Luke 11:4

And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.'"

Study Bible

And forgive us our sins
This phrase is a plea for divine forgiveness, acknowledging human fallibility and the need for God's grace. The Greek word for "forgive" is "ἀφίημι" (aphiēmi), which means to send away or release. This reflects the idea of God removing the burden of sin from us. In the historical context of Jewish tradition, forgiveness was often associated with sacrificial offerings, but Jesus teaches that it is through prayer and repentance that we seek God's mercy. This phrase emphasizes the importance of humility and the recognition of our dependence on God's grace.

for we also forgive everyone who sins against us
Here, the reciprocal nature of forgiveness is highlighted. The Greek word for "forgive" in this context is the same as before, "ἀφίημι," reinforcing the idea of releasing or letting go. This part of the verse underscores the Christian principle that receiving God's forgiveness is intrinsically linked to our willingness to forgive others. Historically, this teaching was radical, as it called for a personal and communal ethic of forgiveness that transcended the legalistic norms of the time. It challenges believers to embody the grace they have received by extending it to others, fostering a community marked by reconciliation and love.

And lead us not into temptation
This phrase is a petition for divine guidance and protection. The Greek word for "temptation" is "πειρασμός" (peirasmos), which can mean a trial or test. Theologically, this reflects the understanding that while God does not tempt us to do evil, He allows us to face trials that can strengthen our faith. The historical context of this prayer reflects the early Christian community's awareness of spiritual warfare and the need for God's help in overcoming the challenges of living a faithful life. It is a humble request for God to steer us away from situations where we might fall into sin, acknowledging our vulnerability and the need for His guidance.

but deliver us from the evil one
This concluding phrase is a plea for deliverance from evil, specifically from "the evil one," which is often understood to refer to Satan. The Greek word "ῥύομαι" (rhuomai) means to rescue or deliver, indicating a powerful act of salvation. This reflects the biblical narrative of God as a deliverer, seen throughout the Old Testament in accounts of liberation and protection. In the New Testament context, it acknowledges the reality of spiritual adversaries and the believer's reliance on God's power to overcome them. This phrase encapsulates the hope and assurance that God is actively working to protect and save His people from all forms of evil.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this prayer, teaching His disciples how to pray.

2. Disciples
The immediate audience receiving Jesus' teaching on prayer.

3. God the Father
The one to whom the prayer is directed, emphasizing a personal relationship.

4. Sinners
Those who have committed sins, both the one praying and those who have sinned against them.

5. Temptation
The trials or tests that believers seek to avoid or overcome with God's help.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a central theme in the Christian life. As we seek God's forgiveness, we must also extend forgiveness to others. This reflects the grace we have received and is a testament to our faith.

Understanding Temptation
While God does not tempt us, He allows us to face trials. Our prayer should be for strength to resist and wisdom to avoid situations that lead to sin.

The Role of Prayer in Daily Life
This verse highlights the importance of daily prayer in seeking God's guidance and strength. It is a reminder to maintain a humble and dependent relationship with God.

Reciprocal Forgiveness
The act of forgiving others is not just a command but a reflection of our understanding of God's forgiveness towards us. It is a cycle of grace that should permeate our relationships.

Spiritual Vigilance
Being aware of our weaknesses and the potential for temptation is crucial. Prayer is a tool for spiritual vigilance, helping us to stay alert and rely on God's strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's forgiveness towards us influence our ability to forgive others?

2. In what ways can we actively seek to avoid temptation in our daily lives, and how does prayer play a role in this?

3. Reflect on a time when you struggled to forgive someone. How did this affect your relationship with God and others?

4. How can we reconcile the idea that God does not tempt us with the prayer to "lead us not into temptation"?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our prayers are aligned with the teachings of Jesus in Luke 11:4?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 6:12-13
This passage parallels Luke 11:4, providing another account of the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing forgiveness and deliverance from evil.

Ephesians 4:32
Encourages believers to forgive one another as God in Christ forgave them, reinforcing the reciprocal nature of forgiveness.

1 Corinthians 10:13
Assures believers that God will not allow them to be tempted beyond what they can bear, providing a way out.

Psalm 23:3-4
Speaks of God leading His people in paths of righteousness and through the valley of the shadow of death, relating to guidance and protection from evil.

James 1:13-14
Clarifies that God does not tempt anyone, but each person is tempted by their own desires, providing insight into the nature of temptation.