←
Explanation for:
Matthew
6
:
13
And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from evil. Amen.
15
more explanations
& daily audio-books
spoken by
– enjoy in Theosis App –
Start your
Bible-journey
with explanations
& daily audio-books
only 4$* per month
{"arr":[{"author-name":"Tertullian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c897f85f2df2b809392261_Tertullian.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":3,"exegesis-text":"To conclude this straightforward prayer, He emphasized that we ought to pray not just for the forgiveness of sins, but for their complete rejection: Lead us not into temptation, which means do not allow us to be influenced by the tempter. It should not be assumed that the Lord tempts us as if He were unaware of each person's faith or took pleasure in their downfall. Such weakness and malicious intent belong solely to the devil. He did not instruct Abraham to sacrifice his son merely to test his faith, but to prove his allegiance, serving as an example of His forthcoming commandment that no one should love their family more than God. Likewise, when Christ faced temptation from the devil, He clearly pointed to the true source of temptation. This was further confirmed when He urged, Pray that you may not fall into temptation (Luke 22:46). Those who were tempted to abandon the Lord were those who preferred sleep over prayer. This leads us to the conclusion: But deliver us from the evil one, elucidating the meaning behind the words: Lead us not into temptation.\\n\\nThe Lord's Prayer, in its concise expression, encompasses the teachings of the prophets, the Gospel, the Apostles, and the very words of Christ, along with His parables and commandments. How many responsibilities does it outline for us as those who seek to fulfill them? We are called to honor God through the phrase ‘Our Father’, to demonstrate our faith through our actions in ‘hallowed be Thy name’, to express our submission: ‘Thy will be done’, to seek sustenance in Him with: ‘Our bread ... give’, to acknowledge our transgressions by requesting forgiveness for our debts, and to protect ourselves from temptation by seeking divine refuge. Only God, in His mercy, can teach us how vital prayer is to Him. This reverent prayer, inspired by His Spirit within our hearts and originating as if from His own lips, ascends to heaven as it was originally taught, presenting to the Father what the Son instructed us. Moreover, since the Lord, who provides for our needs, has given us this prayer and specifically instructed: ‘seek and ye shall find’ (Luke 11:9), there are numerous matters for which each person, based on their specific circumstances, can supplement this prayer with additional requests in accordance with their life’s needs. Indeed, it is important to remember and observe the commandments, ensuring our petitions do not stray from God’s ears. Observing these commandments paves the way for our prayers to reach heaven, with the most essential being to not approach the altar of the Lord without first reconciling with those we have quarreled with (Matthew 5:23). How can one approach the God of peace without reconciling with their brother, forgiving debts while still holding onto grievances? And how can someone harboring anger towards their brother be pleasing to the Father?"},{"author-name":"Cyprian of Carthage","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a7d3432c6dd4136a433_Cyprian%20of%20Carthage.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":3,"exegesis-text":"The Lord provides us with essential direction in our prayers, urging us to say, ‘And lead us not into temptation.’ This indicates that the adversary wields no influence over us unless it is first permitted by God. Thus, our fears, reverence, and attentiveness should be directed toward God, as the evil one cannot entice us unless granted authority from above. The Scriptures illustrate this when they recount how Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, laid siege to Jerusalem, as the Lord allowed it to be handed over to him (Dan. 1:1-2). The evil one is allowed power over us due to our transgressions, as stated in the Scriptures: Who gave Jacob to be plundered, and Israel to those who captivated him? Was it not the Lord, whose ways we have forsaken and whose commandments we have failed to follow? Consequently, He shall bring upon them the wrath of His fury (Isaiah 42:24-25). Similarly, concerning Solomon, who deviated from the Lord's precepts, it is declared: And the Lord raised up an adversary against Solomon (1 Kings 11:23). The authority granted over us serves a dual purpose: it acts as punishment for our sins or as a means of glorification during trials, as seen in Job's experience, in accordance with God’s intention when He said, ‘All that he has is in your power; but do not lay a hand on him’ (Job 1:12). The Lord also teaches us during His time of suffering, ‘You would have no power over me if it weren’t given to you from above’ (John 19:11). When we implore not to be led into temptation, it brings us to a realization of our vulnerability and frailty, ensuring that no one becomes overly proud, assuming merit for their confessions or sufferings. Christ exemplified humility when He taught: ‘Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak’ (Mark 14:38). Thus, we must remain humble and submissive, surrendering all to God, so that what we earnestly ask for in holy fear and reverence may be received from His goodness. \\n\\nThe concluding part of the prayer encapsulates all our petitions, as we state: but deliver us from the evil one, signifying all the adversities that the enemy orchestrates against us in this life. We will find sure and formidable protection if God rescues us from them in response to our pleas. After the request, ‘Deliver us from the evil one,’ we have no further requests; seeking God’s safeguard, we are assured that such protection grants us safety from the deceptions of the adversary and the troubles of the world. It is fitting that this prayer comes from God Himself, capturing our desires succinctly yet powerfully. Long before, the prophet Isaiah foretold this when he proclaimed the greatness and love of God, saying: ‘The word shall be perfected and shortened by righteousness; as the word is shortened, the Lord will create in all the universe’ (Isaiah 10:23). Thus, when our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, came for all and taught both the learned and unlearned the path of salvation through His commandments, He presented them in a concise manner, ensuring that His teachings were easily remembered, particularly addressing simple faith. Offering the doctrine of eternal life, He succinctly expressed the essence of existence in these words: ‘And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent’ (John 17:3). Summarizing the foremost commandments from the law and prophets, He affirmed: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord your God is one Lord. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength; this is the first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself’ (Mark 12:29-31). In these two commandments, the entirety of the law and the prophets is contained (Mt. 22:40). Furthermore, He said: ‘Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them; for this is the Law and the Prophets’ (Matthew 7:12). The Lord instructed us to pray not only through His words but also through His actions. He often withdrew to pray, demonstrating what we should practice ourselves. The Scriptures tell us: He withdrew into the wilderness and prayed (Luke 5:16). Additionally, He ascended the mountain to pray, and was renewed during His communion with God (Luke 6:12). If the sinless Son prayed, how much more do we, in our frailty, need to pray? If He stayed awake all night in prayer, should we not also strive to do the same? His prayers were intercessions, never selfish; He prayed to the Father for our sins, as He explained to Peter: ‘Simon, behold, Satan has desired you, that he may sift you like wheat; but I have prayed for you that your faith should not fail’ (Luke 22:31-32). He further prayed not only for His immediate disciples but for all who would believe through their word, saying: ‘I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us’ (John 17:20-21). What immense goodness and love the Lord shows in orchestrating our salvation! Not only did He redeem us with His blood, but He also interceded for us, desiring