Luke 4:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 4:12
12 And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Chapter Context
Luke 4 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, mercy, wisdom. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-44: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 4:12
12 And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Analysis
And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Jesus counters Scripture with Scripture, quoting Deuteronomy 6:16 which recalls Israel's failure at Massah (Exodus 17:7). The verb ekpeiraseis (ἐκπειράσεις, you shall not tempt/test) means to test with hostile intent or to demand proof, challenging God's faithfulness. The phrase Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God (ouk ekpeiraseis Kyrion ton Theon sou, οὐκ ἐκπειράσεις Κύριον τὸν Θεόν σου) establishes a fundamental principle: faith trusts God without demanding miraculous validation.
Jesus' response reveals the proper hermeneutical principle: Scripture interprets Scripture. While Psalm 91 promises angelic protection, Deuteronomy 6:16 prohibits testing God. Both are true; neither should be used to contradict the other. Satan's error was isolating one promise from the comprehensive biblical witness. Jesus demonstrates that genuine faith rests confidently in God's character without demanding signs. This is the opposite of Israel's wilderness failure when they demanded proof of God's presence and provision (Exodus 17:2-7). Where Israel failed through unbelief demanding signs, Jesus succeeds through obedient trust in God's word.
Historical Context
At Massah (meaning 'testing'), Israel demanded Moses provide water, essentially testing whether God was truly among them (Exodus 17:7). This rebellion represented covenant unfaithfulness—God had just delivered them from Egypt, divided the Red Sea, and provided manna, yet they demanded further proof. Deuteronomy 6:16 commanded Israel never to repeat this sin. Jesus' quotation identifies Satan's temptation as equivalent to Israel's wilderness rebellion. The principle applies broadly: Christians should not presume on God's promises by deliberately creating crises expecting miraculous rescue. True faith obeys God's revealed will and trusts His providence without demanding spectacular interventions.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' use of Deuteronomy 6:16 demonstrate the principle that Scripture interprets Scripture?
- What is the difference between trusting God's promises and testing God by demanding He prove Himself?
- In what ways might you be guilty of testing God rather than walking in simple obedience and trust?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Matthew 4:7
- References God: Deuteronomy 6:16, Malachi 3:15
- Parallel theme: Psalms 95:9, 1 Corinthians 10:9