Lutheran Lens Commentary: Matthew 4:1-11

Lutheran Lens Reading of Matthew 4:1-11

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Matthew 4:1-11 through the lens of Law and Gospel, viewing Jesus' temptation as both the Law exposing the reality of human sin and weakness, and the Gospel revealing Christ's victory over these very temptations on our behalf. This passage is not merely an example of moral fortitude but a revelation of Christ's substitutionary triumph over the devil, which He credits to us by grace. Jesus stands in the wilderness as the New Adam, succeeding where the old Adam failed, and His victory is imputed to us through faith alone.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the word 'peirazo' (to tempt or test) is significant. It underscores the devil's role as tempter and the reality of Jesus' humanity, yet His divine nature remains unassailable. The phrase 'It is written' (gegraptai), used by Jesus, emphasizes His reliance on Scripture alone (sola Scriptura) as the authoritative norm, reinforcing our tradition's emphasis on the Word of God as the means by which we resist temptation and receive Christ's victory.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike some Reformed traditions that may emphasize human effort in resisting temptation, we focus on Christ's victory as a gift to us, underscoring the futility of human works apart from grace. Whereas Catholic interpretation might stress the imitation of Christ in overcoming sin, we emphasize the imputation of Christ's righteousness to us through faith, highlighting the forensic nature of justification.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this text, we assure our congregations that Christ's victory over temptation is credited to us by grace through faith, freeing us from the burden of trying to achieve righteousness on our own. We emphasize that the temptations we face are real and expose our sinfulness (Law), yet Christ's triumph is our triumph (Gospel), given to us as a free gift. Our pastoral care should remind the faithful of their baptismal identity, where they are united with Christ's death and resurrection, and thus share in His victory. The congregation should hear that Scripture remains their constant refuge and strength, as it did for Christ, and the sacraments are the means by which this victory is continually delivered to them.

Cross-References: Genesis 3:1-7; Hebrews 4:15-16; Romans 5:18-19; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Ephesians 6:10-17

Doctrinal Connections: Law and Gospel; Theology of the Cross; Simul Justus et Peccator; Sola Scriptura; Justification by Faith Alone