our unity in the same oneness experienced by the Father and the Son. From this, we discern the gravity of those who disrupt unity and peace, destroying what the Lord desires, for His will is that His people dwell in harmony, knowing that discord finds no place in the kingdom of God. \\n\\nBeloved brethren! As we gather to pray, we must remain vigilant and earnest in our supplications. Let us cast aside every carnal thought and focus our spirits solely on our petitions. The priest guides us into this mindset with a solemn preface, saying, ‘Woe to us who have hearts,’ to which the congregation responds, ‘Imamas to the Lord,’ reminding all to center their thoughts on the Lord alone. Let our hearts be shielded from the enemy and open only to God, ensuring the adversary does not intrude during our prayers! However, he often attempts to infiltrate, diverting our prayers with cunning distractions, causing us to internally hold one thought while expressing another outwardly. It is crucial to approach the Lord with sincere devotion, praying not just with our voices but with our hearts and authentic feelings. How careless it is to allow oneself to become distant from God during prayer, allured by foolish and perverse thoughts as if anything were more significant than conversing with the Almighty! How can we expect God to hear us if we cannot even hear ourselves? How can we ask for God to remember us when we fail to remember our own prayers? This demonstrates a lack of vigilance against the enemy. To approach prayer with such indifference is to dishonor God through neglect. We must be watchful not just with our eyes but with our hearts, for a Christian's vigilance should be profound, even if the eyes are physically closed. The Scripture declares in the Song of Songs: ‘I sleep, but my heart is awake’ (Song of Songs 5:2). Thus, the Apostle urges us with wisdom, saying, ‘Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it’ (Colossians 4:2). He teaches that only those who God sees as attentive in prayer will receive from Him what they ask. Furthermore, it is essential that those who pray do not approach God with empty and superficial requests. A petition is without value if articulated without accompanying action. Just as every unfruitful tree is cut down and cast into the fire, words devoid of fruit cannot be pleasing to God because they lack substance. Hence, the Holy Scriptures instruct us: it is beneficial to pray with fasting and charitable deeds (Tob. 12:8). The Lord, who on the day of judgment rewards deeds and acts of charity, graciously listens to those who approach Him in accordance with their works. Consider Cornelius, the centurion, whose prayers were honored because he frequently practiced charity and prayed to God. At the ninth hour, while praying, an angel appeared to him, bearing witness of his works, affirming: ‘Cornelius, your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God’ (Acts 10:3-4). Likewise, the angel Raphael testified to Tobiah’s continuous prayers and actions, affirming that it is glorious to declare the works of God. He said, ‘When you prayed, both you and your daughter-in-law Sarah, I brought your prayer before the Holy One. When you buried the dead and were unafraid to rise and leave your meal to cover the dead, I was with you. Now God has sent me to heal you and your daughter-in-law Sarah. I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels who stand and serve before the glory of God’ (Tob. 12:11-15). The Lord also inspires through Isaiah, declaring: ‘Loose the bonds of wickedness, undo the heavy burdens, let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke. Share your bread with the hungry and bring the poor who are cast out to your house. When you see the naked, clothe him, and do not hide yourself from your own flesh. Then your light shall break forth like the morning, and your healing shall spring forth speedily; and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, “Here I am”’ (Isaiah 58:6-9). God promises to be present and responsive to those who, in resolve, renounce their sins and practice charity as He commands, therefore deserving to be heard because they abide by God’s commandments. The blessed Apostle Paul, upon receiving assistance from his brethren for his needs, regarded their generosity as a sacrifice unto God, referring to what was sent from Epaphroditus as ‘the sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God’ (Philippians 4:18). He who shows kindness to the poor lends to God; he who gives a gift even to the least of the brethren is offering a spiritually fragrant sacrifice to the Lord. \\n\\nIn terms of the appointed times for prayer, we observe that Daniel and the three faithful young men dedicated the hours of the third, sixth, and ninth to prayer, prefiguring the Mystery of the Holy Trinity. From the first hour to the third hour, we have a trinity; likewise, from the fourth to the sixth, there exists another trinity; and from the seventh to the ninth, once more, a trinity emerges, comprising three significant time periods that symbolize the complete Trinity. These established times of prayer have long been recognized by the faithful as sacred moments for worship. It has been revealed through the deeds of the righteous that these times likewise bear sacramental significance: at the third hour, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, fulfilling the promise of the Lord (Acts 2:4-15); at the sixth hour, Peter, ascending to pray in the upper room, received divine instruction on the inclusion of the Gentiles into the grace of salvation (Acts 10:9-16); and at the ninth hour, the Lord suffered on the cross, shedding His blood to redeem us, attaining victory through His suffering. Beyond the times traditionally observed for prayer in ages past, we, beloved brethren, following the increase of sacraments, should also expand our own practices of prayer. Therefore, it is necessary to engage in morning prayers to honor the Resurrection of Christ. The Scriptures affirm this: ‘O Lord, in the morning You will hear my voice; in the morning I will present my prayer to You and will wait’ (Psalm 5:3-4). The Lord also declared through the prophet: ‘They shall come to Me in the morning, saying, “Let us return to the Lord our God”’ (Hosea 6:1). Evening prayer is equally essential, as we seek the light of Christ at the day's end, asking for His grace. For Christ is the true Sun and the Day that illuminates us. He is referred to as the Day in the Psalms: ‘The stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner. This was the Lord's doing and is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it’ (Psalm 117:22-24). Malachi refers to Him as the Sun of Righteousness: ‘But to you who fear My name, the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings’ (Malachi 4:2). If Scripture identifies Christ as the true Sun and true Day, Christians should offer worship continually, ensuring that every hour becomes a moment of worship. United in Christ, the true Sun, we should engage in prayer and supplication throughout the day. Even as darkness may surround us, for those who belong to the light, it is daytime, even during nightfall. When does someone lit by Christ’s light remain in darkness? Let us not, continuous in Christ, drift from prayer even in the night. Let us emulate the widow Anna, who was devoted to prayer day and night, as it is written: she did not depart from the temple, serving God with fastings and prayers night and day (Luke 2:37). The faithful, both Gentiles yet to receive enlightenment and Jews who have turned away from the light, ought to take heed of this. But we, beloved brethren, who abide in the Lord's light, must recognize and uphold our commitment since receiving grace, counting the night as day. Confident that we dwell in the light, let us cast off the darkness we have abandoned: in the hours of the night, let prayer be abundant, and may we resist slothfulness and negligence. By God's grace, as we are spiritually renewed and transformed, let us adhere to our heavenly calling. Destined for the Kingdom, where day lasts without night, let us remain awake even at night as if it were day. With the hope of eternally praying and praising God there, we should ceaselessly uphold our prayers and thanksgivings here."},{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Amen serves as a mark affirming the essence of the Lord's Prayer. Aquila renders it as undoubtedly true; we might interpret it as truly."