And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and to morrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.
And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox (that crafty, cruel enemy of God's innocent servants), Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected - or, finish My course, attain completion. 'Plot on and ply thy wiles; I also have My plans; My works of mercy are nearing completion, but some yet remain; I have work for today and tomorrow too, and the third day; by that time I shall be where his jurisdiction reaches not; the guilt of My blood shall not lie at his door; that dark deed is reserved for others.' He does not say, as Bengel remarks, I preach the Gospel-that would have made little impression upon Herod. In the light of the merciful character of Christ's actions the malice of Herod's snares is laid bare.