Matthew 4:11

Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

Then {G5119} the devil {G1228} leaveth {G863} him {G846}, and {G2532}, behold {G2400}, angels {G32} came {G4334} and {G2532} ministered {G1247} unto him {G846}.

Then the Adversary let him alone, and angels came and took care of him.

Then the devil left Him, and angels came and ministered to Him.

Then the devil leaveth him; and behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

Commentary

Context

This pivotal verse marks the triumphant conclusion of Jesus' forty-day fast and intense period of temptation in the wilderness by the devil, as detailed in Matthew 4:1-10. Having victoriously rebuffed each of Satan's cunning assaults with direct quotes from scripture, Jesus had just issued a command for the devil to depart: "Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve" (Matthew 4:10). Matthew 4:11 describes the immediate divine response to Jesus' unwavering faithfulness and obedience, signifying His readiness to commence His public ministry.

Key Themes

  • Victory Over Temptation: The verse powerfully illustrates Jesus' complete triumph over the devil's most insidious attempts to derail His mission. It underscores that even in a state of physical weakness after prolonged fasting, spiritual fortitude through God's Word leads to absolute victory.
  • Divine Vindication and Provision: Immediately after Satan's departure, God sends His angels to attend to Jesus' needs. This swift divine intervention highlights God's faithful care for His obedient Son and serves as a testament to His willingness to provide for those who endure trials and stand firm in faith.
  • Angelic Ministry: The arrival of angels to "minister unto him" showcases their role as God's servants and messengers. They often provide comfort, strength, and practical assistance to God's people in times of need, reinforcing the biblical truth that angels are ministering spirits sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation.
  • The Devil's Retreat: While the devil leaves, it's important to note this is a retreat, not a final defeat. Luke's parallel account states the devil "departed from him for a season" (Luke 4:13), indicating that future spiritual conflicts would arise, though none would ultimately succeed against Jesus.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "ministered" is diakoneล (ฮดฮนฮฑฮบฮฟฮฝฮญฯ‰). This term implies active, practical service, often involving attending to needs such as food, drink, or comfort. It's the root of the English word "deacon." In this context, it suggests the angels provided restorative care to Jesus after His physically and spiritually exhausting ordeal, perhaps bringing Him sustenance or simply offering encouragement and strength.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound encouragement for believers facing their own spiritual battles and temptations:

  • God's Presence After Trials: It assures us that after enduring intense spiritual warfare or periods of hardship, God's comfort and provision are often manifested. Just as Jesus was ministered to, we can expect divine help and restoration when we remain faithful.
  • The Power of God's Word: Jesus' victory was secured by His unwavering reliance on and quoting of scripture. This emphasizes the Bible's indispensable role as our primary weapon against temptation and spiritual attack.
  • Divine Support in Weakness: Even when we feel most vulnerable, God provides supernatural strength and assistance. We are not left to fight our battles alone; God dispatches His resources, including His angels, to support those who stand firm in Him.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 26:53

    Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

  • Hebrews 1:14

    Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

  • Luke 22:43

    And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.

  • Luke 4:13

    And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.

  • Revelation 5:11

    And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

  • Revelation 5:12

    Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

  • Matthew 28:2

    And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
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