Matthew 4:3-11

Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

The subject of CHRIST'S temptations, is a subject attended with much difficulty thoroughly to explain. One of the great causes for which the SON of God was manifested, was, that he might destroy the works of the Devil. 1 John 3:8. And if we take the whole purport of scripture on this point, one mass of particulars, we shall be led to conclude, that the quarrel between CHRIST and the devil was personal Jude 1:6; Revelation 12:7. Now when CHRIST came upon earth, the conflict was with this accursed enemy. Hence CHRIST combated personally with Satan; when he began his temptations, and afterwards at the cross. Hebrews 2:14. He doth this also, when in his people he enables his redeemed to resist him, and at length brings Satan under their feet. James 4:7; Romans 16:20. And there is another triumph, scripture seems to intimate, which the Son of God will have over Satan, before the day of judgment; namely, when Satan is to be shut up, and restrained from his cursed temptations over the LORD'S people. Revelation 20:1. And, lastly, at the great day of all, then the devil will be brought forth for final judgment, and eternal punishment, before the whole world. Revelation 20:10, etc.

I do not think, it necessary to go minutely over the several temptations with which the devil assaulted Christ. The whole was necessary, no doubt, that CHRIST should fulfil all righteousness. But it was necessary also, on the account of his redeemed. For in that he himself hath suffered, being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Hebrews 2:18. Few have taken into their soul's comfort the whole blessedness of this account of JESUS. It is not meant simply to say that as GOD and as man, in one person, he knoweth what temptations are; but it is meant to say, that from his personal knowledge of them, and his own exercises in those seasons, he knoweth both what his people feel under temptations, and how to administer the very succour which will exactly suit their case and circumstances. And nothing can give equal relief as this assurance to every tempted Child of GOD?

Moreover, it should be added, that in those temptations, wherewith JESUS was assaulted, the believer ought to draw comfort, if at any time his exercises are the same. In those temptations in the wilderness CHRIST was assaulted with the sin of distrust; unbelief; to worship the devil; and to self-murder. And if the tempter thus dared to attack the LORD of life and glory, is it a wonder that he should his members? Oh! for grace upon all occasions, when assaulted with the fiery darts of Satan, to look unto JESUS and to take the shield of faith, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of GOD. JESUS will make all his redeemed more than conquerors, through his grace enabling them. And in due season, that song will be heard by every soul which John heard; Now is come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of' our GOD, and the power of his CHRIST : for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our GOD day and night. Revelation 12:10. And as in the instance of the glorious Head, so all his members, when temptations cease, the ministering services of angels are enjoyed. Hebrews 1:14