Matthew 4:11
Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
Original Language Analysis
Τότε
Then
G5119
Τότε
Then
Strong's:
G5119
Word #:
1 of 12
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 12
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἄγγελοι
angels
G32
ἄγγελοι
angels
Strong's:
G32
Word #:
8 of 12
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
προσῆλθον
came
G4334
προσῆλθον
came
Strong's:
G4334
Word #:
9 of 12
to approach, i.e., (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Matthew 26:53Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?Hebrews 1:14Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?Luke 22:43And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.Luke 4:13And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.Hebrews 1:6And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.Mark 1:13And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him.Matthew 4:6And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.John 14:30Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.Luke 22:53When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.
Historical Context
The angel's ministry likely included physical nourishment after 40 days fasting. This parallels Elijah's angelic provision (1 Kings 19:5-8). Having resisted Satan's provision of bread through compromise, Jesus receives legitimate provision through obedience.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you experience God's ministry after seasons of testing?
- What does Jesus' victory over temptation mean for your own spiritual battles?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The phrase 'Then the devil leaveth him' shows testing has seasons—Satan departed 'for a season' (Luke 4:13), returning in Gethsemane and Calvary. Immediately, 'angels came and ministered unto him' demonstrates the Father's care after faithful endurance. Jesus' victory qualifies Him as our High Priest who understands temptation (Hebrews 4:15) and proves Him the obedient Son where Israel failed.