The Temptation of Christ and the Call to Discipleship: Unpacking Matthew 4

Executive Summary ✨

Matthew 4, a pivotal chapter in the Gospel, unveils the intense spiritual warfare faced by Jesus immediately after His baptism. Led by the Holy Spirit, He confronts Satan’s temptations in the wilderness, emerging victorious and demonstrating the power of God’s Word. This chapter also marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, as He calls His first disciples, promising to transform them into “fishers of men.” This call resonates profoundly with us today, urging us to surrender our lives to Christ and embrace the transformative journey of discipleship. Through examining this chapter, we gain invaluable insights into resisting temptation, understanding God’s will, and answering the call to serve. The **temptation of Christ and the call to discipleship** shape the foundation of Christian faith and practice, presenting a model for enduring trials and leading others to salvation.

Matthew 4 opens a window into the very core of our faith, showcasing both the vulnerability and unwavering strength of Jesus. It’s a chapter filled with paradox: the divine Son of God tempted, the solitary figure surrounded by spiritual forces, and the humble beginnings of a movement that would transform the world. This chapter offers a powerful lesson on spiritual warfare and the transformative power of obedience.

Commentary Sections

Matthew 4:1-2: The Wilderness and the Fast

Matthew 4:1-2 (KJV): Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Τότε ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἀνήχθη εἰς τὴν ἔρημον ὑπὸ τοῦ πνεύματος πειρασθῆναι ὑπὸ τοῦ διαβόλου. καὶ νηστεύσας ἡμέρας τεσσαράκοντα καὶ νύκτας τεσσαράκοντα ὕστερον ἐπείνασεν.

Jesus, fresh from His baptism and the affirmation of the Father, is immediately led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness. This isn’t a random occurrence; it’s a deliberate act of preparation. The wilderness, a place of isolation and hardship, mirrors the spiritual battleground where faith is tested. The forty-day fast echoes the fasts of Moses (Exodus 34:28) and Elijah (1 Kings 19:8), connecting Jesus to the prophetic tradition of Israel. His subsequent hunger makes Him susceptible to temptation, highlighting His humanity.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius writes, “Δεῖ γὰρ ἡμᾶς μιμεῖσθαι τὸν Χριστὸν, ἵνα νικήσωμεν τὸν διάβολον.” (Contra Arianos, PG 26.529) “For we must imitate Christ, that we may conquer the devil.” This highlights the importance of spiritual discipline and following Christ’s example in resisting temptation.

Spiritual Application: We, too, face wilderness experiences in our lives – times of testing, isolation, and spiritual dryness. Like Jesus, we must rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us through these trials, using prayer and fasting as spiritual weapons. Consider how times of difficulty can actually be opportunities for spiritual growth and dependence on God.

Matthew 4:3-4: The First Temptation: Turning Stones into Bread

Matthew 4:3-4 (KJV): And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Καὶ προσελθὼν ὁ πειράζων εἶπεν αὐτῷ· Εἰ υἱὸς εἶ τοῦ θεοῦ, εἰπὲ ἵνα οἱ λίθοι οὗτοι ἄρτοι γένωνται. Ὁ δὲ ἀποκριθεὶς εἶπεν· Γέγραπται· Οὐκ ἐπ’ ἄρτῳ μόνῳ ζήσεται ὁ ἄνθρωπος, ἀλλὰ ἐπὶ παντὶ ῥήματι ἐκπορευομένῳ διὰ στόματος θεοῦ.

The devil cunningly attacks Jesus’ identity and physical need. He questions, “If thou be the Son of God…” aiming to plant doubt. The temptation to turn stones into bread appeals to a basic human instinct – survival. However, Jesus responds with Scripture (Deuteronomy 8:3), affirming that true life comes not just from physical sustenance, but from obedience to God’s Word.

Historical Context: The wilderness of Judea is a harsh, arid environment. The availability of food would be a constant concern. The devil is preying on Jesus’ legitimate need in a vulnerable moment. This is similar to how we often justify wrong actions based on genuine needs.

Spiritual Application: We are constantly tempted to prioritize physical comfort and material possessions over spiritual nourishment. Jesus teaches us that true fulfillment lies in seeking God’s will and obeying His Word. Are we prioritizing our spiritual diet, or are we starving ourselves with worldly pursuits? We can help with your online growth by offering affordable WordPress hosting.

