When the Tempter Came

Matthew tells us that Jesus fasted forty days and forty nights (Matt.4:1-2). I don’t know how a human being could accomplish such a feat of self-discipline, but Jesus did it. Perhaps his time alone in the wilderness was needed just before his teaching ministry began, thus he needed time to concentrate and pray. And into the midst of his solitude came the devil himself.

I couldn’t begin to imagine how hungry a man would be after fasting that long. A piece of bread must have seemed as valuable as gold. The devil challenged him to miraculously turn some wilderness rocks into bread, something Jesus could easily do. He wanted Jesus to prove Himself, that he was really the Son of God. Jesus refused. Continue reading

Comforts of the Rich

Louvre, tower 1Jesus was pretty hard on the rich. He sent the wealthy young ruler away feeling low (Mt.19:22). You’ll remember what He said about camels and the eye of a needle (v24). And in Luke 6:24 he warned, “Woe to you who are rich, for you are receiving your comfort in full.”

Since the New Testament later reveals that there were wealthy Christians we understand that it is not a sin to be rich. But the pursuit of wealth brings many troubles. In Jesus’ day the rich were generally ruthless, uncaring people; this is what Jesus spoke against. Continue reading