8:11 {1} And the Pharisees {b} came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him.
(1) The stubborn enemies of the doctrine of the Gospel, giving no credit to the miracles already done, require new ones: but Christ, being angry with them, utterly forsakes them.
(b) A common saying which the Hebrews use, by which is meant that the Pharisees went from their houses to purposely engage him.
8:11-13 The Pharisees came... seeking from him a sign from heaven. See notes on Mt 16:1-4.
8:11 Tempting him - That is, trying to ensnare him. Mt 16:1.
8:11-21 Obstinate unbelief will have something to say, though ever so unreasonable. Christ refused to answer their demand. If they will not be convinced, they shall not. Alas! what cause we have to lament for those around us, who destroy themselves and others by their perverse and obstinate unbelief, and enmity to the gospel! When we forget the works of God, and distrust him, we should chide ourselves severely, as Christ here reproves his disciples. How is it that we so often mistake his meaning, disregard his warnings, and distrust his providence?
