Definition: Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 4:1: Basically, it means: Jesus was guided by a spirit (like an unseen helper) and sent away into a place called the "wilderness" – which is basically a remote and isolated area. He’s being tested by someone named the Devil. Let's unpack it a little more: “Then was Jesus led…” : This tells us that Jesus wasn't just wandering around on his own. He had someone guiding him. “…up of the Spirit” : The “Spirit” here isn’t just any spiritual presence; it’s a special, powerful force – like God’s guidance and strength. “Led up” means he was being carried or directed. “…into the wilderness” : The wilderness was a very difficult place – far from home, often with little food and water. It symbolized isolation and challenge. “to be tempted of the devil” : This is the key part! “Tested” means Jesus faced difficulties and challenges. The Devil is an angel (or a being of opposition) who wants to try to deceive or discourage Jesus. What's the point of this story? This passage shows that Jesus wasn’t just capable of facing difficult situations; he was willing to do so. It highlights his strength, resilience, and reliance on God’s help. It’s a foundational story in Christian theology – it demonstrates that even though we might stumble and face hardship, God is with us and will protect us. In short: Jesus was sent into a difficult place to prove his worthiness and be tested by the forces of evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about this story in the Bible?

Definition: Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Matthew 4:10. It's a really important part of understanding Jesus’ journey and what he’s doing in the story. Here’s a simple explanation: Basically, Jesus is telling this person (likely one of his disciples) to stop resisting him and to focus on obeying God’s rules. Let's unpack it word by word: “Matthew 4:10” : This refers to a specific story in the Gospel of Matthew. “Then saith Jesus unto him…” : Jesus is speaking directly to this person, likely one who was arguing or trying to stop him. “…get thee hence…” : This means "leave this place" or "stop here." It’s a command – he needs to move away from whatever situation he's in. “…Satan:” This is important! “Satan” was a very powerful and challenging figure in Jewish tradition, representing evil and opposition. Jesus recognized him as a major obstacle. “For it is written…” : This is where the key meaning comes in. The Bible tells us that God has specific rules for how we should behave – rules about worshiping Him. “Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” This is the core of the verse. It means: "You must worship God and obey His commands completely." It’s a command from God that everyone should follow. What does this mean in practice? This verse is about obedience. Jesus was challenging someone who wasn't following God’s instructions, and Jesus is telling him to stop resisting and instead focus on fulfilling the rules he's given. It’s a reminder that we are called to live a life that honors God. In short: Jesus is telling this person to completely turn their attention to obeying God’s commands – to stop arguing with him and dedicate themselves to following his teachings. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail, or would you like me to relate it to a specific part of the Bible story? For example, we could discuss: The context of this verse within Matthew 4:1-11 (the temptation by Satan) Why obedience is so important according to the Bible.

Definition: Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 4:11: “Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means Jesus was freed from the influence of Satan. Let’s look at each part: “The devil leaveth him…” – This is a key phrase. “Leaveth” means to leave behind. The Devil, who is often portrayed as an enemy of Jesus and humanity, is being released from Jesus' presence. “…and…” - This simply indicates a change of something happening. “Behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” – This describes what happened next. Angels (spiritual beings) were sent to Jesus to help and guide him. "Ministered" means to serve or to offer something. They were there to comfort and support him. So, the whole verse is saying that after Jesus was struggling with temptation and opposition, angels intervened to protect and assist him. What does this mean in a broader sense? This story is often interpreted as a symbol of Jesus’s victory over evil and his ability to overcome challenges. It shows that: God's Protection: Angels represent God’s watchful care and protection for His followers. Strength in Faith: Jesus’s success in this moment demonstrates the power of faith and trusting in God’s plan. Do you want me to explain anything more about this verse? For example, I could: Discuss the symbolism of angels? Explain the context of this story within the larger narrative of Jesus's ministry?

