Jesus had to face temptations. By facing and resisting the pull to sin, Jesus could be the sacrifice for our sins and defeat the power of Satan, sin, and death (Heb. 2:9-18).
As He faced these temptations, Jesus referred to Scripture from Deuteronomy 6-8 which contained Moses’ final words to Israel. Jesus faced the same challenges that ancient Israel faced. But, Jesus was faithful where Israel failed.
Satan tempted Him to turn stones into bread. What was wrong with that? Jesus quoted Deuteronomy 8:2-3 where Moses said that God gave Israel manna in the wilderness to teach them to depend on Him and His will. Jesus is saying He will trust His Father’s will. He never took a step without His Father’s will guiding Him (Jn. 6:38). Real life is about listening to God, not eating bread.
Then Satan told Jesus to jump off the temple to test if God would catch Him. Satan even quoted from Psalm 91 where God had promised to protect His people. But, Jesus balanced Satan’s use of Scripture. He cited Deuteronomy 6:16 which says that God should not be tested. Israel needed to learn, and Jesus demonstrated here, that God’s promises are not made so we can push the limits, but so we’ll trust Him.
Finally, Satan offered Him all the kingdoms of the world– if Jesus would worship him. Was Satan in a position to offer this? People had given their loyalty to him in the way they thought, spoke, and acted (see Jn. 12:31; II Cor. 4:4). But, Jesus already had the promise of a kingdom. But, this would be reign without the sacrifice that the Father’s will demanded. But, it would require Jesus to break off His loyalty to the Father and give allegiance to Satan. He refused. Only God is worthy of worship. Jesus knew His path to glory and power would require sacrifice and suffering.
Lessons to Learn:
The Scriptures equip us against temptation. He didn’t avoid sin by miraculous power, but said, “It is written.” He was quoting 1,500 year old passages. It was still relevant! We know what God wants by His word. Back to the Bible!
Satan might use Scripture. People teach false things and even use Bible passages. We find truth when all of God’s word is taken together, not by plucking verses out of context.
Jesus knows our struggle. He endured temptations, in every way we do, without sin. These were not the only temptations He faced. So, He is ready to help as we seek to be faithful (Heb. 2:17-18; 4:14-16).
We’re thankful to share these considerations of God’s word. It’s best if you have a Bible close to evaluate what we say. We want to go “back to the Bible” for all we teach.
Reach out with your questions, comments, or requests for personal Bible study at backtothebiblepodcast.com or at #1155cc;">info@backtothebiblepodcast.com