Matthew 4:5-7: The Second Temptation: Casting Himself Down from the Temple

Matthew 4:5-7 (KJV): Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Τότε παραλαμβάνει αὐτὸν ὁ διάβολος εἰς τὴν ἁγίαν πόλιν καὶ ἵστησιν αὐτὸν ἐπὶ τὸ πτερύγιον τοῦ ἱεροῦ καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ· Εἰ υἱὸς εἶ τοῦ θεοῦ, βάλε σεαυτὸν κάτω· γέγραπται γὰρ ὅτι τοῖς ἀγγέλοις αὐτοῦ ἐντελεῖται περὶ σοῦ καὶ ἐπὶ χειρῶν ἀροῦσίν σε, μήποτε προσκόψῃς πρὸς λίθον τὸν πόδα σου. Ἔφη αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Πάλιν γέγραπται· Οὐκ ἐκπειράσεις κύριον τὸν θεόν σου.

The devil now elevates the stakes, taking Jesus to the pinnacle of the Temple in Jerusalem. This temptation appeals to pride and a desire for validation. The devil even misquotes Scripture (Psalm 91:11-12), twisting it to suggest that God will automatically intervene to prevent any harm. Jesus counters with another verse (Deuteronomy 6:16), emphasizing that we should not presumptuously test God’s power or demand miracles to prove His faithfulness.

Geographical Context: The Temple was the center of Jewish religious life. The pinnacle would be a highly visible spot, making the temptation about public display and validation. This temptation plays on the desire for recognition and power.

Spiritual Application: We are often tempted to seek attention and approval from others, even to the point of manipulating situations or using spiritual gifts for selfish gain. Jesus reminds us that true faith is not about demanding signs or testing God, but about humbly trusting in His wisdom and timing. Avoid spiritual pride and the temptation to use faith for personal gain.

Matthew 4:8-10: The Third Temptation: Worshiping Satan for Worldly Power

Matthew 4:8-10 (KJV): Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Πάλιν παραλαμβάνει αὐτὸν ὁ διάβολος εἰς ὄρος ὑψηλὸν λίαν καὶ δείκνυσιν αὐτῷ πάσας τὰς βασιλείας τοῦ κόσμου καὶ τὴν δόξαν αὐτῶν καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ· Ταῦτα πάντα σοι δώσω, ἐὰν πεσὼν προσκυνήσῃς μοι. Τότε λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Ὕπαγε, Σατανᾶ· γέγραπται γάρ· Κύριον τὸν θεόν σου προσκυνήσεις καὶ αὐτῷ μόνῳ λατρεύσεις.

In the final temptation, the devil offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship. This is the ultimate test: to choose between worldly power and allegiance to God. Jesus decisively rejects the offer, quoting Deuteronomy 6:13 and commanding Satan to depart. He reaffirms that worship belongs to God alone.

Biblical Connection: This temptation mirrors the temptation faced by Israel in the wilderness, where they were tempted to worship idols instead of God. Jesus, as the new Israel, remains faithful.

Spiritual Application: We are constantly bombarded with opportunities to compromise our values for worldly success and recognition. Jesus teaches us that true loyalty belongs to God, and that we must resist the temptation to prioritize earthly power over eternal principles. Examine your own heart: What worldly “kingdoms” are you tempted to pursue at the expense of your relationship with God?

Matthew 4:11: The Angels Minister

Matthew 4:11 (KJV): Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Τότε ἀφίησιν αὐτὸν ὁ διάβολος, καὶ ἰδοὺ ἄγγελοι προσῆλθον καὶ διηκόνουν αὐτῷ.

After Jesus’ unwavering faithfulness, the devil departs, and angels come to minister to Him. This is a powerful reminder that God rewards obedience and provides comfort and strength in times of need. The angels’ ministry signifies divine affirmation and support.

Spiritual Application: Though we may not always see them, God’s angels are often at work on our behalf, providing protection and guidance. Trust that God will provide for your needs, both physical and spiritual, especially after periods of intense spiritual battle. Be open to receiving His grace and support in unexpected ways.

