Matthew 15:26

It is not meet. That is, it is not fitting or proper or good. Here Christ expresses the characteristic Jewish attitude that the Gentiles were unworthy of the blessings of heaven.

Bread. That is, the “bread” of salvation (see John 6:32) that God had entrusted to the Jews, His “children,” for distribution among the Gentiles, but which the Jews were selfishly hoarding to themselves (see COL 291-293).

Dogs. Gr. kunaria, “little dogs,” here used as a reference to the Gentiles (see on eh. 7:6). The Jews felt the blessings of salvation would be wasted if given to the Gentiles, who, according to the opinion of the Jews, lacked the capacity to appreciate these blessings or to benefit by them. Christ’s assumed attitude of disdain for the woman might conceivably have discouraged her, but undoubtedly He had confidence that her faith would not fail (see 1 Cor. 10:13). She seemed sure that Christ could grant her heart’s desire if only He would (see on Mark 1:40). Pride and prejudice meant nothing to her, and she would not let these deter her. Her faith and perseverance are truly commendable.