Satan takes Jesus to the holy city of Jerusalem
to the top of the temple [ Mt. 4:5-6]. The Tempter changes emphasis by appealing
to Jesus’ national heritage, and the Son of God’s operational efforts. And
remember, the temple is where God is supposed to live according to the Jewish
national belief.
“If you are the Son of God…jump!
Scripture says he will put his angels in charge of you. They will carry you in
their hands so that you never hit your foot against a rock. “[NEV,
Mt.4:6]
First, Satan subtly choses the top of temple to
suggest the Son is higher than the heavenly Father. A lie but then, he states a
truth from scripture [Ps. 91:11-12] “the angels will protect”, another disguise
to confuse, misdirect but appear truth bound.
Jesus responds with true fact. “It is written,
you shall not tempt the Lord your God.” [ Mt. 4:7, based on Deut. 6:16]
So, what is the real truth in Mt. 4 [ No
tempting by God like in James 1: 13], and John 13:34 Jesus says he gives a new
idea].
Satan always misdirects the truth, even when
shrouded with what appears to be right. His essence is not love but death to
life. Evil remains a liar constantly. It cannot help itself. It wants to die
and promote that is all there is.
Jesus keeps affirming that He is truth and truth
still has a built-in reality in this world made by the heavenly father.
We struggle but not without help and hope. [ Use
Eph. 6: 10-19].
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