Luke 4:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 4:5
5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.
Chapter Context
Luke 4 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, mercy, prayer. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 4:5
5 And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.
Analysis
Satan offers 'all the kingdoms of the world' in exchange for worship, revealing both his temporary dominion over fallen creation and his ultimate aim. The phrase 'delivered unto me' (Greek 'paradedotai moi') contains truth—fallen humanity handed authority to Satan through sin (Romans 5:12). Paul calls Satan 'the god of this world' (2 Corinthians 4:4) and 'the prince of the power of the air' (Ephesians 2:2). Yet Satan's claim exceeds his authority; he is a usurper, not rightful owner. The temptation presents a shortcut to Messianic glory—rulership without suffering, crown without cross. This temptation would recur throughout Jesus's ministry as people sought to make Him king by force (John 6:15). Reformed theology recognizes this as the essence of all false religion: worship of created things (including Satan) rather than the Creator.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kingdoms were often gained through military conquest or political alliance. Satan offers immediate universal dominion without the suffering prophesied in Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22. For a Jewish audience expecting a conquering Messiah who would overthrow Rome, this temptation had powerful appeal. The offer also exposed Satan's motivation—not mere hatred of humanity, but usurpation of worship that belongs to God alone. In showing Jesus 'all the kingdoms' in 'a moment of time,' Satan demonstrated his supernatural ability to transcend normal physical limitations, making the temptation more impressive. Early church fathers saw here Satan's fundamental sin—the proud demand for worship—and Christ's humble submission to the Father's redemptive plan.
Reflection
- How does this temptation expose Satan's ultimate goal in all his schemes?
- In what ways are Christians tempted to pursue godly ends through ungodly means?
- Why must Christ's path to glory necessarily pass through suffering and the cross?
Word Studies
- Kingdom: βασιλεία (Basileia) G932 - Kingdom, reign
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Matthew 4:8
- Evil: Job 20:5, Ephesians 6:12
- Parallel theme: Psalms 73:19, 1 Corinthians 15:52