Luke 4:12 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Thou shalt not tempt, &c.— See on Matthew 4:7. To tempt God, in the sense in which the phrase is here used, is, to make an improper trial of his power. The expression of our Saviour may likewise be interpreted, as signifying that the scripture forbids us to prescribe to God in what instances he shall exert his power; and as we are not to rush into danger without a call, in expectation of extraordinary deliverance, so neither are we to dictate to divine wisdom what miracles shall be wrought for men's conviction. Probably in this and the preceding temptations the devil transformed himself into an angel of light, or assumed the appearance of a good spirit, hoping the better to deceive Jesus. See the Inferences.