Matthew 4:Jesus is Tested

Jesus Is Tested in the Wilderness

In Matthew 3 Jesus had just been baptized and then was sent right into the wilderness. He fasted for 40 days and he was hungry! Then the tempter came to test him.

Reading in my new study bible it is written that these tests were significant because they were done in private; not for the world to see. Jesus could have used his power to just shoo them away, but that would be against what His Father wanted and that would be a sin. He had many chances to do wrong.  Jesus’s temptations were REAL! He was tempted in every way; just as we are – yet without sin.

The first temptation to show his power was when the tempter said make these stones into bread IF you really are the son of God!! The devil was not questioning that Jesus was the son of God, he was wanting to use Jesus’ power to benefit himself. Now this could help him; meaning he would have “good intentions” Jesus’ answer instead was:

⁴ Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’^[b]”

Then the devil took him to the highest temple and told Jesus to fall, indeed God would save his son. Jesus replied.

⁷ Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.

The devil’s third attempt he took Jesus to a mountain top and said ALL of this land could be yours if you bow down to me! Jesus did not fall for this; he replied.

¹⁰ Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’^[e]”

The devil left. Jesus used the weapon we all have; the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. He met all these temptations with the truth of the Word. NOt only did the devil leave, but let’s not forget the angels came to take care of him!!! He used God’s word to force the devil to leave, but he is not left alone, God takes care of us through out the whole battle.