Having just been anointed with the Spirit at his baptism, in Luke 4 Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where he is tempted by the devil. Jesus overcame temptation at every point, using the word of God and resting on an unshakable conviction that following his Father down the path of service and suffering would be better than taking the devil’s shortcut to fame and power.
Because Jesus stood firm in the face of temptation, his life is now our life. His perfect life qualifies him to stand in for us on the day of judgment. His righteousness ensures us a place in the kingdom of the Father.    

Questions for reflection:

1 . In Jesus’ replies to the devil, he references to Israel’s wilderness wanderings in Deuteronomy. Why did he do this?

2 . What were the 3 lies behind each other the devil’s suggestions?

3 . Why was is so important that Jesus led a perfect life? (Philippians 3:8, 9)

4 . What resources do we have to withstand the lies of the devil?