Matthew 4:3 Commentary

Verse: "And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread."

Introduction

In Matthew 4:3, we encounter a pivotal moment in the Synoptic Gospels—the temptation of Jesus. This event highlights not only the character of Christ but also the nature of temptation and the response that believers should exhibit in the face of various trials. The temptation comes from the "tempter," a designation that underscores the adversarial nature of Satan. This commentary synthesizes insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, aiming to provide a meaningful reflection for pastors, students, and scholars alike.

The Tempter's Approach

The term "tempter" (Greek: πειράζων) indicates one who tests or entices. Matthew Henry emphasizes that the tempter seeks to exploit our vulnerabilities, particularly when we are isolated or struggling. Jesus, after fasting for forty days, is physically weakened, making Him an opportune target for Satan's schemes. Here, we learn that temptation often comes most acutely when we are least able to resist.

Albert Barnes notes that the approach of the tempter is subtle and strategic: he begins with a question that casts doubt on Jesus' identity—"If thou be the Son of God." This rhetorical question aims to instill uncertainty about Jesus’ divine status. It reflects a common tactic of the enemy, attempting to shake the foundation of one's faith and identity.

The Challenge of Identity

The challenge presented by the tempter is rooted in the affirmation of Jesus as the Son of God. Adam Clarke highlights that this question not only tests Jesus’ identity but simultaneously challenges His authority and mission. By commanding stones to become bread, the tempter insinuates that Jesus should prove His divinity through miraculous acts to satisfy immediate needs. This temptation invites a powerful reflection on how identity influences actions and decisions.

Spiritual Significance of the Stones

The command to "turn these stones into bread" carries deeper spiritual implications. Stones represent the world’s hardness and the carnal mindset. Matthew Henry contrasts this with the bread of heaven—spiritual nourishment. In this light, the temptation reflects the struggle between physical sustenance and spiritual fulfillment. Jesus, representing the ideal believer, prioritizes the latter, teaching us that spiritual nourishment often takes precedence over physical needs.

Addressing Human Weakness

Albert Barnes points out that the tempter not only exploits Jesus' bodily hunger but human appetite itself. All humans endure physical and emotional needs, and in moments of weakness, the potential for succumbing to temptation rises. This passage invites reflection on how personal struggles may serve as gateways for temptation and emphasizes the necessity for vigilance during times of trial.

Response to Temptation

The effectiveness of the tempter relies on how Jesus responds. Adam Clarke underscores that the response is not merely verbal; it signifies an implicit rejection of the challenge to His identity and mission. Instead of performing a miraculous sign to satisfy the tempter, Jesus counters with Scripture, highlighting the need for spiritual grounding. His response serves as a model for all believers, illustrating the power of the Word of God in confronting temptation.

The Broader Context

Matthew Henry provides insight into the broader context of this temptation within the narrative of Jesus’ ministry. This temptation occurs right after His baptism, emphasizing that spiritual warfare often follows moments of divine affirmation. For pastors and leaders, this serves as a timely reminder of the need for preparedness in the face of spiritual opposition, particularly following significant achievements or experiences.

Lessons for Today's Believers

• The Importance of Identity: Understanding our identity as children of God is vital in resisting temptation. We are called to roots in our divine status, which empowers us against doubts and challenges.
• Defense Against Temptation: Engaging with Scripture is essential for spiritual strength. Just as Jesus utilized the Word, so must believers immerse themselves in Scripture to cultivate resilience against temptations.
• Focus on Spiritual over Physical: While physical needs are real, prioritizing spiritual nourishment over immediate gratification is crucial. True sustenance is found in a relationship with God rather than mere earthly pleasures.
• Preparedness in Prayer: Jesus’ preparation through fasting indicates the need for believers to be spiritually prepared through prayer and spiritual disciplines to withstand trials and testing.

Conclusion

In summarizing Matthew 4:3, we acknowledge the ongoing relevance of this passage for contemporary believers. The interaction between Jesus and the tempter reveals profound truths about identity, temptation, and the nature of reliance on God's Word. As churches seek to instruct congregations in navigating temptations, this lesson from scripture serves as a reminder that we must firmly establish ourselves in our identity as children of God, arming ourselves with the scriptures and prioritizing spiritual over physical needs.