Matthew 4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. I. The sons of God are NOT EXEMPTED FROM TEMPTATION. Many new converts cherish false expectations concerning the peace which, in the Word of God, is promised them. II. Temptation is NOT THE SAME THING AS SIN. TO be tempted may cause us much pain and sorrow, but it is not sin. III. Temptations are DIVINELY ORDERED, both as to time and measure (ver. 1; Job 1:12; Job 2:6). IV. After a season of special grace, we may expect a season of special trial. "Then" (ver. 1). It is not the vessel in ballast. but the vessel richly laden that is in danger from pirates. V. Satan ADAPTS HIS TEMPTATIONS to our character and circumstances. Hence our watchfulness must be intelligent and comprehensive. VI. THE HOLIEST THINGS MAY BE PERVERTED BY SATAN into instruments of temptation (vers. 3, 4, 6). VII. Though temptations are varied in form, they are FEW IN KIND. Jesus was tempted to three things. "Then the devil leaveth Him," because he had exhausted all his means of assault. VIII. VICTORY ITSELF MAY EXPOSE "US TO ASSAULT. We must not think we are rid of him when we have beaten him off. Watch. IX. In the Word of God we have A SUFFICIENT ARMOURY OF DEFENCE (vers. 4, 7, 10). X. In the stress and agony of the conflict, when we are tempted to yield by the fear that resistance is hopeless, let us remind ourselves that GOD HAS PROMISED GRACE TO SUPPORT US in the struggle, and a glorious reward when the victory is won. (Anon.) Parallel Verses KJV: Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.WEB: Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. |
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