Topical Encyclopedia The term "pinnacles" refers to the high points or peaks of a structure, often used in architectural contexts to describe the pointed tops of towers or spires. In the biblical context, the term is most notably associated with the "pinnacle of the temple" mentioned in the New Testament during the temptation of Jesus.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to pinnacles is found in the account of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. In the Gospel of Matthew, Satan takes Jesus to the holy city and sets Him on the pinnacle of the temple: "Then the devil took Him to the holy city and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple." (Matthew 4:5) A parallel account is found in the Gospel of Luke: "Then the devil led Him to Jerusalem and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple." (Luke 4:9) In these passages, the pinnacle of the temple is the location where Satan challenges Jesus to throw Himself down, suggesting that angels would protect Him. This temptation is a test of Jesus' trust in God and His refusal to misuse His divine power for spectacle or self-preservation. Historical and Architectural Context: The temple referred to in these passages is the Second Temple in Jerusalem, a significant religious and cultural center for the Jewish people. The "pinnacle" likely refers to a high point on the temple complex, possibly the southeastern corner of the temple mount, which overlooked the Kidron Valley. This location would have been a dramatic and visible place for such a temptation, emphasizing the public nature of the challenge. Theological Significance: The temptation at the pinnacle of the temple holds deep theological significance. It underscores the nature of Jesus' mission and His obedience to the Father. By refusing to test God, Jesus demonstrates His perfect submission and trust, setting an example for believers to rely on God's promises without demanding signs or miraculous interventions. The event also highlights the misuse of Scripture, as Satan quotes Psalm 91:11-12 to persuade Jesus. Jesus counters with Scripture, quoting Deuteronomy 6:16: "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" (Matthew 4:7). This exchange emphasizes the importance of understanding and applying Scripture correctly. Symbolic Interpretation: Symbolically, the pinnacle represents a place of decision and testing. It is a metaphor for the high points in life where individuals face critical choices that test their faith and character. The narrative encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, relying on God's word and resisting the temptation to seek validation through miraculous signs or worldly acclaim. In summary, the concept of pinnacles in the Bible, particularly in the context of Jesus' temptation, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and the proper use of Scripture in the life of a believer. Library Christian Graces. The Poor Man's Friend The Suicide of Thought On a Piece of Chalk. A Lecture to Working Men. The Corn of Wheat. The Lessons from Olivet The Comforter The Goths at Constantinople Things Perishing and Things Stable The Cry for Bread Thesaurus Pinnacles (2 Occurrences)...Pinnacles (2 Occurrences). ... (YLT). Isaiah 54:12 I will make your pinnacles of rubies, and your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones. ... /p/pinnacles.htm - 6k Pinnacle (2 Occurrences) Out-places (22 Occurrences) Window (24 Occurrences) Rubies (8 Occurrences) Pinning (2 Occurrences) Principal (28 Occurrences) Sparkling (7 Occurrences) Shushan (19 Occurrences) Jewels (54 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Pinnacles (2 Occurrences)Isaiah 15:3 Isaiah 54:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
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