},{"author-name":"Cyrill of Jerusalem","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a9af397fcf9d613728f_Cyrill%20of%20Jerusalem.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"And lead us not into temptation, O Lord. Does the Lord instruct us to pray that we may be completely free from temptation? It is written in one place that a man is not tempted if he lacks discernment (Sir. 34:10; Rom. 1:28). Yet in another scripture, it says to consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds (James 1:2). To enter into temptation signifies being overwhelmed by it, as temptation can be like a turbulent river, challenging to navigate. Those who, while facing temptations, do not succumb, manage to swim through with skill and avoid being engulfed. In contrast, those lacking this ability sink, as was the case with Judas, who fell into the temptation of betrayal and ultimately perished both physically and spiritually. Peter faced the temptation of denial; however, though he stumbled, he did not falter completely and swam through the trial, finding deliverance from it. Furthermore, observe how the entire assembly of Saints expresses gratitude for liberation from temptation: You have tested us, O God; you have refined us like silver. You brought us into captivity; you laid burdens on our backs. You caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, yet you brought us to a place of abundance (Psalm 65:10-12). Notice how they rejoice in their deliverance instead of despairing. And He brought them out, saying, Into a place of abundance (Ibid. 12). To lead them to a place of abundance signifies freeing them from temptation. Yet to pray, lead us not into temptation, does not imply an absence of trials; otherwise, I would not add, but deliver us from the evil one. The evil one represents an opposing force, a wicked spirit from whom we seek rescue. When this prayer is answered, we affirm it with an Amen, which signifies our agreement that all within this divinely inspired prayer be accomplished."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"In this passage, the Savior illustrates our limited worth and diminishes our pride, admonishing us to engage in noble deeds without hurrying recklessly into them; thereby, our triumph will shine more brightly, and the adversary will feel our defeat more keenly. When we enter into battle, we must be resolute; however, if the call to action isn't clear, we should patiently await the appropriate moment to act, demonstrating both gratitude and courage. \\n\\nIndeed, we face numerous afflictions, many inflicted by the devil and others by human resentment, whether through blatant wrongdoing or hidden malice. The body can sometimes rise up against the spirit, causing significant pain, or be plagued by various illnesses, leading to suffering and distress. Given the multiple and varied adversities we encounter, we are instructed to plead with God for deliverance from them. For when He is implored, all chaos dissipates, the tumult gives way to peace, and the evil one, filled with shame, retreats; much like when he departed from humanity into swine, not daring to act without command (Matt. 8:31). If he lacks authority even over swine, how then can he dominate those who are protected by God?\\n\\nHere, Christ designates the devil as wicked, urging us to engage him relentlessly, revealing that his nature does not originate from creation. Evil is not a matter of nature but a consequence of free will. The devil is chiefly called evil because of the vastness of wrongdoing within him, and given that he takes no offense from us, he launches an unyielding assault against us. Thus, the Savior taught us not to request merely deliverance from the evil one, but from evil itself, guiding us to avoid harboring anger towards our neighbors for the wrongs we may endure, and to direct all our animosity towards the devil, who is the true source of evil. \\n\\nBy alerting us to our foe and dispelling our negligence, He further motivates us by revealing the King under whose sovereignty we battle, demonstrating that He surpasses all opposition. If His dominion is established, we need not fear anyone, for no one can stand against Him, nor share authority with Him. When the Savior declared, \\"Thine is the kingdom,\\" He indicated that our adversary is ultimately under God's authority, even though he seems to resist, permitted to do so by God's will. He is one of the condemned, a slave rejected, and thus will not dare to assault any of the servants unless he first receives permission from above. \\n\\nMoreover, it is important to note that he did not even attempt to enter the swine until the Savior commanded it, nor did he afflict the herds of sheep and cattle until he was granted authority from on high. \\"And power,\\" says Christ. Therefore, even though you may feel weak, you shall possess boldness, for you have a Sovereign who can perform all magnificent works through you. \\n\\nThis King not only frees you from the evils that threaten your existence but can also bring you honor and renown; His power is vast, and His glory is beyond expression - in every aspect, He embodies the infinite and the boundless. Can you see how the Savior offers strength and encouragement to the seeker of holiness from every angle?"},{"author-name":"Isidore of Pelusium","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88d94130e668938c9ae9d_Isidore%20of%20Pelusium.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"One who willingly immerses themselves in temptation and pursues every risky path, yet still prays, \\"Lead us not into temptation,\\" appears to mock the very prayer they offer, which is indeed a source of indignation. To deliberately follow the adversary—recognizing that the foe is conquered not through force or suffering but through allure—and then petition, \\"but deliver us from the evil one,\\" is especially contemptible. Similarly, to profess with one's lips, \\"Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,\\" while in practice neglecting the One from whom all authority and majesty flow, is utterly unforgivable. Therefore, to genuinely say \\"lead us not into temptation,\\" one must be someone who neither seeks temptation for themselves nor others. The plea \\"deliver us from the evil one\\" belongs to those who fervently resist the wiles of Satan. The declaration \\"Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,\\" is made valid by those who revere the word of God and manifest that reverence through their actions. The effectiveness of prayer is directly related to the character and life of the individual who prays."},{"author-name":"Barsanuphius the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88987273231d0b86ede87_Barsanuphius%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":6,"exegesis-text":"To express the plea “do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one” parallels the sentiments of Abba Macarius, who implores: “have mercy” and “help.”\\n\\nAbba Macarius of Skita advises against excessive speech, encouraging one to raise their hands and cry out: “Lord, as You will and as You know, have mercy on me.” In times of strife, he further urges: “Lord, as You will, help me.”"},{"author-name":"Maximus the Confessor","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8951a1dea23713695271e_Maximus%20the%20Confessor.