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Luke 4:5

And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.

Luke 4:5 · King James Version

Meaning

When the devil takes Jesus to a high mountain and shows him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, it symbolizes the temptation of power and control. The devil is offering Jesus dominion over all the earthly kingdoms, tempting him to choose worldly power over his divine mission. By showcasing the vastness and grandeur of the world's kingdoms, the devil is trying to entice Jesus with the allure of authority and influence. However, Jesus rejects this temptation, staying true to his purpose and demonstrating his unwavering commitment to God's will. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying faithful and resisting the temptation to prioritize material possessions and earthly power over spiritual values.

Theological Overview

According to theological interpretation, the verse in Luke 4:5 where the devil takes Jesus up to a high mountain to show Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time is often viewed as a test of Jesus's loyalty to God. The devil tempts Jesus with the allure of power and authority over all the kingdoms of the world if He would bow down and worship him. This illustrates the ongoing battle between good and evil, as well as the temptation to prioritize worldly gains over spiritual values. Word studies on this verse may focus on the concept of "kingdoms" in the original Greek, which can signify both physical territories and symbolic realms of authority. The quickness with which the devil shows Jesus all the kingdoms in a moment of time can be seen as a demonstration of his deceitful nature and his attempts to manipulate Jesus into making a hasty decision. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining steadfast faith in God and resisting the temptations of the world.

Luke 4:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

And he led him up, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.

World English Bible

The devil, leading him up on a high mountain, showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.

Douay-Rheims

And the devil led him into a high mountain and shewed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then the deuill tooke him vp into an high mountaine, and shewed him all the kingdomes of the world, in the twinkeling of an eye.