Luke 4:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 4:2
2 Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.
Chapter Context
Luke 4 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, grace, fellowship. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 4:2
2 Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.
Analysis
Jesus was tempted 'forty days' and 'did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.' The 40-day period parallels Moses' 40 days on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:28) and Elijah's 40-day journey to Horeb (1 Kings 19:8). Jesus' fasting demonstrates His complete dependence on God and His prioritization of spiritual sustenance over physical. The note that He 'hungered' afterward emphasizes His genuine humanity—He experienced real physical need and vulnerability, making His temptation genuine, not playacting. Yet even in weakness, He resisted sin.
Historical Context
Fasting was an established Jewish spiritual discipline for seeking God, expressing repentance, and preparing for divine encounter. Moses and Elijah's supernatural fasts (40 days without food or water) were exceptional, marking them as unique prophets. Jesus' fast placed Him in this prophetic tradition. The detail that hunger came 'when they were ended' suggests supernatural sustenance during the 40 days, similar to Moses and Elijah. This established Jesus as the ultimate prophet who mediates God's word more perfectly than even Moses or Elijah.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' 40-day fast parallel Moses and Elijah, establishing Him as the ultimate prophet and mediator?
- What does Jesus' genuine hunger after fasting teach about the reality of His human nature and His temptation?
Cross-References
- Evil: Deuteronomy 9:18
- Parallel theme: Exodus 34:28, Deuteronomy 9:9, 1 Kings 19:8, John 4:6, Hebrews 2:18, 4:15