Matthew 6:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 6:13
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Chapter Context
Matthew 6 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of hope, prayer, love. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
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 21-34: 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 Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 6:13
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Analysis
The prayer concludes with two petitions: 'And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil' (Greek: μὴ εἰσενέγκῃς ἡμᾶς εἰς πειρασμόν, 'do not bring us into testing'). The first petition seems problematic since James 1:13 states God doesn't tempt anyone. Better understood as 'do not allow us to enter into testing' or 'lead us away from temptation.' This acknowledges human weakness and need for divine protection from situations exceeding our spiritual strength. 'Deliver us from evil' (ῥῦσαι ἡμᾶς ἀπὸ τοῦ πονηροῦ) could mean 'from evil' generally or 'from the evil one' (Satan) specifically. Both interpretations are valid - rescue from sin's power and Satan's schemes.
Historical Context
Jewish prayers often included petitions for protection from sin and evil. The Kaddish prayer similarly focuses on God's name being sanctified and His kingdom coming. Early manuscripts vary on the concluding doxology ('For thine is the kingdom...'), which appears to be liturgical addition reflecting early Christian worship practices. Testing/temptation (πειρασμός) in Jewish thought could refer both to trials proving faithfulness and enticements to sin. The prayer acknowledges both dimensions.
Reflection
- How does this petition balance human responsibility to resist temptation with dependence on God's protection?
- What is the relationship between avoiding temptation situations and developing spiritual strength through trials?
- In what areas of life do you most need God's deliverance from evil's influence?
Word Studies
- Glory: δόξα (Doxa) G1391 - Glory, majesty, splendor
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Matthew 6:10, 1 Chronicles 29:11, Psalms 47:7
- Evil: Jeremiah 15:21, John 17:15, 2 Thessalonians 3:3
- Glory: Revelation 19:1
- Parallel theme: Matthew 26:41, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 2 Peter 2:9