An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” So he left them and departed.
Matthew 16:4. A wicked and adulterous nation. This passage was explained See page 93 of this volume. under Matthew 12:38. The general meaning is, that the Jews are never satisfied with any signs, but are continually tickled by a wicked desire to tempt God.
The Pharisees and Sadducees, enemies to each other, unite against Christ because His doctrine tears down both their errors and their pride. They demand a sign of their choosing, despising the miracles already given that relieved the sick and sorrowful. They want proof tailored to their vanity, not to truth.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 16:1-4
A wicked and adulterous generation,.... He says the same things here, as he did to the Pharisees on a like occasion, in Mat 12:39. And he left them; as persons hardened, perverse, and incurable, and as unworthy to be conversed with: and departed: to the ship which brought him thither, and went in it to the other side of the sea of Galilee; see Mar 8:13.