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":7,"exegesis-text":"Through these words, Scripture reveals that anyone who is not fully reconciled with those who have wronged them, and fails to present to God a heart free from sorrow and illuminated by the light of reconciliation with others, will not only be denied the grace of the blessings they seek in prayer, but will also be subjected to temptation and the adversary by divine judgment, allowing them to learn to cleanse themselves from their wrongdoings by letting go of their grievances against others. Temptation, often referred to as the law of sin, was absent in the first man created by God; the term \\"evil\\" pertains to the devil, who introduced this law into human nature, deceiving humanity into misdirecting their soul's desires towards the illicit rather than the lawful, which ultimately led to the violation of divine commandments and the loss of the incorruption gifted by grace. Alternatively, 'temptation' can denote the soul's voluntary inclination towards carnal desires, while 'evil' refers to the active pursuit of these lustful inclinations. A righteous Judge will not liberate one who has not forgiven their debtors, even if they merely ask for it in prayer. To such a hardened individual, the Lord permits the law of sin to corrupt them, leaving them vulnerable to the evil one, as they chose dishonorable passions, which the devil sows, over their God-given nature. In truth, the Lord does not intervene when they yield to carnal desires, nor does He rescue them from the numerous manifestations of the passionate state of the soul. This occurs because, in regarding nature as inferior to transient passions devoid of independent existence, they failed to comprehend the essence of nature. Humanity must discern the law of nature from the oppressive influence of passions that invade their being due to free will. They are to safeguard the law of nature by aligning their activities with it, while expelling the tyranny of passions from their will, maintaining their nature pure, unblemished, and free from hatred and conflict. Their will ought to introduce nothing contrary to what nature allows; they must cultivate harmony with their true nature. Thus, one must eliminate all resentment and strife towards their fellow beings, ensuring God hears their prayer, granting them not just simple grace but a double measure: forgiveness for past sins and protection from future ones; this way, they will not succumb to temptation or become ensnared by the evil one, all stemming from their willingness to forgive their neighbors’ debts. Consequently, we can briefly summarize what has been discussed: if we aim to escape the clutches of the evil one and avoid temptation, we must trust in God and forgive our debtors. For if you do not forgive people their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses (Matthew 6:15). Then not only will we receive forgiveness for our sins, but we will also conquer the law of sin itself, as the Lord will shield us from experiencing it, and we shall vanquish the origin of sin, the wicked serpent, whose deliverance we seek in prayer. Christ, who has triumphed over the world, will lead us in this endeavor; He equips us with the commandments, and through adherence to these, by renouncing passions and embracing love, He unites human nature. As the Bread of life, wisdom, knowledge, and truth, He attracts our insatiable desire; fulfilling the Father's will, He makes us co-workers with the angels so that, even in this life, we may emulate them and reflect the heavenly goodness of God. He elevates us to the highest levels of the Divine, guiding us to the Father of lights (James 1:17), and, through communion with the Holy Spirit, makes us participants in the Divine nature, allowing us to be called children of God without limitation, fully embodying the Son of God in essence—the perfecter of this grace, from whom, through whom, and in whom we have and shall continue to have existence, movement, and life. Therefore, let our prayers be directed towards witnessing the sacrament of deification, understanding how our exhaustion through the flesh of the Only Begotten has transformed us, and recognizing from where and to what heights the Lord has lifted us by His loving hand, despite our descent into the abyss of sin. Let us love Him even more, who has so wisely prepared our salvation. In action, let us fulfill this prayer and proclaim God as our true Father in grace. Let us refrain from dishonorable passions, which reveal that we have made the evil one our life’s father, who strives to dominatingly control human nature. And let us be vigilant not to unwittingly exchange life for death. Each being tends to reward those aligned with them; some offer eternal life to those who love them, while others, through the instigation of voluntary temptations, lead to death. As the Holy Scriptures indicate, temptations fall into two categories: one kind is appealing, while the other is distressing; one is voluntary, and the other involuntary. The former gives rise to sin, urging us to pray that we not be subjected to it, as the Lord instructs us, saying, And lead us not into temptation, and Watch and pray lest we fall into temptation (Matthew 26:41). The latter, which punishes sinfulness through involuntary suffering, acts as a chastisement for sin. Anyone who withstands such trials—if unshackled by the chains of vice—will heed the words of the great James, who calls out: Receive with joy, my brethren, when you face various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces perseverance; and perseverance must bring about a complete work (James 1:2-4; Romans 5:4). Yet, the Evil One gleefully observes both types of temptation, whether voluntary or involuntary. In the case of the former, he plants seeds of bodily pleasures in the soul, seeking to divert it from pursuing Divine love. Regarding the latter, he often cunningly requests it, aiming to burden human nature with torment and tribulation, attempting to lead the suffering soul to harbor hostility towards the Creator. However, being aware of the enemy’s schemes, we shall shun willingly embraced temptations so that our desires remain aligned with Divine love; yet, with courage, we shall endure involuntary temptations, permitted by God, to demonstrate our preference for the Creator over creation itself. And may all who call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be delivered from the fleeting pleasures of this world, which spring from the evil one, escaping future trials, and becoming partakers of the divine blessings revealed to us in Christ our Lord, who is one with the Father and the Holy Spirit, glorified by all creation. Amen."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"And lead us not into temptation. We are frail beings, and it is wise not to place ourselves in the path of temptation. Yet, should we stumble, we must beseech that such trials do not overpower us. It is those who are drawn into the depths of tribulation who find themselves consumed and defeated, rather than those who have simply fallen in but are later subdued. But deliver us from the evil one. It does not mention ‘from evil men,’ for it is not humanity that causes us harm, but the malevolent one. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen. This reassures us, for if our Heavenly Father reigns as the King, mighty and majestic, we shall certainly triumph over the evil one and be glorified in the age to come."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"And lead us not into temptation. Temptation refers to any confrontation where we are influenced by the enticement of the devil, testing the fortitude of our spirits. Thus, these words remind us to depend not on our own strength and to avoid carelessly exposing ourselves to temptation, but rather to earnestly pray that we may be spared from it. This teaching highlights both our helplessness and cultivates a sense of humility. It is important to remember that God does not tempt anyone, as affirmed by the Apostle James (James 1:13). Therefore, we can understand, \\"Lead us not into adversity,\\" meaning let us not be led into such trials. This phrase reflects a unique expression within Scripture, as it seems to indicate that while God permits such temptations, He does not directly cause them. Every temptation comes from the devil, who cannot harm any person unless allowed by God, just as he cannot affect swine without divine permission. As we explore this further, it becomes clear that God may allow us to face temptation for our purification or to reveal our spiritual resilience, as demonstrated in the story of Job. Consequently, He instructs us to pray to avoid temptation; as the Shepherd of our souls, He sometimes allows it and at other times does not, according to what serves our best interest. Thus, when we are free from temptation, we should avert it through prayer; and when we are faced with it, we must resist with courage to exemplify both humility and strength.\\n\\nBut deliver us from the evil one. Here, the devil is referred to as evil—not inherently, but by his choice. He embodies the pinnacle of wickedness. By instructing us to seek liberation from him, it indicates the intense and relentless battle he wages against us, necessitating divine assistance. We are advised to focus our prayers solely on deliverance from him, as he is the true agent of all malevolence; we should rather pity those who, through their foolishness, succumb to him and cause us harm.