Matthew 4:1

People's Bible Notes for Matthew 4:1

Mt 4:1 The Temptation, and Christ's Ministry in Galilee SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 4: Jesus in the Wilderness. The Tempter. The Temptation to Convert Stones into Bread. The Temptation to Cast Himself from the Temple. The Offer of Worldly Power and Glory. Ministering Angels. The Galilean Ministry. Disciples Called. Preaching and Healing. The Fame of Christ. Then was Jesus led of the Spirit. Mark says he was "driven" by the Spirit, a phrase that indicates a sudden and forcible impulsion. See Mr 1:12. Into the wilderness. Tradition has placed the scene of Christ's temptation in that part of the wilderness of Judea which lies between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, and particularly in the mountain called Quarantania, from this forty days' fast. To be tempted. Christ must be tempted (1) Because it was impossible that one who came to overthrow the kingdom of Satan should not be attacked by the great adversary at the very threshold. (2) It was to test him. (3) It was to prepare him, by being tempted like as we are, and yet gaining the victory, to "succor them that are tempted" (Heb 2:18). (4) It was to set an example for us when we are tempted. The three great temptations mentioned by Matthew are the three great classes of temptations to which men are now exposed. Of the devil. Here the existence and personality of Satan are placed before us in the most distinct language. The devil is (1) A person (Eph 2:2 6:12 Heb 2:14 Jude 1:6); (2) A fallen angel (Joh 8:44 2Pe 2:4 Jude 1:6). The word "devil" means false accuser.