8:12 And he {c} sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I say unto you, {d} There shall no sign be given unto this generation.
(c) These sighs came from the centre of his heart for the Lord was very much moved with the great unbelief of these men.
(d) Literally, If a sign be given. It is an abbreviated kind of speech very common among the Hebrews; it is the same as when we say, Let me be taken for a liar, or something similar. And when they speak out the whole, they say, The Lord do such and such by me.
8:11-13 The Pharisees came... seeking from him a sign from heaven. See notes on Mt 16:1-4.
8:12 Mt 16:4.
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?
