Lexical Summary stigmé: Moment, Point in Time Original Word: στιγμή Strong's Exhaustive Concordance moment. Feminine of stigma; a point of time, i.e. An instant -- moment. see GREEK stigma NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom the same as stigma Definition a point, i.e. a moment NASB Translation moment (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4743: στιγμήστιγμή, στιγμης, ἡ (στίζω; see στίγμα, iuit.), a point: στιγμή χρόνου, a point (i. e. a moment) of time (Cicero, pro Flacco c. 25; pro Sest. 24; Caesar b. c. 2, 14; others), Luke 4:5. (Antoninus 2, 17; Plutarch, puer. educ. 17; Isaiah 29:5; 2 Macc. 9:11.) Topical Lexicon Occurrence in Scripture Strong’s Greek 4743 appears once in the New Testament: “And the devil led Him up and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in an instant of time” (Luke 4:5). The single use occurs within the temptation narrative, underscoring the swiftness with which Satan presents his enticements to the Lord Jesus Christ. Time and Temptation The vocabulary of speed in Luke 4:5 paints temptation as a sudden, seemingly irresistible flash. Scripture frequently portrays the devil as seizing opportune moments (Ephesians 4:27). Here, the instantaneous panorama of earthly power illustrates how rapid impressions can captivate the senses and aim to derail obedience. The believer therefore learns that spiritual assaults often come without warning, demanding constant vigilance (1 Peter 5:8). Fleeting Moments versus Eternal Realities Luke contrasts the temporal lure of “all the kingdoms of the world” with the eternal reign that the Son already possesses (Hebrews 1:8). Other passages reinforce this tension: “For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). What flashes before us is transient; what God promises endures forever (1 John 2:17). The single “moment” in which Satan operates exposes the brevity of worldly grandeur compared to the everlasting kingdom of God. Related Biblical Imagery Though expressed with different Greek terms, Scripture repeatedly highlights decisive instants that alter destinies. “In an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet…the dead will be raised imperishable” (1 Corinthians 15:52). A thief comes “in an hour when you do not expect” (Matthew 24:44). Such verses echo the idea that both divine intervention and demonic attack may transpire suddenly, calling believers to readiness. Historical and Patristic Reflection Early Christian teachers—such as Justin Martyr and Irenaeus—saw in Luke 4 a deliberate contrast between the flash of satanic spectacle and the unfolding drama of salvation history. They emphasized that the devil can only offer illusions, whereas Christ imparts reality. The fathers urged believers to measure every fleeting attraction against the eternal covenant inaugurated by the cross and resurrection. Practical Ministry Application 1. Spiritual Alertness: Pastors and teachers should remind congregations that temptations often arrive quickly, packaged in enticing impressions. Daily disciplines of prayer and Scripture enable believers to evaluate split-second choices. Eschatological Overtones The instantaneous vision in Luke 4:5 foreshadows a future moment when Christ will decisively reclaim every kingdom (Revelation 11:15). Just as Satan flaunted world powers in a heartbeat, the Lord will in a single event manifest His sovereign rule. Believers live between these two moments, resisting present lures while anticipating the imminent appearing of the King of kings. Forms and Transliterations στιγμη στιγμή στιγμῇ στικτά στιλβώσει stigme stigmē stigmêi stigmē̂iLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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