Numbers 34-36; Luke 4
The laws regarding the death penalty and murder reflect God's attitude toward the sanctity of human life. People do not have the right to kill other people, as each person bears the image and likeness of God (Genesis 9:6). But this right belongs to God. His holiness and justice demand retribution. He gave life to people, and He can take it away. To teach people to understand this, seeing the difference between God's position and human position, the Mosaic law prescribed the death penalty, primarily as retribution for murder (Numbers 35:33-34). At the same time, to avoid the execution of those who unintentionally killed someone, cities of refuge were established along with a judicial system (Numbers 35:24-25).
The temptation of Christ in the wilderness reveals numerous lessons:
- Jesus is led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1). Temptations (also trials) are an essential part of the lives of believers. Through them, the Lord shapes our faith. It is an integral element of growing in maturity.
- The devil's temptations are diverse and persistent. He attacks Christ from different angles, seeking opportunities to induce Him to distrust and disobey God.
- Jesus overcomes temptations with Scripture (Luke 4:4, 8, 12). Knowledge of Scripture and its proper application in life are critically crucial for spiritual victories and overall success.
- Temptations do not cease as long as we live on earth. "...the devil departed from Him until an opportune time" (Luke 4:13).
The fulfillment of prophecies about Him marked the beginning of Christ's ministry. Jesus Himself quotes Isaiah 61, applying it to Himself (Luke 4:17-22). Moreover, His ministry was accompanied by a clear manifestation of divine power (Luke 4:32-23). All this confirmed His divinity.
The temptation of Christ in the wilderness reveals numerous lessons:
- Jesus is led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1). Temptations (also trials) are an essential part of the lives of believers. Through them, the Lord shapes our faith. It is an integral element of growing in maturity.
- The devil's temptations are diverse and persistent. He attacks Christ from different angles, seeking opportunities to induce Him to distrust and disobey God.
- Jesus overcomes temptations with Scripture (Luke 4:4, 8, 12). Knowledge of Scripture and its proper application in life are critically crucial for spiritual victories and overall success.
- Temptations do not cease as long as we live on earth. "...the devil departed from Him until an opportune time" (Luke 4:13).
The fulfillment of prophecies about Him marked the beginning of Christ's ministry. Jesus Himself quotes Isaiah 61, applying it to Himself (Luke 4:17-22). Moreover, His ministry was accompanied by a clear manifestation of divine power (Luke 4:32-23). All this confirmed His divinity.
Posted in Reading Bible Together