Theory question 105
Baptism and Temptation of JesusSection B (Themes from the Synoptic Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles)
(a) Describe the temptations of Jesus as recorded in the gospel of Matthew. (b) In what three ways were the temptations significant to Jesus in his ministry?
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(a) The Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness; He fasted forty days and was hungry (Matthew 4:1-2).
The tempter said, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves" (Matthew 4:3).
Jesus: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word… of God" (Matthew 4:4).
On the pinnacle of the temple the devil told Him to throw Himself down, quoting Psalm 91 (Matthew 4:5-6).
Jesus: "You shall not tempt the Lord your God" (Matthew 4:7).
From a high mountain the devil offered all the kingdoms if Jesus would worship him (Matthew 4:8-9).
Jesus: "Begone, Satan! You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve" (Matthew 4:10).
The devil left and angels ministered to Him (Matthew 4:11).
(b) Any three: He rejected being a material, sensational or political Messiah; He proved His obedience to God; He relied on scripture; it prepared Him for His ministry; He can help those who are tempted (Hebrews 2:18).
Narrate Matthew 4:1-11, then three points.