Verse 1-2: In preparation for his ministry, why would Jesus head into the wilderness and subject himself to be tempted by the devil?
Verse 3-4: What are the temptations of the flesh? What is the difference between normal bodily functions/urges and bring a slave to the flesh?
What was the devil’s goal with the first temptation? What did Jesus prove in his response?
“For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin. For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.”
Romans 7:14-20 ESV
Verse 5-7: Why would Satan quote scripture to tempt Jesus? How can scripture be used for evil? Isn’t all scripture breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness? Do you think people can misuse scripture?
What is the devil tempting Jesus with in the second temptation? How does Jesus respond?
Verse 8-11: How could the devil promise to give Jesus all the kingdoms of the world? Do you think all kingdoms are under the authority of Satan?
Why would the devil offer Jesus kingdoms? How does Hesus respond?
Verse 12-17: Is there some responsibility or authority you inherited from someone else? What were some things you did the same when you took that on? Why did you do that?
When John is arrested, Jesus began by preaching the same message John the Baptist preached. Why do you think he did that?
Verse 18-22: If you read Matthew 4:18-22, you get the impression that Jesus showed up, called the disciples, and immediately they decided following Jesus was the right thing to do. Do you think people come to faith that way? That God just chooses you and you immediately follow him? Contrast this account with Luke 5:1-11.
Do you have a blind faith or a reasonable faith? Is there any evidence for why we should trust in God at all? Do you think God wants us to have blind faith? Do you need to ignore reason in order to be a Christian?
Verse 23-25: Why do you think Jesus healed people as part of his ministry? What is the message in the healing?
Is there any area of your life where you desire healing?