What does Matthew 4:11 mean?
Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him. Matthew 4:11
Explanation
Matthew 4:11 concludes the account of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness by Satan. After resisting three temptations, Jesus is left by Satan. This departure signifies that the devil has ended his attempt to lead Jesus away from his divine mission. The phrase “behold, angels came and ministered unto him” indicates that angels arrived to attend to Jesus’ needs. This act of ministering suggests care and comfort provided by these heavenly beings after the intense period of fasting and temptation Jesus experienced.
Historical Context
Matthew 4:1-11 describes the event of Jesus’ temptation, which takes place immediately after his baptism by John the Baptist. The narrative is situated in the Judaean Desert, where Jesus fasts for 40 days and nights. The number 40 is significant in Jewish history; it echoes the 40 years of Israelites wandering in the desert and the 40-day fasts of Moses and Elijah. The Gospel according to Matthew was written to a Jewish-Christian audience, so these parallels would resonate with them, underlining Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and figures.
Theological Insights
Different Christian traditions have interpreted this verse to emphasize various theological points:
- Victory over Temptation: Shows that Jesus has authority over Satan and is without sin, reinforcing his qualification as the perfect sacrifice for mankind’s sins.
- Role of Angels: Highlights the ministering role of angels as servants of God and supporters of God’s people.
- Divine Sonship: Some see the entire temptation narrative as a demonstration of Jesus’ divine sonship and mission, as he resists Satan’s temptations to misuse his powers.
Practical Applications
Believers can draw several lessons from this verse:
- Endurance: Encouragement to endure temptation and hardship, with the knowledge that spiritual relief and help will come.
- Dependence on God: Jesus’ refusal of Earthly aid and power encourages believers to prioritize spiritual over earthly needs.
- Divine Assistance: Assures believers that just as angels ministered to Jesus, God provides support to those who remain faithful.
Cross-References
- Mark 1:13: “And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him.”
- 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.”
Language Study
The Greek word translated as “ministered” (διηκόνουν, diēkonoun) derives from the term διάκονος (diakonos), which means to serve, particularly as one would wait upon a guest. This implies that the angels took on a supportive role typically assumed by servants, catering to Jesus’ needs after his ordeal.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
The concept of spiritual beings assisting humans can be found across various ancient religions:
- Greek Mythology: Gods often send messengers or intervene directly in the lives of heroes.
- Judaism: Angels frequently act as messengers or protectors; for example, an angel prevents Abraham from sacrificing Isaac (Genesis 22:11-12).
- Islam: Similar to Christianity, angels are viewed as messengers and servants of God.
Scientific Perspectives
There is no empirical evidence within the scientific community to support the existence of angels or supernatural events. Such elements of the biblical narrative are matters of faith rather than empirical scientific inquiry. However, psychological studies on belief systems might explore why such narratives resonate with people and how they contribute to individual and collective psychological resilience.
Commentaries
Different biblical scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of Matthew 4:11:
- Albert Barnes notes that Jesus’ experience demonstrates human reliance on divine support.
- John Calvin comments on the inordinate nature of Satan’s temptations and the propriety of angelic ministering.
- William Barclay points out the contrast between Jesus being served by angels in the wilderness and His later declaration that He came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, emphasizing His role as a servant despite being the Son of God.