Who was the Tempter, in the Wilderness, with Jesus?
Leeanna Porter
READ: Matthew 4:1-11
EXPLORE:
Why was Jesus led into temptation? Was God or the devil the tempter? James teaches us that God tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Our Father does not put the evil desires and the pride of life within us. However, He orders our steps and allows the devil to test us for the purpose of proving the genuineness of our faith.
So, who is this devil that God allows to test our faith? First called Lucifer, Star of the Morning, he was the anointed covering cherub. He was blameless until unrighteousness was found in him and he sinned. He was full of pride because of his beauty and his wealth, corrupting his wisdom. At some point, Lucifer fell from heaven and when we find him on earth, he is called “the serpent.” As punishment for tempting Eve, he was made to crawl on his belly and eat dust, in contrast with the exalted position he once flaunted.  He is called the prince of demons, the father and author of lies. He is our adversary (Satan) who provokes us to fret over our circumstances, doubting the goodness of God. He is a blasphemer of God’s name. He is the daily accuser of the brethren, laying to our charge laws we are guilty of breaking and demanding our punishment. However, God is our just Judge and
takes up our defense. The devil “diabolos” is the slanderer, backbiter, defamer, false accuser, unjust criticizer who seeks to hurt, defame, and malign, severing and destroying relationships. Without a doubt, he does nothing without God's permission. He is not all-powerful, nor does he have his own authority. Thankfully, the serpent’s future has been sealed and is written in the final
pages of the Bible. The dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, will deceive one last time. Being terrified, his head will be crushed by Jesus, and he will be no more. At this time, the tempter will be thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where he will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” Amen and hallelujah to The Lamb.
BIG IDEA: Jesus won the victory over sin and the devil, for us
APPLY:
—Are you most tempted with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, or the pride of life?
—Do you tend to pray over the testings and trials that hit you or do you tend more towards grumbling and complaining?
Prayerfully read Matt 6:9-13; 1 John 2:16-17.
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