Children of the.
The Lord was the Bridegroom, and while He was on earth the 'sons' (companions, friends) of the bridechamber could not mourn nor fast; but in His absence they would do so. Mt 9:15; Mr 2:19; Lu 5:34. The friend of the Bridegroom (to whom John the Baptist likened himself) is spoken of in distinction from the bride herself. Joh 3:29.
Jesus said to them, "Can the groomsmen act sadly while the groom is still with them? But the time will come when the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.
Jesus answered them, "Can the companions of the groom fast while the groom is still with them? As long as they have the groom with them they cannot fast.
Jesus answered them, "Can you force the companions of the groom to fast while the groom is [still] with them?
The one who has the bride is the groom; but the best man, who stands up with him and listens to him [take his vows], is very happy when he hears him speak. So, [now] my joy is complete [i.e. over hearing about Jesus' ministry].