Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22; John 1:29-34; Luke 3:23-38;

Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13; John 1:35-4:45

His human nature left Jesus wide open to temptation. He HAD to be able to be tempted or else He would not truly be without sin. These temptations HAD to be real and there HAD to be a chance Jesus would fail the test, or else the temptations were not real to Him. His ministry on earth began with the 40 days and the temptations in the wilderness and ended on the cross. These two agonies were the bookends to our redemption.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 4:15-16

In Jesus, God proved Himself worthy to take our place as an unblemished offering for sin. In so doing, He gives us assurance that we can turn to Him for help in the thing for which we are perfectly helpless. In Jesus’ ministry He will be tested and will prove Himself with miracles and wonders. He will be tested and prove Himself with truth. Jesus passes every test.

When Nicodemus came to Jesus he already believed he was “from God” because of the wonders Jesus performed. In their encounter, Jesus encouraged him to move beyond the physical to the spiritual and see the full implications of these things he saw with his eyes. The same challenge lies before us. Look at the record of Jesus’ ministry and life, then look beyond for the spiritual impact of these things. Jesus did not come to perform miracles and heal people. He came to save. So, when Jesus uttered what many consider to be the “golden text” of the Bible, he was telling Nicodemus “You believe I am a teacher from God, but you need to believe that I am God, the Son of God.” Jesus taught a learned teacher of Israel to look to the scriptures and then compare those truth to Jesus.

I find it fascinating that Satan comes to Jesus with scripture (out of context) and even the plan of God (kingdoms for a king). Like he does with us, however, the father of lies twists and distorts and offers cheap counterfeits. His hate for God spills over onto you. Through it all, “God With Us” responds with truth. The Word of God actually quotes scripture. Think on this BEFORE you are tempted next…

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.

Proverbs 3:5-8

If you prepare your heart, you will stretch out your hands toward him. If iniquity is in your hand, put it far away, and let not injustice dwell in your tents. Surely then you will lift up your face without blemish; you will be secure and will not fear. You will forget your misery; you will remember it as waters that have passed away. And your life will be brighter than the noonday; its darkness will be like the morning. And you will feel secure, because there is hope; you will look around and take your rest in security. You will lie down, and none will make you afraid; many will court your favor. But the eyes of the wicked will fail; all way of escape will be lost to them, and their hope is to breathe their last.

Job 11:13-20

Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

1 Corinthians 10:12-13

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.

James 4:7-10

The Word of God tells us these great truths. In Jesus, the Word comes to life and Jesus actually shows us these great truths. My only hope to resist Satan is the way He showed me. I must trust in His way, not my own. My strength is insufficient, but God will bear me up and guide me away from trouble.

When tempted, I must resist the devil … or, resist God. One choice is safety, the other is sin.

Consider His nature.  Consider His ways.  Strive to love Him more!