Book of Luke - Chapter 4 - Verse 2

The verse "Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered." highlights the period of intense trial and temptation that Jesus faced in the wilderness. The number forty holds significant symbolism in the Bible, representing a time of testing or preparation. In this case, Jesus fasted for forty days and nights, demonstrating his dedication to spiritual discipline and reliance on God. The devil's attempts to tempt Jesus during this time showcase the ultimate battle between good and evil, as Jesus ultimately overcomes these temptations with his unwavering faith and trust in God. The verse underscores Jesus' humanity, as he experiences physical hunger and weakness after such a long period of fasting, yet also his divinity, as he emerges victorious over the temptations of the devil. This period of testing in the wilderness serves as a powerful example for believers, showing the importance of spiritual strength, reliance on God, and resistance to temptation in the face of adversity.

According to theological interpretation, the verse about Jesus being tempted by the devil for forty days holds significant meaning. The number forty often symbolizes a period of testing, such as the forty years that the Israelites wandered in the desert. In this case, Jesus's forty days of temptation demonstrates his complete obedience to God despite facing intense spiritual warfare. It also serves as a parallel to the Israelites' testing in the wilderness, highlighting Jesus as the new Israel, who overcomes the temptations that the Israelites failed to resist.

Word studies on the verse reveal the importance of the phrase "he did eat nothing." This emphasizes Jesus's dependence on God for sustenance during his time of testing, showing his commitment to spiritual discipline and reliance on the Father's provision. The fact that Jesus experienced hunger after the forty days further accentuates his humanity, as he endured the same physical limitations as any human would. Despite his divinity, Jesus chose to fully experience human weaknesses to show his solidarity with mankind and his willingness to overcome temptations on our behalf.