CAF Scripture FORUM
Flower lady
We do well to keep in mind that while Jesus was at all times assumed a Perfect human nature he also always retained his Dive Nature as God. This knowledge then is intended to direct us to a common thread in Jesus teaching’s. What he does, he does with perfect Divine Knowledge, meaning in his Divine nature he knows all things.
One might point out that after being found in the Temple after 3 days he grew in “knowledge and wisdom.” Lk. 2: 51-52
TRUE, but not exactly as stated. As God, Jesus knew all. But as Jesus the man he desired to EXPERIENCE what we experience daily except for sin. Many if not all of the Teachings of Jesus are layered to permit differing levels of understanding, granted and guided by the HS. When confronted with a mysterious set of circumstances, always dig deeper When the obvious is NOT obvious; there is a hidden teaching.
The 40 day’s in the desert has at least 2 meanings: It mirror-reflection of the 40 years in the Exodus with Moses; and the frequent failings of the Jews, and God calling them back to him. “The desert” is a place of loneliness, offering an opportunity to GROW closer to God through quiet reflection and much prayer. Jesus had no need for this; we do.
Satan heard the songs of the angels at the birth of Jesus, and also the voice of the Father proclaiming him as the “Son of God.” BUT he doubted and wanted further proof.
The three test mean nothing to God; & might bring understanding to Satan, BUT are actually as explained by Haydock’s Catholic Commentary a series of Moral lessons for us; if we can see past the verbiage they are concealed in.
The Bread: God has no need for food Jn. 4: 23-24 tell us God is “Spirit & Truth”. Jesus the man, certainly should be hungry after a 40 day fast, so Satan’s ungodly thoughts assumed a weakness. Jesus rather than ending this challenge here by rebuking Satan; instead chooses to model perfect humility for us. A trait found necessary for OUR salvation. Not by BREAD Alone Mt. 4:4
Test 2: Jump off this building! IF you’re God you won’t be hurt. This models the PRIDE of Satan’s fall from grace; this is the PRIDE of Adam & Eve who too desired to be like God; and Jesus replies you Cf. ought not to TEST God! AND that my friends is an essential lesson for our own possible salvation.
The 3td Test is sort of a biblical curve ball. If we get hung up on how this was accomplished; we miss the Lesson. The sin here is “MEISM”; the sin of our 1st. parents and that which we inherit from them: CONCUPISCENCE … the propensity to sin! I want! I will! It’s my Body! And so on; all of which deny God’s RIGHT to be in charge of our lives.
So when confronted with a Bible teaching not easily understood; pray & look for a deeper meaning. God never promised it would be easy; only POSSIBLE with His Help.
God Bless you,