Definition: The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 11:19. It’s a really interesting one packed with meaning! Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is about the value of faith and understanding, and how it can be challenged or misunderstood. It suggests that true wisdom isn't always about being too focused on things – like eating and drinking – but about a deeper, more thoughtful understanding of God’s word and truth. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “The Son of man came eating and drinking…” This is the key image. The "Son of Man" (Jesus) was known for enjoying simple pleasures – eating and drinking. It's a familiar picture, but it's not about excessive indulgence. It’s meant to illustrate that Jesus was also human and relatable. “…and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners.” This is the part where we see the criticism coming from those around him. They're labeling him as someone who is excessively focused on things – drinking too much and eating too much. They’re saying he’s being wasteful or irresponsible. “But wisdom is justified of her children.” This is the crucial part! Jesus isn’t saying that he is flawed. Instead, he's pointing out that true wisdom —the kind that comes from understanding God’s word and principles—is justified (meaning it’s right and valuable). It's not about being reckless or indulging in things – but about seeking truth and living a life aligned with what God has revealed. So, what does this mean practically? The verse is saying: Don’t focus so much on the things that grab your attention – like food, drink, or excessive activity – that you lose sight of the bigger picture. True wisdom comes from understanding and applying God's teachings. It encourages us to prioritize things that truly matter – like spiritual growth, obedience to God's will, and seeking His kingdom. In short, Jesus is urging us to be mindful of our focus and not get carried away with worldly pleasures, but instead seek a deeper understanding of truth and live a life guided by God’s word. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how wisdom is justified? Discuss the significance of this verse within the context of Jesus' teachings?