\\n\\nMoreover, St. Maximus offers insight regarding the phrase, \\"Hallowed be Thy name.\\" The name of the Father is embodied in the Son. Just as a name clarifies the nature of its bearer, the Son reveals the Father to us. The kingdom is represented by the Holy Spirit through the richness of divine gifts. With Christ as our Head, He is sanctified when we, His members, lead lives of purity; thus, the Holy Spirit also comes to sanctify us. The will of the Father in heaven consists of honoring the heavenly powers rationally; as stated to David, \\"What is my will in heaven? Surely, it is only reasonable honor; and for you, O man, what do you wish for on earth?\\" (Psalm 72:25). The answer is reverence, which is essential and holds more value than anything else. This reasonable service is a heartfelt appeal to God, driven by a disdain for passions and demons, ignited by a deep yearning.\\n\\nOur sustenance is twofold: one aspect is spiritual, nourishing the essence of the soul according to the capacity of the recipients; the other is physical, satisfying bodily needs. The spiritual sustenance is given from above, while the physical comes from below. Similarly, temptation is twofold: it can arise from pleasures, which are voluntary and can lead to passion, or from sorrows, which are involuntary and can help diminish passions. The voluntary should be avoided, while the involuntary should be met with endurance, leveraging this as an opportunity for purification.\\n\\nThere exists another form of temptation pertaining to tests, whether stemming from an evil spirit or from wicked actions. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen. This concluding part of the prayer is an expression of gratitude and exaltation directed towards God. It signifies: May our petitions be granted, for You are our Sovereign, capable of all things, eternally glorious, as made clear by the phrase: forever and ever. The meaning of \\"Amen\\" has been addressed previously."},{"author-name":"Symeon of Thessalonica","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c897e26d8de9e2f4f210fd_Symeon%20of%20Thessalonica.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":15,"exegesis-text":"Do not lead us into trials, for we face numerous adversaries, filled with jealousy and perpetually antagonistic, alongside various temptations from demons, people, our own flesh, and the negligence of our souls. Trials touch everyone—those who are ascetic and those who do not seek salvation, the righteous even more so, as they are tested and exalted, necessitating even greater endurance. For while the spirit is willing, the flesh remains frail. Temptation can arise from our disdain for a brother, from misleading him, belittling him, or from being careless in the matters of godliness. Hence, we plead for God's mercy regarding our transgressions against Him and against our brethren, asking for forgiveness and protection from falling into temptation. Even if one is considered righteous, let him not place his trust in his own strength, for true righteousness is rooted in humility, compassion, and forgiving the failings of others. \\n\\nBut rescue us from the evil one, for he is a relentless and fierce adversary, and we are powerless against him, given his crafty and tireless nature. The evil one spins countless intrigues against us and constantly threatens us. If You, O Creator and Sovereign of all, including the devil and his followers, as well as the angels and ourselves, do not expel us from their reach, who could possibly do so? We lack the strength to perpetually withstand this envious, treacherous, and cunning foe. Therefore, deliver us from his grasp. \\n\\nFor Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Amen. Who would dare tempt and provoke those who are under your authority, O God of all creation, Lord of hosts? Who could challenge Your might? No one, for You have made and sustain them all. Who could stand against Your glory? Who has the courage? Who can encompass it? Heaven and earth are filled with it, and it surpasses the heavens and the angels; for You are one, ever-present and everlasting. \\n\\nYours is the glory, the kingdom, and the power of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen. This captures the essence of the Trisagion and the holy prayer: ‘Our Father.’ Every Orthodox Christian ought to be aware of this and offer it to God upon rising from slumber, leaving their homes, entering the holy temple, before and after meals, in the evening, and as they retire for the night. The prayers of the Trisagion and the Lord’s Prayer encompass all—acknowledgment of God, praises, humility, confession of sins, entreaties for their forgiveness, hopes for future graces, requests for necessities, renunciation of excess, trust in God, and prayers to be spared from temptation and the snares of the devil, allowing us to fulfill God's will, become His children, and partake in His kingdom. This is why the Church recites this prayer continually, both day and night."},{"author-name":"Peter of Kiev","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ddde144a394c69d270_Peter%20of%20Kiev.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":17,"exegesis-text":"In relation to the sixth supplication of the Lord's Prayer, we inquire: What does the sixth petition express? The response is: And lead us not into temptation. What does this petition entail? First, we implore God for deliverance from all trials; and if that is not possible, we seek His grace to help us withstand those temptations that exceed our capacity to endure. Some of these trials originate from the world, the adversary, and our own flesh, leading us toward sin. Others arise from the foes that battle against the Church through misleading teachings, flattering and deceptive words, fraudulent miracles, promises of wealth and fame, and ultimately through persecution, oppression, and compulsion. These trials may include the involuntary loss of our belongings and public humiliation, which we witness in our current time. In this petition, we also beseech God, if we must suffer for the testimony of His holy name, for His sacred bride, the Church, and for the veracity of His Gospel, to fortify us with His grace. This strength will enable us to face the torment we endure with steadfastness and courage until our last breath, allowing us to receive the crown of martyrdom in heaven, whilst ensuring we are not burdened with suffering greater than our strength can bear.\\n\\nAs for the seventh petition, we ask: What is the seventh petition? The answer is: But deliver us from the evil one. What does this supplication include? Initially, we request that God safeguard us from all wickedness, particularly from sin and every disgraceful act that provokes God’s wrath and vengeance. Additionally, we seek His grace to be present with us, to help us avoid the intensity of His anger, praying that He reprove us not in His fury nor punish us (Psalm 6:2) for our failings, but instead that we may approach Him with praise and joyful songs (Psalm 94:2). It is essential to acknowledge here that we seek liberation from all other severe misfortunes that humanity struggles with, such as famine, pestilence, warfare, fires, and more. We appeal to God’s love to avert these calamities from us. In this petition, we also request that at the time of our passing, He shield us from every trial posed by the enemy of our souls, granting us the grace to depart righteously and safely under His protection and the guidance of our guardian Angel. For blessed is the one who departs in such a manner. Therefore, it is vital for all of us to consistently ask God at our time of death to rescue us from the temptations and assaults of the devil. Ultimately, we plead for salvation from eternal torment in hell and from the wicked adversary.\\n\\nRegarding the conclusion of the Lord's Prayer, we inquire: What does this final part of the Lord's Prayer encompass? The answer is: This conclusion states: ‘Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.’ What does this conclusion convey? It comprises two segments: the first mirrors the introduction; just as the introduction reassures us that we shall receive from God those things we rightly ask for, this conclusion teaches us that all we request will be granted to us. For all creation belongs to our Father, as He reigns over it, and everything is subject to Him; He possesses the power and the glory that nothing can oppose, neither in heaven nor on earth. Therefore, He is capable of fulfilling all that we ask of Him in faith and hope, and all these requests are aimed solely at the everlasting glory of His holy name, as encapsulated in the phrase: ‘and glory forevermore.’ The second segment of the conclusion is found in the word: ‘Amen.’ This signifies our hope that all our requests will be realized as made in faith according to His will. The Apostle affirms: ‘And this is the boldness which we have towards Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He will hear us: and if we believe that He will hear us, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him’ (1 John 5:14-15).\\n\\nIs this conclusion linked to the Lord's Prayer? The answer is: Jesus Christ Himself, when finishing the prayer that He taught us, uttered these words, as is evident in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 6:13). The substance of the speech indicates that these words do not contradict the Lord's Prayer. In fact, prayer gains substantial power through them, as we approach Him whose might is manifest throughout the universe, and to whom all creations yield. While the laity may not vocalize these words, nothing prevents them from doing so. For the sake of emphasizing this prayer, during public worship, the Priest articulates these words, and in private prayers, he will do the same if he is present. If a Priest is absent, a layperson may still recite these words, along with other Gospel phrases, during private prayer. Thus, these words should always remain part of the Lord's Prayer, as their inclusion provides a sense of greater significance, as commanded by the Church."},{"author-name":"Wladimir (Bogojawlenski)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c898de9753dde91f8ba29f_Wladimir%20(Bogojawlenski).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"And lead us not into temptation. When we, dear brothers and sisters, humbly seek our Heavenly Father’s forgiveness through sincere prayer and experience the peace that comes with the blessed assurance of our sins being pardoned, we then focus on the life path set before us. How deeply we desire to preserve this joyous peace within our hearts, maintaining a clear connection to God's grace, and a steadfast devotion to Him and His desires! We wish to serve Him alone, committing our hearts and lives to Him with unwavering loyalty. Nonetheless, we recognize the uncertain terrain of our earthly journey and the weakness and inconsistency of our own hearts. This awareness brings fear when we confront our vulnerabilities and the enormity of our responsibilities. We lift our gaze to Him, our only guide through the challenges we face, praying: Father, lead us not into temptation. But what is it we express by this phrase, and how are we to understand the term temptation? Although it is written that God does not tempt anyone (James 1:13), Scripture does recount instances where God tested individuals, such as when He tested Abraham (Gen. 22:1) and during Israel's wanderings through the wilderness (Deut. 8:2). This indicates that the term tempt can carry different meanings. Often, we echo David’s plea, “Tempt me, O Lord, and try me” (Ps. 25:2), where he clarifies that the word refers to testing or trial, signifying examination and discernment. Certainly, this can be the work of God, who tested Abraham to prove the strength of his faith, and who examined Israel to assess their obedience to His commands.\\n\\nHowever, when we speak of temptation in the sense of seduction toward evil, it cannot be attributed to God. He does not contradict Himself by leading us to act against His own will. Therefore, James clarifies that no one should say, “God tempts me,” for God is not enticed by evil, nor does He entice anyone (James 1:13). But who, then, is responsible for such temptations? When we pray, “And lead us not into temptation,” we implore our Heavenly Father to protect us from the deceptions and snares of the devil, the world, and our sinful nature, ensuring they do not lead us into despair or moral failure. Should we find ourselves in temptation, we hope not only to endure, but to overcome it.\\n\\nThe devil, the world, and our flesh represent three formidable adversaries constantly urging us towards resistance against God’s good, merciful will designed for our salvation. The world, which opposes the faithful, does not hesitate to elicit temptation and provocation. As our Lord informed His disciples, the world would hate and persecute them, yet it is better to be reviled by the world than cherished by it, for its affection can entrap and ensnare. It is easier to bear the trials of persecution than to partake in the empty joys it offers. Just as a plant declines when rooted in poor soil, so too does our flesh lead us into temptation, making alliance with the devil and the world.\\n\\nPaul reminds us that no good dwells in our flesh (Rom. 7:18) and that while the spirit is willing, the flesh is frail (Matthew 26:41). Thus, our flesh continually inclines us toward the world’s vain allurements, the pride of life, indulgence in comfort, and the reluctance to endure the cross we are called to bear alongside Christ. These adversaries are the sources of our ongoing struggle, as their triumph leads to the loss of faith's consolation, despair, and great sin. Stubbornness begets dissatisfaction, and hardness of heart leads us to hopelessness. When this despair consumes us, we might claim, \\"My sins are too great to be forgiven.” Even as a spirit once cast out returns with even greater oppression, we find ourselves in a dire predicament, fearing we may fall victim to these temptations; hence we pray: Father, do not lead us into temptation.\\n\\nWe know we cannot escape trials while in this mortal body, and deliverance from such trials will only come when our Heavenly Father calls us to Himself, freeing us from all strife. However, we also discern the value of enduring various temptations in this life as they cultivate humility and protect us from pride. Such experiences awaken our sense of weakness, prompting us to rely wholly on God’s grace. Clearly, Christians are expected to face challenges, and desiring to avoid all temptation would be akin to a soldier praying, “Lead me not into battle,” or a sailor saying, “Lead me not into the sea.”\\n\\nYet, we must remain conscious of our frail hearts. The example of Peter serves as a reminder; in his misplaced confidence, he declared he would never deny Christ (Matthew 26:33), yet he fell into temptation. Who can confidently assert they will resist and triumph over trials? No one willingly seeks out temptation or requests to be tested. Thus, we often pray: Father, do not lead us into temptation, expressing, “O Most Blessed Father, you know my frail heart. You understand my innermost struggles. Do not let me succumb when I stumble. Lift me when I fall, and should temptation arise, grant me Your support, that I may overcome rather than be defeated.” How blessed we are to seek our Father’s help and nurture the hope that He will respond, as every father listens to their child imploring for assistance. \\n\\nHowever, be wise, dear friend, to not hinder the effectiveness of this prayer by walking into the very temptations from which you seek deliverance. Those who carelessly place themselves in harm's way may find themselves ensnared. Consider what led Peter to the high priest's palace, where he faced temptation. Steer clear of situations, locations, and associations that might endanger you, especially those in which you have previously stumbled. Arm yourself with courage to confront temptations. Seek fellowship with devout, God-fearing individuals. Our Master wisely sent His disciples in pairs, not alone. Be vigilant against anything that draws you away from God and His Savior. Avoid places where wicked individuals congregate, and do not separate yourself from the light of the Word of God and prayer, which shields you in trouble, rescues us from peril, and is heard by our Father when we call upon Him in Christ’s name.\\n\\nTherefore, do not be disheartened, beloved, no matter how much the devil, the world, and your flesh assail you. Our God is stronger than any force that opposes Him. If God is for us, who can stand against us? When Peter, overwhelmed by the waves, called out to God, he experienced His saving hand lifting him from despair. In times of temptation, God can extend His hand toward you as well, commanding the waves: “Be still!” He places burdens in accordance with the strength He has given us. As the apostle Paul assures, we are not pressed beyond our capability, for God is faithful and provides a way of escape during trials (1 Cor. 10:13). Hold fast to your hope; lift your eyes to the mountain of heavenly reward prepared for the faithful strugglers and victors. Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial, for once they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life promised to those who love Him (James 1:12).\\n\\nDeliver us from the evil one. We arrive at the final request of the Lord’s Prayer, a plea cherished even by those who may otherwise disregard the act of prayer. Everyone desires liberation from the evil one. If we were to follow our natural inclination, we might wish to place this seventh petition at the forefront, pleading, “Father, deliver us from the evil one,” then adding, “Hallowed be Thy name.” Yet, altering the order established by our Lord would not serve us well. Jesus placed this request at the conclusion for a reason; it can only bear fruit after the first petitions—the hallowing of God’s name, the arrival of His kingdom, and the fulfillment of His will—have been granted. What value is it to be freed from what we perceive as evil if the root of all evil—sin—remains in us, leaving us as children of the world, enslaved to the devil, estranged from the true knowledge of God, and opposing His divine will? \\n\\nThus, in this seventh petition, we seek deliverance not merely from physical suffering, but from every adversity affecting our souls, from sin and its progenitor, the devil, from anything disrupting our peace of mind that distances us from our Father and the joy of His presence. We encapsulate all these pleas into one request at the end of our prayer, imploring our Heavenly Father to tenderly care for us and deliver us from all that ensnares. When we ask God to “deliver us from the evil one” or simply “deliver us from evil,” we seek protection from all harmful things. This ultimately points to the devil who obstructs our pursuit of God’s glory and honor, the coming of His kingdom, and the fulfillment of His divine will. \\n\\nTherefore, we implore: “Merciful God, protect us from misfortunes. Remove any harmful forces arising from the kingdom of darkness: poverty, illness, and death, as well as all calamities and afflictions that overwhelm us.” In summary, the seventh petition expresses our desire that the Heavenly Father shields us from all forms of evil, both of the body and mind, and when our final hour arrives, grants us a blessed ending, taking us peacefully to Heaven, away from this world full of troubles and tribulations. This encompasses the essence of the seventh plea to our Heavenly Father. \\n\\nIn light of this, children of God are innately blessed even while here on earth. They have a compassionate Father who provides abundantly for their physical and spiritual needs each day. They enjoy peace with God, the solace of forgiven sins, and un hinders access to their Father’s heart. They are never helpless nor alone in life’s challenges, knowing their Father hears their cries: “Lead us not into temptation.” Praise and thanks be to God! The Father responds when we call upon Him in times of trouble, turning His ear toward our distress, delivering us from the evil one. Our God is a Savior; His might stands firm against the forces of death (Ps. 67:21). In times of difficulty, He rescues us; we shall not be harmed during our struggles (Job 5:19). The Lord promises, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me” (Ps. 49:15). His deliverance may not align with human expectations or reasoning. He doesn’t always reveal when or how He will intervene, and often, His faithful must endure prolonged trials. Yet, even in hardship, salvation can emerge. Patients develop in crushing trials, and the fruit of justification grows within our hearts under divine chastisement. \\n\\nIn trials, we acknowledge His wiser plans and learn to surrender our will completely to His. The allure of worldly pleasures diminishes as our senses are refined, leading us to praise His mercy amidst our trials. Such trials become lighter burdens and enable us to carry our crosses with joy. What sweetness fills our hearts amid life’s uncertainties! What abundant blessings flow into our homes and lives during suffering! The hand of our Savior, who attentively responds to the prayers of His children, is evident. Thus, when you find yourself in suffering, do not pray solely for relief, but rather follow the example of Christ and pray: “Father, glorify Your name” (John 12:28). Request that in your trials, God’s holy name receive glory through your perseverance. Submit yourself to His will, trusting that all things work together for good for those who love Him. \\n\\nCan God not alleviate every burden so subtly that we feel no strain? See how the saints of old and new endure their challenges cheerfully, unconcerned by pain, humiliation, or torment! They comfort those who suffer even in the face of death, joyfully singing praises despite their circumstances, knowing that God has provided them deliverance even through affliction. Ultimately, we must consider that the heaviest burdens and most prolonged trials pale before the glory we will know in heaven, delivered from every evil. \\n\\nThe time will come for each of us when we transcend earthly troubles. Yet, will freedom from earthly hardship suffice if we remain under the ultimate evil—eternal judgment and death? Happy indeed is the Christian who, filled with faith and hope at death’s door, can pray as instructed by Christ: “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46). What does earthly suffering or physical death mean in light of such promise? Soon our Savior will come! Comfort those who are ill or grieving with these words: “Soon you shall weep no more,” and “Soon you will find rest!” After the fierce battle, we look forward to the victorious day that grants us the deliverance we eagerly await, rejoicing in God’s provision: “When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream” (Ps. 125:1). The Lord will wipe away tears, and death, mourning, and pain will be no more (Rev. 21:4). In glory, we’ll lift our voices not merely to plead, “Deliver us from the evil one,” but instead to praise and sing forever to God, who answered our prayers and liberated us from evil. \\n\\nThe Lord has done great things for us; we rejoice (Ps. 125:3). Come, day of salvation, bring the freedom we long for, the eternal deliverance we seek. Come, Lord our God, our Savior! Reveal Yourself and end the captivity of Your people! We await Your salvation. Schedule your mercy upon Your inheritance. Observe the distress of Your people, and liberate us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Amen. \\n\\nBeloved, the final words of the Lord’s Prayer, which conclude His instruction to us in prayer, may not appear in the accounts where He initially taught His disciples. They are also absent from the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus responds to the request to be taught to pray. However, it is evident that the early Church embraced these words as a closing, and they were recited by the congregation after the Lord’s Prayer. The custom of affirming a prayer with an “Amen” has roots in the Old Testament and continued in the New Testament Church. These concluding words resonate with the essence of Scripture and serve fittingly as a solemn finale to this prayer. \\n\\nThey are not mere expressions of praise; they encapsulate our confidence and conviction that our petitions are neither in vain nor unheard. By proclaiming that the kingdom, power, and glory belong to God, we remind ourselves of our assurance, quelling doubts as we pray. “Yours is the kingdom” signifies that sovereignty belongs solely to the Father, not to the so-called ruler of this world, however formidable his reign may appear. Despite his machinations to establish a lasting kingdom through deception, this is contrary to our Heavenly Father’s benevolent will, who desires the salvation of all (1 Tim. 2:4). \\n\\nTo this end, He did not spare His only Son but sent Him forth to proclaim the gospel to all creation, empowering us through the Holy Spirit that we might believe and that the kingdoms of the earth would become the kingdom of our God and Christ. He has the ability to fulfill His intentions, as signaled by the might of His right hand. Truly, our God reigns over heaven and earth, executing His will (Ps. 113:11). \\n\\nA wise theologian once observed that some tremble at the thought of the universe collapsing due to a lack of support, believing they could bolster the heavens with their understanding. Instead, do not fear that God’s power will falter; fear only that His might will not rise to judge you. But if His Spirit assures you that you are genuinely His child, do not be dismayed by the overwhelm of worldly pressures. Take solace in the strength of your faith in God’s omnipotence and hope in His indomitable power.