Title: The Test Humanity Faces
Text: Luke 4:1–13
Through Jesus’ genealogy, we can better understand the concept of identity. In those days, people didn’t have last names. Instead, they identified themselves by referring to their ancestors: “I am the son or daughter of so-and-so.”
Why is identity so important? It’s because it helps us understand each other. Through Jesus, we discover our true identity. Jesus is the Son of God, who created us and the universe.
If we had to introduce ourselves spiritually, saying, “I am the son or daughter of someone,” who would that be? According to Jesus’ own words, we, as sinners, might be children of the devil.
However, by God’s grace through Jesus’ sacrifice, Christians have a new name. Our spiritual “last name” is no longer tied to sin or the devil—it has been changed to Jesus’ name. In many Western cultures, last names change after marriage. Likewise, Christians, as the spiritual bride of Christ, have their names changed, marking a new identity.
Today’s passage describes Jesus being tested by the devil. After humbly receiving baptism, Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness. The Spirit, who is the truth, brought Jesus to the wilderness to face the representative tests humanity endures.
with the Holy Spirit does not mean life will always feel pleasant. Sometimes, the Spirit leads us into the wilderness and trials. Physical comfort don’t always go hand in hand. Jesus endured such a wilderness experience to face the trials common to humanity.
Through Jesus, our trials are also His trials. He faced them on our behalf and showed us the correct answers. Jesus provides the example we need.
The First Test: The Problem of Survival
The first test concerns basic survival: How will we sustain ourselves? Most people rely on hard work—studying, finding a job, or starting a business—to solve this problem. But Satan subtly introduces a lie.
“If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”
This wasn’t just a survival test—it was a challenge to Jesus’ identity. The phrase “If you are the Son of God” was a trap. Jesus is indeed the Son of God, and He could have turned the stone into bread. However, instead of taking the easy way out, Jesus responded, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word of God.”
Often, we try to solve problems using whatever methods are available—even if they’re unethical or selfish. To feed ourselves, humans have stolen and fought wars. The root of these conflicts is our sin.
Today’s economic issues are less about production and more about distribution. Greed leads us to want more and more, even when we’re not physically hungry. This reflects spiritual hunger.
Only God’s Word can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Jesus points us to the real solution.
The Second Test: Power and Glory
The second test involves ownership, power, and glory. Satan falsely claimed ownership of all kingdoms and offered them to Jesus, saying, “If you worship me, it will all be yours.”
To bow down means to worship and serve. Many people serve money instead of using it. They compromise flatter the wealthy, and do immoral things for personal gain. This is worshiping wealth.
Christians, however, belong to God. Through Jesus, our ownership has been transferred from the devil to God. We are no longer slaves to sin but children of freedom. We can stand confidently, refusing to serve earthly powers, as Scripture says, “Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.”
The Third Test: Testing God
The final test takes place on the pinnacle of the temple. Satan again says, “If you are the Son of God,” and uses Scripture to tempt Jesus to jump, suggesting that angels would catch Him.
Jesus responded with Deuteronomy 6:16: “Do not test the Lord your God.” Even those who know Scripture and have strong faith can fall into the trap of testing God, expecting Him to act in a certain way.
Testing God comes from a desire to control Him. It’s like a child throwing a tantrum to manipulate a parent who love him. True love, however, is unconditional, not transactional.
When we test God, who suffers? Only we do. “If you jump, you’ll die” is the simple reality.
Conclusion
To determine whether something is an idol, ask yourself, “Am I trying to make a deal?” Even if you think you’re dealing with God, this transactional mindset reveals idolatry. Satan may offer small rewards at first but always aims to destroy what truly matters—our souls.
We are often tempted by miracles, emotional highs, and worldly rewards. But instead of chasing these, let’s stand firm on God’s truth. Jesus calls us to love our neighbors, even our enemies, just as He loves all of humanity.
Don’t let small tests distract you. Stand with Jesus, who overcame every test, and live in victory as part of God’s family. May we all overcome life’s trials with Jesus as our guide.
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