Three temptations
The Three Temptations of Jesus are recorded in Matthew 4:1-11 and are well known. However they warrant a closer look because of the subtlety of the temptations and the details hidden in the narrative. The Setting: In Matthew 3:13-17 the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist and the events that followed are described. As Jesus arose from the water the heavens were opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. Following this a voice spoke from heaven declaring " This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased " . ( Matthew 3:13-17 , Mark 1:11-13 ). What is surprising is that after this wonderful moment the Holy Spirit immediately sends Jesus out into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil ( Matthew 4:1 ). In obedience Jesus fasts for 40 days and nights and at the end of the fast, as Matthew records in superb understatement, " He was hungry ". It is at this time that Satan appears to take advantage of Jesus' weakened st...