\\n\\n“To You belongs the glory.” Honor, respect, and adoration are due solely to our Heavenly Father, who shares His glory with no other. Worldly glory is fleeting; thrones of worldly power will crumble to dust, while God's throne remains steadfast. He alone is eternal and will retain His glory when the accolades of those who deny His name fade away. For His is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. He is both willing and capable of accomplishing all things according to His will and eternal purpose, to His glory and for our benefit. A Christian should thus not focus on the mountains of worldly worries filling the horizon; instead, they should lift their gaze to the Father from whom their help comes (Ps. 120:1) and boldly affirm their “Amen.” \\n\\nAmen, a Hebrew term used in the old covenant, signifies truthfulness and affirmation. It conveys certainty: “This is true; so be it.” Our Amen expresses that the prayers we offer are not in vain and delight our Father, who has commanded us to pray in this manner and promised to listen. Amen also reflects our conviction that God will indeed respond. We recognize that we approach Him unworthy, and our worthiness does not affect His willingness to hear us. Our confidence stems not from our merit, but from Christ’s merits and our Father’s grace, pleading for His gifts out of His compassion, for the sake of Jesus. \\n\\nIn Jesus’ name is the assurance I hold most closely during times of sin and spiritual distress. Even when I may not deserve what I ask, my requests can still please Him, and I confidently declare, “Amen.” Persist in this affirmation even when you seem to receive no response to your heartfelt prayers. If in dire circumstances you cry, “Give us this day our daily bread,” and your hardship seems to magnify, do not cease to confirm your prayer with an Amen, which is more reliable than the widow’s oil or Elijah’s miraculous bread. \\n\\nLift your eyes above earthly desires and the hunger of your family, resting assured that your prayers have merit. Be resolute in believing that your Father hears and grants the requests of His children. Trust in this word “Amen” when appealing for your children: “Let Thy kingdom come (to them),” even when results appear distant, for your tears and fervent prayers will not be in vain. \\n\\nHold steadfastly to “Amen” as you confront the trappings of the world, the flesh, and the devil, calling out ardently: “Father, lead us not into temptation.” Even as temptations surge in waves, fear for your faith's resilience. All that you aspire towards is powerful and true. God never abandons those who seek Him; instead, He equips and sustains our faith unto the end. \\n\\nEven when you humbly bow before Him to glorify His name amid overwhelming evidence to the contrary—where His name is not revered, where wickedness proliferates—believe that what you originally prayed remains valid. The bright day will come; the glory of the Lord will surely flood the earth as water fills the sea. One day, the kingdoms of this world will shoulder the sovereignty of our Lord and His Christ, and wickedness will be vanquished. Therefore, brothers and sisters, let “Amen” be a steadfast and unwavering declaration, with the certainty that your sincere prayers, aligned with His will, will not be dismissed but will surely receive God’s affirmation in His perfect timing. \\n\\nMay this realization be granted to us, O Most Merciful God and our Father! Lead us through our Savior, Christ. May We always adhere firmly to the “Amen” and may He grant it through His glorious affirmation. Amen."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Lead us not into temptation. Generally, temptation refers to the testing of moral capacities by encouraging immoral behavior (see note on Mt. 4:1). In this regard, it is affirmed that God does not tempt anyone (James 1:13) nor incite anyone to sin or commit wrongdoing; however, He permits temptation for humanity. Since God governs all aspects of the world and nothing occurs without His consent, it is often stated that God Himself sends temptations or tests. (Yet, it is important to note that certain trials, like the testing of Abraham’s faith, are directly from God). When a Christian implores God not to lead them into temptation, they are not pleading against the temptation itself, but rather requesting not to be tested beyond their capacity and at the same time seeking divine strength to prevail over such trials. This reflects humility and an acknowledgment of our inherent weakness. We find ourselves so frail that we cannot withstand any form of temptation, thus we beseech Thee, O Lord, to refrain from sending temptation upon us; but if it must come, please grant us the fortitude to triumph over it and ensure that it does not exceed our strength (cf.: Chrysostom and Theophylact). From the evil one. This encompasses deliverance from all forms of evil—spiritual and physical—particularly from sin, which is the utmost evil and the source of all wrongs. Recognizing that the devil embodies the spirit of evil, we ask for liberation from him (cf.: Chrysostom and Theophylact), along with his malicious deeds and accusations through these words. Thy... Kingdom. The entire universe, along with the gracious realm of Thy Church, is under Your sovereignty. And power. You possess the authority to grant or deny anything we petition in prayer. And glory. Glory belongs to You—not to us, but to You—radiating throughout creation, both seen and unseen, and enduring forever and ever. Amen. This Hebrew term signifies affirmation—truly, indeed, let it be so. It was often spoken by the congregation in synagogues following the prayers led by an individual, and by family members during specific religious occasions, such as feasts, after prayers offered by the head of the household or the eldest member. Consequently, it became part of the Christian liturgy (cf. 1 Cor. 14:16)."},{"author-name":"Philaret of Moscow (Drosdow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ffb7a2ebaf99e46539_Philaret%20of%20Moscow%20(Drosdow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"WHAT IS OUR UNDERSTANDING OF TEMPTATION? In the Lord's Prayer, temptation refers to situations where there is a significant risk of losing faith or succumbing to serious sin. WHERE DO TEMPTATIONS ORIGINATE? Temptations arise from our sinful nature, from worldly influences, from other individuals, and from the adversary. WHAT IS IMPLIED IN THE PHRASE 'LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION'? By stating 'Lead us not into temptation,' we request that God does not permit us to be tempted and, if testing and refining through temptation is necessary, that He does not abandon us to complete temptation or allow us to fall. WHAT DOES THE PHRASE 'DELIVER US FROM THE EVIL ONE' REQUEST? When we say 'Deliver us from the evil one,' we seek liberation from all the wickedness present in the world, which, since the original sin, has left it 'all lies in evil' (1 John 5:19); particularly from the malice and harmful suggestions and accusations of the evil spirit—the devil. WHY IS GLORIFICATION INCLUDED IN THE LORD'S PRAYER? Glorification is added to the Lord's Prayer so that, as we approach our heavenly Father seeking blessings, we also render Him the honor due to Him; and by contemplating His eternal kingdom, power, and glory, we may grow ever more assured in our hope that He will fulfill our petitions, as it lies within His authority and contributes to His glory. WHAT DOES THE TERM AMEN REPRESENT? The term amen translates to truly or may it be so. By concluding the prayer with amen, we express that our prayer is made in faith and without reservation, as taught by the Apostle James (see James 1:6)."}]}
Support this project and get full access for only 4$/month
Commentarie text can’t be scrolled on PC at the moment. Please use your phone. We’re working on a fix.
