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Traditional Lens Commentary: Matthew 4:1-11

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Traditional Lens Reading of Matthew 4:1-11

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a profound demonstration of Christ's sinless nature and His role as the second Adam. In Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil, showing His submission to the Father’s will and His fulfillment of Israel's history. Unlike Israel, who failed in the desert, Christ succeeds, highlighting His righteousness that is imputed to us in justification by faith. This passage assures us of Jesus' victory over sin and Satan, underscoring His qualification as the perfect Savior.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the term 'peirazō' (to tempt/test) is crucial, as it highlights that Jesus underwent real temptations, yet without sin, affirming His impeccability. The use of 'gegraptai' (it is written) emphasizes the authority of Scripture, as Jesus counters each temptation with the Word of God, demonstrating the sufficiency and power of the Scriptures in spiritual warfare. We emphasize this as a model for believers’ reliance on the Word.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from liberal theology, which might view this passage as mythological or symbolic, downplaying the historicity and literal nature of Jesus' temptations. In contrast, we affirm the historical and literal reality of these events, which are foundational for understanding Christ's sinless obedience. Additionally, unlike some sacramental traditions that might see this as pointing to a mystical union with Christ, we emphasize Christ's active obedience as the basis for our justification.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we must emphasize the victory of Christ over temptation as a source of hope and encouragement for believers facing trials. This text instructs us to rely on the Word of God in our spiritual battles, just as Christ did. We should remind our congregation of the assurance of salvation, grounded in Jesus' perfect obedience and the imputation of His righteousness. The congregation should walk away with a renewed commitment to Scripture and confidence in Christ's sufficiency in overcoming sin in their lives.

Cross-References: Genesis 3:1-7; Deuteronomy 8:2-3; Isaiah 53:11; Romans 5:12-19; Hebrews 4:15

Doctrinal Connections: the authority of Scripture; the sinlessness of Christ; substitutionary atonement; justification by faith; the role of the Holy Spirit in sanctification

Topics & Themes

the authority of Scripturethe sinlessness of Christsubstitutionary atonementjustification by faiththe role of the Holy Spirit in sanctification

Scripture References

Matthew 4:1-11

Best Used In

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Audience

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