Definition: Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 4:12. It's a really important part of the story of Jesus’ early ministry! Here’s what it means in simple terms: “Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee” “Now” : This tells us we’re starting a new section of the story. “Jesus had heard…” : This means Jesus knew about what happened to John. He was aware of the situation. “that John was cast into prison” : This is the key part! John was taken away from his job and placed in a place where he couldn’t do his work. It sounds like he might have been arrested or put under some kind of restriction. “he departed into Galilee” : Jesus left Galilee – that's a region near Jerusalem – to go to a place called Galilee. So, the whole verse basically says: Jesus knew about John being in trouble and decided to move away from his normal life to find him. What’s it telling us about Jesus? This is often seen as a sign that Jesus was starting to get serious about his mission. He was moving away from his usual activities, preparing for what was ahead. It suggests he was thinking about the challenges he would face and taking steps to address them. In short, it’s a story of preparation and a move towards something important. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time Jesus was living?

Definition: And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 4:13. It’s a really important part of Jesus’ early ministry! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus was moving to a place near the sea – Capernaum – on the coast. Let's unpack that a little bit: “Leaving Nazareth”: This tells us he was leaving his home town, Nazareth, where he grew up. Nazareth was a small town in Galilee. “Came and dwelt…”: Jesus moved to this place – meaning he chose to live there. He wasn’t just passing through; he made a deliberate decision to stay. “…in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim”: This gives us a really cool picture: Capernaum: It's a town that’s right on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea (the “sea coast”). Zabulon and Nephthalim: These are two cities located further inland, along the eastern side of the sea. They are part of the region known as Israel. So, what does this tell us about Jesus? It suggests a few things: He was preparing for his ministry: He was choosing a place to live where he could focus on teaching and doing good works. He was setting up a base for his mission: Capernaum was a strategically important location, near the sea – a good place for him to spread his message. It’s often associated with the beginning of his ministry in Galilee. It's a bit mysterious, but it points to a significant shift in Jesus’ life. He wasn’t just traveling around; he was establishing a new home and starting something really important. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these words more clearly? Talk about the significance of Capernaum? Explore why this location is so important in biblical history?

Definition: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 4:14. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage that’s often used to talk about Jesus’ early journey. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is setting the stage for a big idea – Jesus is going to be very, very busy! The speaker is referencing a prophecy (a prediction) made by an ancient Jewish prophet named Esaias. The verse says, “That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet…” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Matthew 4:14” : This is the specific passage we're looking at. It’s a part of the Gospel of Matthew, which tells us about Jesus' first days in ministry. “That it might be fulfilled…” : This means “that this prophecy will come true.” It’s an expression of hope and anticipation. “…which was spoken by Esaias the prophet…” : Esaias was a very wise old man who lived around the time Jesus started his ministry. He wrote down many predictions about the future. This verse is highlighting that Esaias gave this prophecy – a specific prediction – to be realized. What does it mean in context? This verse speaks to something significant: Jesus’ preparation for his ministry. It suggests that Esaias' prophecy was about something important that would happen when Jesus started preaching and teaching. The idea is that God had already planned this event, and now it's time for it to unfold. Essentially, it’s a sign that Jesus was ready and prepared for his mission. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a hint of what’s coming in the future, but it doesn’t give us a complete picture. It’s more about setting up the stage for events to happen. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse is used in the Bible? Talk about the historical context surrounding this passage?

Definition: The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, [by] the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse! It’s a really important one in the Bible and it tells us where Jesus started his ministry. Here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, Jesus began his journey traveling through these areas. Let's unpack it piece by piece: Matthew 4: This is from Matthew, which is one of the four Gospels (the books about Jesus’ life). 4:15: That’s the title. It’s a specific verse number. “The land of Zabulon…” – This refers to a place in Israel called Zabulon. It was a region near Tel Aviv. “…and the land of Nephthalim, [by] the way of the sea, beyond Jordan…” – This is where it gets a little more complex. “Naphthalim” means "the land of the valley" and it’s located in the east side of the Dead Sea, near the Jordan River. So, this part tells us Jesus started his travels beyond the Jordan River. “Galilee of the Gentiles” – This is the key part! “Galilee” was a region in the north of Israel that was mostly inhabited by Jewish people. "The Gentiles" refers to people outside of Israel – meaning, non-Jews like Romans and other travelers. So, putting it all together: Jesus began his ministry (traveling and teaching) in the area that’s now called Galilee, which is located in northern Israel, but it was situated just beyond the Jordan River, a place that was previously largely inhabited by Jewish people – and that's where he started to reach out to those who weren't already part of the Jewish community. Why is this important? This verse is considered significant because it marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, meaning his time of teaching, healing, and performing miracles. It shows how Jesus was starting to reach out to a wider audience than just the people in Israel. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about this time period in history?

