The Temptations in the Wilderness

Bread

Jesus chose to go into the wilderness.

His 40 days there mirror the 40 years the Israelites spent wandering in the desert.

Only they hadn't known what they were choosing, and spent the time grumbling. And complaining. And moaning.

"This water is bitter" "We want bread"
"We used to sit around pots of meat in Egypt"

Jesus chose not to turn the stones into bread.
Bread has the power to satisfy our bodily needs, but our need for the word of God is greater.

We can shop online for instant gratification.

But what word of the Lord do we lack?

Testing

"Do not put the Lord your God to the test, as you tested him at Massah" (when the Israelites complained over lack of water).

What is the difference between putting God to the test, and choosing to rely on God?

Power

Worship Me!

We can all think of politicians and celebrities who have made this Faustian bargain.

When was the last time you traded truth for popularity?

Mark yourself with ash as a sign of repentance.