When Jesus is under attack - February 18
Jesus experiences a spiritual high in baptism and immediately encounters a spiritual low in Chapter 4. Call it gravity “What comes up must come down.” Or call it the sinful influence of the world. Whatever we label it we encounter the evil whether we like it or not. How we respond is the key Matt. 4-5 (ESV).
After 40 days of fasting and seclusion in the wilderness the devil attacks Jesus where it hurts the most, tempting him with opportunities that would make his ministry seemingly much easier.
- First, Satan tempted him with food. “You’re hungry. Use your power to turn stones to bread!”
- Second, Satan plants a marketing scheme in his mind. “If you throw yourself down from the temple everyone will see you get rescued by the angels. This is good stewardship saving time, suffering and using resources (angels) wisely.”
- Third, Satan offers him all the kingdoms of the world. “If you bow down and worship. I’ll give you all of it.
Each attack is progressively stronger and more enticing. What I marvel at is how quickly Satan moves on to Plan B and C and finally “I’m out of here!” After each attack Jesus turned to the Word. He wasn’t witty or aggressive just armed with God’s word and the devil could not stand.
This Satan is so cunning. In his second attack he even quoted scripture to get Jesus to jump from the temple. He is smart, but he knows who is in charge. He can tempt us in our weakest areas (just like he tempted Jesus in his hunger), but he doesn’t make us sin. Let’s follow Jesus example.
I am so happy that we are taking Lent to go through the Gospels.
What I envision now is a whole congregation being armed with the Word of God. Satan’s attacks won’t end until Jesus says “enough!” The good thing we do know is that our God is our defender and His word is our strength!
I’m going to keep arming myself, how about you?
What else did you read that jumped off the page for Ch. 3-4? Post your questions or comments here.