Luke 4:6

"I will give You authority over all these kingdoms and all their glory," he said. "For it has been relinquished to me, and I can give it to anyone I wish.

Study Bible

I will give You
This phrase is spoken by Satan during the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. The Greek word for "give" is "δώσω" (dōsō), which implies a transfer of power or possession. In the context of the temptation, Satan is attempting to offer Jesus something that is not rightfully his to give, highlighting the deceitful nature of the adversary. This offer is a counterfeit promise, as true authority belongs to God alone. Theologically, this reflects the ongoing spiritual battle where Satan tries to usurp God's authority.

authority over all these kingdoms
The term "authority" comes from the Greek "ἐξουσία" (exousia), meaning power or right to act. In the ancient world, kingdoms were often ruled by monarchs who wielded absolute power. Satan's claim to offer authority over these kingdoms is a direct challenge to God's sovereignty. Historically, the Roman Empire, which dominated the known world at the time, was seen as the epitome of earthly power. Yet, Jesus' mission was not to establish an earthly kingdom but a heavenly one, emphasizing the spiritual nature of His reign.

and all their glory
The word "glory" is translated from the Greek "δόξα" (doxa), which can mean splendor, honor, or magnificence. In biblical terms, true glory is attributed to God. The glory of earthly kingdoms is temporary and pales in comparison to the eternal glory of God's kingdom. This phrase serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of worldly power and the eternal significance of spiritual truth.

he said
This simple phrase indicates the speaker, Satan, who is often referred to as the "father of lies" (John 8:44). His words are a mixture of truth and deception, as he acknowledges his temporary dominion over the earth but fails to recognize God's ultimate authority. This highlights the importance of discernment and reliance on God's Word to counteract falsehoods.

for it has been relinquished to me
The word "relinquished" suggests a transfer or surrender of control. The Greek term "παραδίδωμι" (paradidōmi) can mean to hand over or deliver. This reflects the biblical understanding that, due to humanity's fall into sin, Satan has a certain level of influence over the world. However, this is not a permanent state, as Christ's redemptive work on the cross ultimately defeats Satan's power.

and I can give it to anyone I wish
This claim by Satan is a bold assertion of his perceived power. The phrase "I can give" uses the Greek "δίδωμι" (didōmi), emphasizing the act of bestowing or granting. However, this is a deceptive promise, as true authority and dominion belong to God alone. This statement serves as a caution against the allure of worldly power and the importance of seeking God's will above all else.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is being tempted by the devil in the wilderness after fasting for forty days. This event is crucial as it demonstrates His sinless nature and His reliance on God's Word.

2. The Devil
The tempter in this passage, the devil offers Jesus all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship. This highlights the devil's role as the deceiver and his temporary authority over earthly realms.

3. Wilderness
The setting for this temptation, the wilderness represents a place of testing and spiritual struggle. It is a place where Jesus is physically weak but spiritually strong.

Teaching Points

Authority and Power
The devil claims, "I will give You authority over all these kingdoms and all their glory," highlighting the temporary and deceptive nature of worldly power. True authority belongs to God alone.

Worship and Allegiance
The devil's offer is contingent upon Jesus worshiping him. This underscores the importance of worship and allegiance to God alone, as worship is a matter of the heart and ultimate loyalty.

Scriptural Defense
Jesus' response to temptation is rooted in Scripture, demonstrating the power and necessity of knowing and applying God's Word in spiritual battles.

Temporary vs. Eternal
The devil's offer is temporary and fleeting, while Jesus' mission and kingdom are eternal. Believers are called to focus on eternal values rather than temporary gains.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the devil's offer to Jesus in Luke 4:6 reflect the nature of temptation in our own lives today?

2. In what ways can we use Scripture to combat temptation, as Jesus did in this passage?

3. How does understanding the temporary nature of worldly power and glory influence our daily decisions and priorities?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure our worship and allegiance remain solely with God?

5. How does the account of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness encourage us in our own spiritual struggles and wilderness experiences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
The temptation of Jesus parallels the temptation of Adam and Eve, highlighting the contrast between their failure and Jesus' victory over sin.

Matthew 4:8-10
This parallel account of Jesus' temptation provides additional context and details, emphasizing the devil's offer and Jesus' response.

1 John 2:16
This verse outlines the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, which are all elements present in the devil's temptations.