New Testament
Luke 4:12
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus responds to a temptation from the devil by quoting scripture.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Jesus replied, "It is said: 'You shall not tempt the Lord your God.'"
And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus responds to a temptation from the devil by quoting scripture. He emphasizes that one should not test or challenge God’s authority or goodness. This reflects a deep understanding of faith, where believers are called to trust God without demanding proof of His power or presence. The phrase 'You shall not tempt the Lord your God' serves as a reminder that faith should be rooted in trust rather than in seeking signs or miracles to validate God's promises. Jesus' response highlights the importance of relying on God's word and wisdom, rather than succumbing to doubt or manipulation. This moment illustrates the spiritual battle between faith and temptation, showing that true obedience involves trusting God even when circumstances are challenging. By using scripture, Jesus models how to resist temptation and reinforces the need for believers to know and apply God’s word in their lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 4:12 to your life
When faced with challenges or doubts, remember to rely on God's word for guidance. Instead of testing God, strengthen your faith through prayer and scripture. Trust that God is in control and will provide what you need in His timing.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 4:12 mean?
Luke 4:12 shows Jesus responding to temptation by quoting scripture, specifically stating that one should not test God. This emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's authority and goodness without demanding proof.
What is the significance of 'You shall not tempt the Lord your God' in Luke 4:12?
The phrase 'You shall not tempt the Lord your God' highlights the need for believers to have faith in God without seeking signs or miracles to validate His promises. It serves as a reminder to trust God in all circumstances.
How does Luke 4:12 relate to temptation?
In Luke 4:12, Jesus demonstrates how to resist temptation by relying on scripture. His response illustrates the spiritual battle between faith and doubt, showing that true obedience involves trusting God.
What can we learn from Jesus' response in Luke 4:12?
Jesus' response in Luke 4:12 teaches us the importance of knowing and applying God's word in our lives. It encourages believers to strengthen their faith through scripture rather than testing God.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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