Robertson Word Pictures - Matthew 4:11 - 4:11

Online Resource Library

Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com

Robertson Word Pictures - Matthew 4:11 - 4:11


(Show All Books | Show All Chapters)

This Chapter Verse Commentaries:

Then the devil leaveth him (tote aphiēsin auton ho diabolos). Note the use of “then” (tote) again and the historical present. The movement is swift. “And behold” (kai idou) as so often in Matthew carries on the life-like picture.

“Angels came (aorist tense prosēlthon punctiliar action) and were ministering (diēkonoun, picturesque imperfect, linear action) unto him.” The victory was won in spite of the fast of forty days and the repeated onsets of the devil who had tried every avenue of approach. The angels could cheer him in the inevitable nervous and spiritual reaction from the strain of conflict, and probably also with food as in the case of Elijah (1Ki 19:6.). The issues at stake were of vast import as the champions of light and darkness grappled for the mastery of men. Luk 4:13 adds, that the devil left Jesus only “until a good opportunity” (achri kairou).