Luke 4:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 4:6
6 And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it.
Chapter Context
Luke 4 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, grace, truth. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 4:6
6 And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it.
Analysis
Satan's claim 'to whomsoever I will I give it' asserts authority over earthly kingdoms, a claim Jesus does not dispute. Scripture affirms Satan's current but temporary dominion as 'prince of this world' (John 12:31, 14:30, 16:11). First John 5:19 states 'the whole world lieth in wickedness'—literally 'in the evil one.' Yet Reformed theology maintains God's ultimate sovereignty; Satan operates only by divine permission (Job 1-2). Satan offers Jesus what is already Christ's by right—Psalm 2:8 promises the Father will give the Son 'the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.' The temptation is to grasp immediately what God has promised to give through appointed means. Philippians 2:6-11 contrasts Satan's usurpation with Christ's humble obedience: Jesus did not grasp at equality with God but humbled Himself, therefore God highly exalted Him.
Historical Context
Roman occupation of Judea made messianic expectations intensely political. Most first-century Jews anticipated a military-political Messiah who would liberate Israel from foreign domination and establish God's kingdom with Jerusalem as its capital. The Zealot movement advocated armed rebellion. Satan's offer plays directly into these expectations—immediate political power without the scandal of a crucified Messiah. The Dead Sea Scrolls reveal expectations of a conquering 'Son of God' who would judge the nations. Jesus's rejection of earthly power in favor of the cross would prove a 'stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles' (1 Corinthians 1:23). His kingdom is 'not of this world' (John 18:36), obtained not through Satan's gift but through redemptive suffering.
Reflection
- How should Christians understand Satan's real but limited authority over fallen creation?
- What does Christ's rejection of political power teach about the nature of His kingdom?
- In what ways do we try to claim God's promises without submitting to God's appointed means?
Word Studies
- Glory: δόξα (Doxa) G1391 - Glory, majesty, splendor
Cross-References
- Evil: John 8:44, 1 John 5:19, Revelation 12:9
- Parallel theme: John 12:31, 14:30, 2 Corinthians 11:14, Ephesians 2:2, Revelation 13:2, 13:7