The temptation.
This appears to have extended through the forty days of the sojourn of Jesus in the wilderness. Mark says, "He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan" (Mark 1:13). The text describes only the acme at the close of the forty days. It is given as a specimen of the wiles of Satan, and forms an epitome of all the temptations he has ever contrived. From it we learn—
I. THAT SATAN IS ARMED WITH FORMIDABLE POWERS.
1. Probably he appeared in an assumed shape.
2. Probably he literally transported the body of Jesus.
3. He wrought wonderfully upon the imagination of Jesus.
II. THAT SATAN WIELDS HIS ENERGIES WITH SUBTLETY.
1. He selects a wilderness as the theatre of his operations.
2. He practises adroitly upon our necessities.
3. He turns our weapons against us.
4. He "bids up" for the soul of the good.
III. THAT GOD SUPERINTENDS THE CONFLICTS OF HIS SAINTS.
1. He strengthens them for the battle.
2. He permits temptations for gracious ends.
3. He retains Satan under his control.
4. He gives final victory to the faithful.