Matthew 4:12-17: Jesus Begins His Ministry in Galilee

Matthew 4:12-17 (KJV): Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Ἀκούσας δὲ ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὅτι Ἰωάννης παρεδόθη, ἀνεχώρησεν εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν, καὶ καταλιπὼν τὴν Ναζαρὲτ ἐλθὼν κατῴκησεν εἰς Καφαρναοὺμ τὴν παραθαλασσίαν ἐν ὁρίοις Ζαβουλὼν καὶ Νεφθαλείμ, ἵνα πληρωθῇ τὸ ῥηθὲν διὰ Ἠσαΐου τοῦ προφήτου λέγοντος· Γῆ Ζαβουλὼν καὶ γῆ Νεφθαλείμ, ὁδὸν θαλάσσης πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου, Γαλιλαία τῶν ἐθνῶν, ὁ λαὸς ὁ καθήμενος ἐν σκότει εἶδεν φῶς μέγα, καὶ τοῖς καθημένοις ἐν χώρᾳ καὶ σκιᾷ θανάτου φῶς ἀνέτειλεν αὐτοῖς. Ἀπὸ τότε ἤρξατο ὁ Ἰησοῦς κηρύσσειν καὶ λέγειν· Μετανοεῖτε· ἤγγικεν γὰρ ἡ βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν.

Jesus relocates to Galilee, specifically Capernaum, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah (Isaiah 9:1-2). This area, often overlooked and considered “Galilee of the Gentiles,” becomes the focal point of His ministry. Jesus’ message of repentance and the nearness of the Kingdom of Heaven signals a new era of hope and salvation.

Historical Context: Galilee was a region with a diverse population, including many non-Jews. It was considered less religiously pure than Judea. Jesus intentionally chose to minister in a place often overlooked, demonstrating God’s love for all people, regardless of their background.

Spiritual Application: God often uses the unexpected and overlooked places to reveal His glory. Be open to seeing God at work in unconventional ways and in unlikely people. The call to repentance is a constant invitation to turn away from sin and embrace God’s transforming grace. Where is God calling you to shine His light, even in the “Galilees” of your life?

Matthew 4:18-22: The Calling of the First Disciples

Matthew 4:18-22 (KJV): And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Περιπατῶν δὲ παρὰ τὴν θάλασσαν τῆς Γαλιλαίας εἶδεν δύο ἀδελφούς, Σίμωνα τὸν λεγόμενον Πέτρον καὶ Ἀνδρέαν τὸν ἀδελφὸν αὐτοῦ βάλλοντας ἀμφίβληστρον εἰς τὴν θάλασσαν· ἦσαν γὰρ ἁλιεῖς. καὶ λέγει αὐτοῖς· Δεῦτε ὀπίσω μου, καὶ ποιήσω ὑμᾶς ἁλιεῖς ἀνθρώπων. οἱ δὲ εὐθέως ἀφέντες τὰ δίκτυα ἠκολούθησαν αὐτῷ. καὶ προβὰς ἐκεῖθεν εἶδεν ἄλλους δύο ἀδελφούς, Ἰάκωβον τὸν τοῦ Ζεβεδαίου καὶ Ἰωάννην τὸν ἀδελφὸν αὐτοῦ ἐν τῷ πλοίῳ μετὰ Ζεβεδαίου τοῦ πατρὸς αὐτῶν καταρτίζοντας τὰ δίκτυα, καὶ ἐκάλεσεν αὐτούς. οἱ δὲ εὐθέως ἀφέντες τὸ πλοῖον καὶ τὸν πατέρα αὐτῶν ἠκολούθησαν αὐτῷ.

Jesus calls Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him. These ordinary fishermen are immediately responsive, leaving their livelihoods and families to become His disciples. The phrase “fishers of men” signifies their new mission: to spread the Gospel and draw others to Christ.

Environmental Context: The Sea of Galilee was a vital source of livelihood for the people of the region. Fishing was a common occupation. By calling fishermen, Jesus was choosing people with practical skills and a willingness to work hard. It highlights the simplicity and accessibility of Jesus’ message.

Spiritual Application: Jesus calls us to a radical commitment, even if it means leaving behind our comfort zones and familiar routines. Are you willing to answer Jesus’ call, even if it requires sacrifice? What “nets” are you clinging to that prevent you from fully following Him? How can you become a “fisher of men” in your own sphere of influence?

Matthew 4:23-25: Jesus’ Ministry of Teaching, Preaching, and Healing

Matthew 4:23-25 (KJV): And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.

