Notes from a Rotation.org Discussion we had a few years back about teaching the story of Jesus' Temptation in the Wilderness
What's the story about?
- Is it about how to resist temptation?
- Or is it about Jesus choosing to be a servant Messiah, rather than all-powerful King?
It's pretty typical for Sunday Schools to turn this story into a "be like Jesus" lesson on morality and making right choices. And that's not wrong. "WWJD" is never a bad question to ask and answer.
But like so many stories in the Gospels, this one primarily shows us WHO Jesus was. Here at the beginning of his ministry, he reveals himself to be the Son of God (actually, the devil announces it!), and shows us how he will exercise the power of God within him.
Coming around full-circle: Jesus' answer puts our tempations and sins in perspective. His sinlessness and ability to resist temptation will lead to laying down his life for our salvation. Ultimately, we will not be judged by our failing in the face of tempation, but by his victory over temptation.
Obedience or Expedience?
Jesus could have chosen the easy path to his kingship, and won over the world with his powers. But he chose obedience even unto death.
We often say it was the CROSS that turned the world upside down, but let me suggest that Jesus flipped it over earlier than that! ...in this Wilderness Story.
<>< Neil
