Chapter 4
Jesus comes out of Egypt, passes through the water, and enters the wilderness. God has stated, “this is my beloved Son”, but as we study the temptation story we will see if he proves faithful. He is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. While God is using this test to prove the validity of his claim, Satan will tempt and destroy him.
Satan devises a series of 3 temptations following Jesus 40 day fast. Satan strikes at him where he is most vulnerable and seeks to cause him to use his power to satisfy his desire for food. He wants him to bypass the Father. He seems to be saying if you are the Son then why hasn’t God provided for you in the wilderness. Jesus confronts him by quoting an Old Testament passage that reveals that he trusts God to provide.
Next Satan seeks to use what Jesus said in the first temptation to tempt him in the second. It is kind of like when you were a kid and made a claim and then your friends would say prove it. If you really trust God, then put God to the test. Jesus again quoting from Deuteronomy combats Satan’s schemes. Satan is like the false teachers who tells us to force God’s hand and claim the blessings we deserve. Instead Jesus demonstrates humble trust.
Lastly Satan seems to go after the most difficult thing Jesus will face. He offers Jesus the kingdoms of this world if he would worship him. This confronts the problem Israel and all humanity faces, idolatry. Jesus again quotes from the same book. Jesus temptations mirror that of Israel in the wilderness but unlike Israel he is faithful. He is the obedient Son. In this final temptation we see that Jesus will not bypass the cross for the crown. As the heavenly king he knows that in order for him to redeem the world he must suffer and die. His will not just take control of the world but he will transform and redeem it. Heaven and earth will be united once again but not without a price. This story is not primarily about how to fight temptation, but is primarily about the only one completely victorious over temptation. So trust in Him.
In the latter part of this chapter we watch Jesus calling his disciples. These men will observe his ministry and participate in it. They too will endure difficultly on this earth but will be promised a future with him. After calling them, Jesus begins his ministry which is summarized by words and works. His preaching, teaching, and healing is absolutely astonishing. Matthew has clearly presented that he is the Savior promised but he will allow us to see through Jesus words (ch. 5-7) and works (8-9) that He has amazing authority.