The following "Question" was asked by a member of the congregation at Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, and "Answered" by their pastor, John MacArthur Jr. It was transcribed from the tape, GC 1301-J, titled "Bible Questions and Answers Part 12."  A copy of the tape can be obtained by writing, Word of Grace, P.O. Box 4000, Panorama City, CA 91412 or by dialing toll free 1-800-55-GRACE. ©1980. All Rights Reserved.

Question

In Matthew 4 where Jesus was tempted by the devil, I believe He answered three times a scripture out of Deuteronomy. Do you think that’s just a coincidence that they’re all three out of the book of Deuteronomy?

Answer

No, it’s not a coincidence. It is because Deuteronomy is the summation of all the Old Testament Law. Deuteronomy, you might say is to the Old Testament what Romans is to the New. Deuteronomy takes the Pentateuch and builds it into summary fashion. Deuteronomy is the gospel of the Old Testament, and I think He drew them to Deuteronomy because Deuteronomy more than any other book sums up the Law of God.

Added to Bible Bulletin Board's "MacArthur’s Questions and Answers" by:

Tony Capoccia
Bible Bulletin Board
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Columbus, New Jersey, USA, 08022
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Email: tony@biblebb.com
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