Levites were first allowed to work in the tabernacle (Numbers 4:3). (continued)
into it, pray over it, diligently, perseveringly, unweariedly. Let us strive to be so thoroughly acquainted with its pages, that its text may abide in our memories, and stand ready at our right hand in the day of need. Let us be able to appeal from every perversion and false interpretation of its meaning, to those thousand plain passages, which are written as it were with a sunbeam. The Bible is indeed a sword, but we must take heed that we know it well, if we would use it with effect.
Notes on 4:1-13
1. Led by the Spirit. The word translated led is the same one that we find in Romans 8:14 and Galatians 5:18, applied to the influence of the Holy Spirit on the hearts of believers. Our Lord did not seek conflict with the Devil but was led to it.
4. "It is written." This text, as well as the two others quoted by our Lord in reply to the Devil, were taken from the Pentateuch (Deuteronomy 8:3; 6:13, 16).
5. In an instant. Lightfoot quotes a rabbinical definition of a moment
— "the 58,888th part of an hour."
9. The highest point of the temple. This is supposed to have been a turret overhanging a deep valley. Josephus describes the place and says that "if any looked down, his eyes would grow dizzy, not being able to reach to so vast a depth."
10. "It is written." Let it be carefully noted that the Devil can quote
Scripture when it suits him. There is no good thing which may not be abused.
13. He left him. This is evidence of the personality of Satan. If the