Satan Tempts Jesus | The 3 Temptations of Jesus -

Was Jesus Ever Tempted? The Book of Matthew Says “Yes“

First, a simple question: Was Jesus ever tempted? The answer is yes. According to the Bible, Satan is real and actively seeks to tempt and discourage those who follow Christ. But Jesus shows us exactly how to respond when temptation comes.

In this Matthew 4:1-11 Bible lesson, we see Satan tempting Jesus in the wilderness, and we learn powerful lessons on how to stand firm in faith.

Satan Tempts Jesus – Matthew 4:1-11

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. For forty days and forty nights He fasted and became hungry. The tempter came to Him and said, ‘If You are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.’

Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone.’

Then the devil took Him to the holy city and had Him stand on the highest point of the temple. ‘If You are the Son of God,’ he said, ‘throw Yourself down. For it is written: He will command His angels concerning You, and they will lift You up in their hands, so that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’

Jesus answered, ‘It is also written: You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’

Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. ‘All this I will give You,’ he said, ‘if You will bow down and worship me.’

Jesus replied, ‘Away from me, Satan! For it is written: Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’

Then the devil left Him, and angels came and attended Him.” – Matthew 4:1-11

The 3 Temptations of Jesus

Jesus faced three specific temptations from Satan in the wilderness:

Tempting with physical needs: Turning stones into bread.
Temptation of pride: Throwing Himself from the temple pinnacle to show His divine power.
Temptations of worldly power: Worshiping Satan for all the kingdoms of the world.

Each of these temptations teaches us something important about relying on God rather than our own strength, pride, or desire for control.

Jesus in the Bible: A Model for Spiritual Warfare

Some people doubt the existence of Satan, but just as God is real, so is the devil. He is a fallen angel who opposes God and everything that is good. Yet, Jesus demonstrates how to resist temptation through Scripture and faith.

How Jesus Fought Satan

The devil assumed he could tempt Christ with food, pride, and power. Could Jesus have turned stones into bread? Absolutely. Could He have called down angels to save Himself? Yes. But His mission required faith, obedience, and reliance on God. Jesus responded to each temptation by quoting Scripture, showing us the power of God’s Word in spiritual battles.

The Christian Battle Against Temptation

Satan hates seeing anyone follow God faithfully. During high points in our spiritual journey, temptation often comes strongest. But Jesus’ example reminds us to be on guard and stay rooted in Scripture and prayer.

How Do We Fight Satan?

When temptation strikes, the key is simple: trust God and use His Word as your defense. Scripture is both our offense and defense against Satan. He cannot win against the truth of God’s Word.

And remember, as followers of Christ, the outcome of this spiritual battle is already decided—God wins!

Learn More About Jesus in the Bible

For more lessons on Christ and His love, check out these helpful posts:

By studying the 3 temptations of Jesus in Matthew 4:1-11 and learning from His example, we can navigate our own spiritual battles with courage, wisdom, and faith. BTW: Dr Jeremiah discusses more about this in his video here.

Love in Christ,
– Bob

If you have never made the commitment to receive the life-changing love of Jesus Christ, take a moment to read John 3:16 for more information.