A study of the concept and experience of temptation in the synoptic Gospels

Abstract

At the very outset the first chapter considers Jesus’ temptation in Mark and the main concepts related to it. This chapter presents also a short outline of demonology and of the practice of exorcism. Secondly, it focuses attention upon Jesus’ exorcisms in the gospel of Mark, cf, also parallels. Thirdly, Jesus’ encounter with temptation caused by human agents is considered; cf. the Beelzebul controversy, Caesarea Philippi, and the Gethsemane narrative. Fourth, Jesus’ crucifixion in Mark is interpreted from a temptation perspective. The chapter is concluded with an appendix, which interprets Jesus’ crucifixion from a modern medical point of view. Chapter two covers four areas of thought: (i) apology, (2) Parousia postponement, (3) Heilsgeschichte, and (4) the problem of temptation. The investigation of Luke’s apology is a presentation of historical reasons, which influenced Luke to compose his gospel. Luke’s apology is traced within the framework of the gospel. The division of the Parousia postponement deals with the investigation of theological reasons, which caused Luke to compose his gospel. The Parousia postponement problem is presented from two points of view. First, a general Synoptic approach to this problem is considered. Secondly, the study emphasizes Luke’s particular approach to the Parousia postponement problem. The subdivision Heilsgeschichte is a short consideration of Jesus’ mission and person, according to Luke, and also a consideration of the framework, within which the gospel is embedded. The problem of temptation (πειρϫϬӍος - ππƥϫϬϬiev ) in Luke is approached from two points of view. Namely, first, attention is paid to Satan's and demonic activity within the Heilsgeschichte proper (Lk.4:13-22; 3). Secondly, the activity of Satan and of demons is traced outside the so-called Heilsgeschichte. Finally, a short appendix is added, which considers the idea of temptation presented by other word groups in Luke's gospel. The third chapter investigates the sixth and the seventh petitions of the Lord's Prayer in Matthew's gospel from a historical and theological point of view. It is a consideration of the eschatological ππƥϫϬϬiev of an individual and a community just before the eschatological End. Secondly, chapter three focuses attention upon Jesus’ teaching about marriage and divorce in a situation, which can be designated as temptation. A short outline is presented also of Jewish and Gentile attitudes towards the problem of marriage and divorce. Thirdly, the question about taxes payable to Caesar is considered from a temptation perspective. Fourth, attention is paid to Jesus' interpretation of the Commandment of Love a situation, which can be characterized as ππƥϫϬϬiev. The chapter is concluded with an appendix, which considers; several short references to temptation in Matthew's gospel.