Definition: The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible passage together. It's a really beautiful and powerful image! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse describes a moment of profound change and hope. “The people which sat in darkness…” - This refers to people who were lost, discouraged, or struggling with something difficult – maybe they felt hopeless, or weren't seeing the good in their situation. They were surrounded by uncertainty and despair. “…saw great light…” - This is the key part! Seeing light means experiencing a shift, a revelation, an understanding of something new and better. It’s like a sudden burst of clarity. “And to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.” – This is where it gets really striking. “Shadow of death” refers to things that are bleak, hopeless, or even end-of-life situations. It’s a place of despair, of ending. Light springing up from this place means that God's presence and love are overcoming these negative feelings. Putting it all together: The verse speaks about a time when people who were feeling lost and hopeless were suddenly confronted with a bright, comforting light – a sign of God’s power and hope. It suggests that God is working to overcome darkness and despair in our lives. It's often interpreted as a metaphor for: God’s grace and forgiveness. The light represents the restoration of our relationship with Him after we've made mistakes or fallen short of His will. A moment of transformation. It signifies a shift from negativity to positivity, from despair to hope. Does that make sense? Do you want me to: Explain it in more detail about the context of this passage in the Bible? Talk about what it might mean for you personally?

Definition: From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 4:17: “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, ‘Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means: Jesus started sharing his message – teaching about God’s love and salvation – and he started telling people to change their minds or repent . Let’s unpack that further: "From that time Jesus began to preach..." - This refers to the very beginning of Jesus' ministry. He started sharing his message with people, starting with a small group. "...and to say, ‘Repent…’” – "Repent" is a really important word. It means to turn away from sin and evil and to seek God’s forgiveness. It's like taking a wrong path and choosing the right one. “For the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” - This is the big takeaway! The "kingdom of heaven" refers to God’s eternal rule, a place where everything will be perfect and good. “At hand” means it’s coming soon – it's not something we have to wait for anymore; it’s already happening. So, the verse is saying that Jesus started sharing his message and urging people to change their hearts and turn towards God. It sets the stage for the rest of his ministry – a call to repentance and the promise of a better future. In short, it's a powerful message about God’s invitation to change and find salvation through faith in Jesus. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about when this verse was written? Discuss what “repentance” means in the context of Christian belief?

Definition: And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 4:18. It's a really important story about Jesus’ early ministry! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus was fishing with two men who were enjoying themselves. Let’s unpack that a little more: “Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee” : This tells us Jesus wasn't just relaxing; he was actively engaged in something. He was moving through a beautiful place – the Sea of Galilee – which is known for its calm waters. “Saw two brethren…” : This refers to Simon Peter and Andrew. These were two of his closest followers and friends. They were known for their faith and willingness to follow Jesus. “…casting a net into the sea” : This describes what they were doing – fishing! It’s a common way for fishermen to catch fish, and it highlights that Jesus was also engaged in a purposeful activity. “For they were fishers” : This is the key part! "Fishers" means “spearfish” or “net-bringers.” The Bible says this phrase means Jesus was called a fisherman. It’s like saying he was chosen for a special job – to be skilled at catching fish. So, what's the big takeaway? This verse shows that Jesus wasn't just interested in being a powerful leader or a religious figure. He was also actively involved in a practical task - fishing! It’s a beautiful illustration of his willingness to work hard and serve others – even when he’s not doing something grand and impressive. It suggests: Jesus loved people: He enjoyed spending time with these men, showing that he valued their company. Jesus was skilled: He was capable of a simple task like fishing, which highlights his importance and abilities. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time Jesus was fishing?