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Jesus and The Word - Luke 4
Jesus and The Word - Luke 4
Chapter four of Luke is most widely known for Jesus being tempted. This story of the temptation has been used countless times (and probably not enough even then) to show that Jesus solved the problem with an 'It is written' quotation of scripture. The whole chapter, however, shows Jesus’ complete devotion and adherence to the word of God.
Jesus affirmed that the scriptures were the word of God. The written word is still that which comes "from the mouth of God." This was so even though He seemingly quotes the Septuagint translation. This was so even though he lived 1000+ years after the writing of the original. While translation CAN change the meaning if it is a bad translation, a translation that conveys the original truth is still truth.
Jesus affirmed that all of the Word of God is to be understood (see Matthew's more extensive record of Jesus' quote - Matt. 4:4).
Jesus shows that even strong temptation due to severe circumstances did not excuse setting aside the word of God.
Jesus exemplifies the concept of "letting the word of God dwell in you." Dwelling in implies the fact that it is the controlling influence in one's life. It wasn't general bible facts but the specific application of specific scriptures to specific situations in His life that allowed Him to withstand the temptations.
Jesus had broad knowledge of the scriptures as he was able to quote from Deuteronomy, but he also knew the meaning of Isaiah, was able to apply the story of Naaman (2Kings 5) and Elijah (1Kings 17). This is all recorded just in Luke 4!
Jesus illustrates that such knowledge of the word of God was needed by all.
It was His custom to join others in the synagogue gatherings where they read and discussed the scriptures (16, 31, 44).
He joined in the synagogue activities by reading the scripture publicly to them and expounding upon what was read (16).
He was able both to quote scripture (accurately AND to apply it correctly), but he was able to locate it (not an easy task in a scroll of Isaiah!) and to read it (17).
He first applied it to himself (vs. 1-13), but preached it as applicable to others (16f, 31, 43, 44, 5:1, etc.).
If the word of God had such a place in the life of Jesus, should it not also have the same place in our lives? Of course, it should, but does it? It must be read, reread, learned, quoted, preached, and obeyed. Jesus did.
Hugh DeLong
