Jesus Tempted by the Devil

Right after his baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Join us in this fascinating study into the language of the wilderness temptation where it becomes clear why Jesus experienced this challenge.

Key Verse:

“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” (Matthew 4:1)

Outline:

Introduction

  • Popular view and review of some key principles we’ve learned from previous episodes
  • Overview of the baptism of Jesus and the three temptations (Matt. 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13)
    • After a period of forty days and nights without food or water Jesus is tempted to turn stones into bread.
    • Taken to the “holy city” Jerusalem at the pinnacle of the temple tempted to throw himself down and be saved by the angels.
    • Taken to an “exceeding high mountain” where he sees the kingdoms of men “in a moment of time” (Luke 4:5) and tempted to become king immediately.

Why is he led or driving of the Spirit into the wilderness?

  • Where else is this terminology used? (Ezek. 8:3; 37:1; 40:2; Rev. 17:3; 21:10)
  • Is the temptation in the wilderness a vision? What is a vision?

The Satan of Zechariah

  • The visions of Zechariah (Zech. 3:1-5)
  • The historical background (Ezra 4:1-6; 5:1)

The Purpose of the Jesus’ Wilderness Vision

  • When and how was Jesus tempted throughout his life?
    • Matt. 16:1 – Seeking a sign
    • John 6:15 – make bread and become king
    • Luke 4:29 – attempt to throw him off a cliff
    • Luke 11:53-54 – catch him in his words to accuse him
  • The wilderness temptation was foreshadowing the temptations to come (Luke 22:28).
  • Who then does the Satan represent in the vision?

 

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Overcoming Temptation

With all this talk about sin on the podcast lately, it’s about time we discuss some practical matters on how to overcome temptation. Stephen joins Tim to discuss the Biblical definition of temptation and provide examples and stories to help us in our fight against sin. Find out what it means to “not pack a snack for the flesh”.

Key Verse:

“Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.” James 1:13-14

Show Notes:

Temptation Defined

  • Temptation a major topic of the Bible from Genesis
  • James 1:12-14 defines temptation and our need for God
  • Desires are not bad in themselves (Luke 22:15)
  • The worlds overwhelming temptations. Lusts that war against our souls (1 Peter 2:11)

Recognize Temptation

  • Where temptation originates (James 1:13)
  • The example of Samson (Judges 13&14)
  • The categories of lusts in the world (1 John 2:15-16)

Overcoming Temptation and Sin

  • Jesus’ instruction in the Lord’s prayer (Matthew 6:13)
  • Taking God’s escape route, fleeing temptation (1 Corinthians 10:12-14)
  • Practical points: David (Proverbs 28:13), Paul (Romans 7:18-23)
  • Do not make provision for the flesh (Romans 13:14)

Practical Points for Discipleship

  • The need for prayer (Philippians 4:6-7)
  • Guards – why you have them, how to implement
  • Jesus’ example in the wilderness temptation using the word of God (Matthew 4)