Original Greek (Nestle 1904): Καὶ περιῆγεν ὅλην τὴν Γαλιλαίαν διδάσκων ἐν ταῖς συναγωγαῖς αὐτῶν καὶ κηρύσσων τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τῆς βασιλείας καὶ θεραπεύων πᾶσαν νόσον καὶ πᾶσαν μαλακίαν ἐν τῷ λαῷ. καὶ ἀπῆλθεν ἡ ἀκοὴ αὐτοῦ εἰς ὅλην τὴν Συρίαν, καὶ προσήνεγκαν αὐτῷ πάντας τοὺς κακῶς ἔχοντας ποικίλαις νόσοις καὶ βασάνοις συνεχομένους, δαιμονιζομένους καὶ σεληνιαζομένους καὶ παραλυτικούς, καὶ ἐθεράπευσεν αὐτούς. καὶ ἠκολούθησαν αὐτῷ ὄχλοι πολλοὶ ἀπὸ τῆς Γαλιλαίας καὶ Δεκαπόλεως καὶ Ἱεροσολύμων καὶ Ἰουδαίας καὶ πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου.

Jesus’ ministry is characterized by teaching, preaching, and healing. He proclaims the Gospel of the Kingdom, bringing hope and restoration to those afflicted with sickness, disease, and demonic oppression. His fame spreads throughout the region, drawing large crowds from diverse backgrounds.

Spiritual Application: As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His ministry by sharing the Gospel, teaching God’s Word, and ministering to the needs of others. This includes both physical and spiritual healing. Are you actively seeking opportunities to share the love and compassion of Christ with those around you? How can you be a vessel of healing and hope in your community?

Subtopic: Resisting Temptation Like Christ 🕊️

Jesus’ victory over temptation provides a model for our own spiritual battles. Here are some key reflections on how to resist temptation like Christ:

• Know Scripture: Jesus consistently used Scripture to counter the devil’s temptations. Memorizing and meditating on God’s Word is crucial for spiritual defense.
• Rely on the Holy Spirit: Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness and empowered by the Spirit to resist temptation. We need to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength.
• Recognize the Devil’s Tactics: The devil uses deception, doubt, and distortion to tempt us. Be aware of his strategies and remain vigilant.
• Prioritize Spiritual Nourishment: Jesus affirmed that “man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Prioritize your spiritual diet through prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship.
• Submit to God’s Will: Jesus ultimately submitted to the Father’s will, even in the face of intense temptation. Surrender your desires and ambitions to God’s plan for your life.
• Seek Accountability: While Jesus faced temptation alone, we are not meant to fight our battles in isolation. Seek support from trusted friends, mentors, or spiritual leaders.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why was Jesus tempted if He was God?

A: Jesus, while fully God, also took on human flesh. His temptation demonstrates His identification with our struggles and His ability to overcome temptation as a human, setting an example for us. It proves that temptation, while powerful, does not have to lead to sin.

Q: What does it mean to be “fishers of men”?

A: This phrase signifies the calling to share the Gospel and draw others into a relationship with Christ. Just as fishermen use nets to catch fish, we are called to use our words, actions, and gifts to share the good news and invite people to follow Jesus.

Q: How can I apply the lessons of Matthew 4 to my daily life?

A: By studying Scripture, praying for guidance, recognizing temptation’s tactics, and prioritizing your relationship with God. Actively seek opportunities to serve others, share your faith, and live a life that reflects Christ’s teachings. Embrace challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth.

Q: How do the Deuterocanonical books add to understanding the chapter?

A: While Matthew 4 draws directly from the Old Testament, understanding the wider context of Jewish wisdom literature, found in the Deuterocanonical books, helps us appreciate the subtlety of temptation and the importance of relying on divine wisdom. Books like Sirach and Wisdom offer deep insights into resisting evil and pursuing righteousness, complementing the lessons found in Matthew’s account. These texts provide additional philosophical and ethical frameworks for navigating the challenges of life and remaining steadfast in faith.

Conclusion

Matthew 4 offers a profound lesson on the **temptation of Christ and the call to discipleship**, and stands as a testament to Jesus’ unwavering obedience and the transformative power of discipleship. Jesus’ victory over temptation demonstrates that with God’s help, we too can resist the allure of sin and remain faithful to His calling. The call to discipleship isn’t a passive invitation; it’s an active call to surrender, to follow, and to become “fishers of men.” As we reflect on this chapter, let us commit to emulating Jesus’ example, embracing the challenges of discipleship, and shining His light in a world desperately in need of hope. May we never underestimate the power of God’s Word and the transformative potential of a life fully surrendered to Him.

Tags

Matthew 4, Temptation of Jesus, Call of Disciples, Spiritual Warfare, Galilee, Repentance, Scripture, Holiness, Discipleship, Coptic Orthodox Theology

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Explore Matthew 4: The Temptation of Jesus and the Call to Discipleship. A verse-by-verse Coptic Orthodox commentary revealing spiritual insights and practical applications for modern life.