| Matthew 4:9
| And said to him: All these will I give thee, if falling down thou wilt adore me.
| All these will I give thee. The father of lies here promised what was not his to give. For though he be called the prince of this world, (John 12:31,) meaning of the wicked, who wilfully make themselves his slaves; yet so restrained is the devil's power, that he could not go into the swine till Christ permitted it. (Matthew 8:31.) (Witham) --- What arrogance! what pride! The devil promises earthly kingdoms, whilst Jesus promises a heavenly kingdom to his followers. (St. Remigius) Behold the pride of his heart; as he formerly wished to make himself God, so now he wishes to assume to himself divine honours. (St. Aquinas)
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