Luke: Part 14 – The Second Great Temptation
The ministry of Jesus Christ begins with what can only be described as a mission in the spiritual realm. Before Christ preaches or performs any signs, he does battle first with Satan. He faces severe temptation in the desert. For the Believer, this should immediately bring to mind another temptation scenario in Scripture, namely, the temptation of Adam and Eve. Note that Adam and Eve were tempted in the bountiful setting of the Garden of Eden. Do you see the parallels? Jesus is in the desert. The first couple are in a luscious garden. Jesus is alone. They have each other. Jesus is hungry and thirsty. Their bellies are full. Adam and Eve were positioned to succeed in every way against the onslaught of Satan and his smooth yet deceiving suggestions. Jesus faced the same Satan who tried the same smooth yet deceptive suggestions. The difference between our first parents and Christ is that Jesus believed the Word of God and obeyed it and they did not. And so we learn from our Lord Jesus how to be victorious.