New Testament
Matthew 21:16
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"Do you hear what these children are saying?" they demanded. Jesus replied, "Yes. Haven't you ever read, 'Out of the mouth of babes and nursing babies you have perfected praise'?"
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And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?
What Matthew 21:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the religious leaders question Jesus about the praises being sung by children in the temple. They are upset that Jesus accepts this praise, as they believe it undermines their authority. Jesus responds by quoting Scripture, highlighting that God can use even the simplest and most innocent voices to offer genuine praise. This emphasizes that true worship can come from unexpected sources, and that God values the sincerity of heart over the status or wisdom of the speaker. The reference to 'babes and sucklings' suggests that faith and praise do not require sophistication; rather, they can be pure and heartfelt, reflecting a deep connection to God. This moment illustrates Jesus' authority and the idea that God's kingdom is accessible to all, including the humble and innocent.
How to apply Matthew 21:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and appreciate the genuine expressions of faith, even from those who may seem insignificant. It reminds us that everyone, regardless of age or status, can contribute to worship and that God values sincerity over sophistication in our praise.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Clearing the Temple (Matthew 21:12–17)
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Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 21:16 mean?
Matthew 21:16 shows Jesus responding to religious leaders who question the praises sung by children in the temple. He quotes Scripture to illustrate that God values praise from even the simplest and most innocent voices, emphasizing that true worship can come from unexpected sources.
What is the significance of 'babes and sucklings' in Matthew 21:16?
The phrase 'babes and sucklings' in Matthew 21:16 highlights that faith and praise do not require sophistication. It suggests that God appreciates pure and heartfelt worship, regardless of the age or status of the person offering it.
How does Matthew 21:16 relate to worship?
Matthew 21:16 illustrates that worship can come from anyone, including children, and that God values the sincerity of the heart over the status of the worshiper. It encourages believers to appreciate all forms of genuine praise.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 21:16?
From Matthew 21:16, we learn that everyone, regardless of age or status, can contribute to worship. It teaches us to recognize and value sincere expressions of faith, reminding us that true praise comes from the heart.
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