Matthew 12:42 - Exposition

Almost verbally identical with Luke 11:31 . The queen of the south ( βασίλισσα νότου , anarthrous; Luke 11:41 , note). The south here doubtless represents part of Arabia Felix (see Dr. Lumby, on 1 Kings 10:1 ). Shall rise up . Does ἐγερθήσεται here imply more effort than ἀναστήσονται ( Luke 11:41 )? This would at least be consistent with the energy which the mention of the Queen of Sheba always suggests . In the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts ( the ends , Revised Version) of the earth . Observe the contrast; the message was brought to the Ninevites in their own homes. She marks a higher stage of inquiry and faith. To hear the wisdom of Solomon ; i.e. not out of mere curiosity to see him. And, behold, a greater than Solomon is here ( Luke 11:41 , note). Observe that Christ claims for himself superiority to the one prophet that was listened to by a Gentile nation, and to the one king whose wisdom drew an inquirer from "the ends of the earth." Rightly; for the claim is confirmed by history; the Gospels have had greater influence than all the Prophets, both "former" and "later," and than all the Hekmah literature. Jesus of Nazareth has drawn all men unto him ( John 12:32 ; cf. 19).