Matthew 4:7 Meaning and Explanation
“Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus answers Scripture with Scripture, refusing to put God to a deliberate test.
What Does Matthew 4:7 Mean?
With "It is written again," Jesus sets one passage beside another, showing that Scripture interprets Scripture and is not to be played off against itself. He draws from Deuteronomy 6:16, where Israel is warned not to test the Lord as they did at Massah by demanding proof. The right answer to a twisted text is a truer one.
To "tempt" God here means to put him on trial, demanding that he act to satisfy our doubt. Jesus will not bargain with his Father or treat divine faithfulness as something to be dared into the open. Genuine trust does not need to force God's hand; it takes him at his word and leaves the proving to him.
Matthew 4:7 in the Original Language
ekpeiraseis (ἐκπειράσεις), 'tempt' -- to test thoroughly, to put God on trial by demanding he prove himself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 4:7
What does Matthew 4:7 mean?
Jesus answers Scripture with Scripture, refusing to put God to a deliberate test.