The Temptations of Jesus
Matthew 4:1-11

Temptation

Real needs used as a basis for temptation

Possible doubts that made the temptations real

Potential weaknesses Satan sought to exploit

Jesus’ answer

Make bread

Physical need: Hunger

Would God provide food?

Hunger, impatience, need to "prove his sonship"

Deuteronomy 8:3 "Depend on God" Focus: God’s purpose

Dare God to rescued you (based on misapplied Scripture, Psalm 91:11, 12)

Emotional need: Security

Would God protect?

Pride, insecurity need to test God

Deuteronomy 6:16 "Don’t test God" Focus: God’s plan

Worship me! (Satan)

Psychological need: significance, power, achievement

Would God rule?

Desire for quick power, easy solutions, need to prove equality with God

Deuteronomy 6:13 "No compromise with evil" Focus: God’s person

As if going through a final test of preparation, Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness, Three specific parts of the Temptation are listed by Matthew, They familiar because we face the same kinds of temptations, As the chart shows, temptations is often the combinations of a real need and a possible doubt that created an inappropriate desire, Jesus demonstrates both the importance and effectiveness of knowing and applying Scripture to combat temptation.