Sermon Notes For 2024
Sermon Notes For 3-27-24 Part 1.
From The Gospel of Matthew 3: 13-17, Is (Part One) of The Authentication Process That The Messiah King. The Lord Jesus Had To Experience Before His Earthly Ministry Could Begin.
Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew 3:
Now, today with God’s help, we are going to begin here in Matthew 3: 13-17, which is the second half of Matthew Chapter 3.
For this portion of The Gospel of Matthew 3:13-17 is the beginning of the 2-part authentication process that The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus must experience before His earthly ministry can begin.
(Note) the English word “Authentication,” can mean, the process or action of proving or showing something or someone is authentic, genuine, real, or valid.
Now, turn to The Gospel of Matthew 4:
Now, here in Matthew 4: 1-11, this would be the second part of the authentication process that The Messiah King. The Lord Jesus had to experience before His earthly ministry could begin.
Now, back to The Gospel of Matthew.
So, let’s begin here in Matthew 3: 13-17, which again is the first part of the authentication process that The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus must experience before His earthly ministry can begin.
Show you what I mean, notice Matthew 3:13. Then Jesus came from Galilee which is a district or a county area in Northern Israel. And by the way, one of the villages in this district or county area would have been Nazareth.
Now also, see The Gospel of Mark 1: 9. “It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan.”
Now, let’s go back 18 years before the baptism of Jesus to understand how his life was so different then.
Now, see The Gospel of Matthew 13:
54 And when Jesus had come to His own country or hometown, He taught them in their synagogue so that they were astonished and said, Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works?
55 Is this not the carpenter's son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, Joses, Simon, and Judas?
56 And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this Man get all these things? (Stop There)
Now, back to Matthew 3.
Now, notice again Matthew 3: 13 Then Jesus came from Galilee unto John the Baptizer at the Jordan or the Jordan River.
(Note) The Jordan River or the River or Jordan is approximately 156 miles long. Now, the Jordan River begins at the southern part of the Sea of Galilee, which is also known as The Sea of Tiberius in The Gospel of John 21: 1. Now, The Sea of Galilee is actually a freshwater lake in Northern Israel.
Now again, the Jordan River begins at the southern part of the Sea of Galilee and it travels southward some 156 miles and then it empties into the Dead Sea which is in the Southern part of Israel, not too far from Jerusalem.
Now, notice again Matthew 3:13. Then Jesus came from Galilee unto John the Baptizer at
the Jordan or the Jordan River, at the Judea Part, perhaps around the Northern Part of the Dead Sea and the Qumran Valley Wilderness area.
(Note) have you ever heard of The Dead Sea Scrolls? The Dead Sea Scrolls are a set of ancient Jewish manuscripts from the Second Temple period. They were discovered over a period of 10 years, between 1946 and 1956, at the Qumran Caves, near Ein Feshkha in the West Bank, on the northern shore of the Dead Sea. The manuscripts dating from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE. The Dead Sea Scrolls are considered to be a keystone in the history of archaeology with great historical, religious, and linguistic significance because they include the oldest surviving manuscripts of entire books later included in the biblical canons, along with extra-biblical and deuterocanonical manuscripts that preserve evidence of the diversity of religious thought in late Second Temple Judaism.
Now, notice again Matthew 3:13. Then Jesus came from Galilee unto John Baptizer at the Jordan or the Jordan River, at the Judea Part, perhaps around the Northern Part of the Dead Sea and the Qumran Valley Wilderness Area.
See again Matthew 3:1, In those days came John the Baptizer came preaching in the wilderness of Judæa, perhaps around the Northern Part of the Dead Sea and the Qumran Valley wilderness area. (Note) this will be the same area coming up later, were our Lord Jesus Christ will be tested in the wilderness 40 days and 40 nights
Now, see Matthew 4:
1. Then was Jesus led up of The Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
2. And when Jesus had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward very hungry, the early stages of starvation.Now, back to Matthew 3.
Now, notice again Matthew 3:13. Then Jesus came from Galilee (the Village of Nazareth) unto John Baptizer at the Jordan river, (the Judean area) to be baptized by John. (Stop here)
Now, in all 4 Gospels of The New Testament, they recognize this unique and unusual event.
And I’m sure you have seen it and have read it in the past, but I wonder how many of you have really taken a good look and have studied the significance of what’s being revealed unto us here in the Scriptures.
Because for some this is one of the most controversial and misunderstood parts regarding the life of Jesus Christ. Now, explain some important things about this matter.
Believe it or not, but after the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, there was a group of individuals
in the early days of the Church during The New Testament times who were called, the Gnostics. Now, one of the many false things that they taught and believed was that Jesus was just a man and not God! But they said what made Jesus so special was because of His baptism. And it was at that point he got incarnated with what they called the divine spirit!
Because up until His baptism Jesus was just an average normal human being who was sinful like other people were. But at His baptism, He was incarnated by the divine spirit a.k.a. the Logos, “The Christ-spirit!”
Then the Gnostics taught this is why Jesus needed to be baptized to receive His purification in order to receive, “The Christ-spirit!” Therefore, for Jesus His baptism was a cleansing. For Jesus His Baptism was a preparatory act, so, that He could be incarnated with “The Christ-spirit”! However, before his crucifixion the so-called, “Christ-spirit,” departed from him. And when he died, He died just as a man, but his disciple stole away his body from the tomb and claimed that he was resurrected from the dead!
Now, another area of contention for some is the fact that Jesus was baptized by John, whose baptism we know was for Sinners at that time, but no longer true Since Christ death upon the cross. But for those living during the time of John the baptizer, who wanted to change and get right with God. They came to John at the Jordan River, ready to repent. Honestly Confessing their sins. And then, openly be baptized to express their desire for spiritual change and transformation to be ongoing by the power of God.
Now, let’s see again Matthew 3:
1 In those days, John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea,
2 And saying, Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand!
5 Then Jerusalem all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out unto John.
6 And were baptized by John in the Jordan confessing their sins. (Stop there)
And therefore, for some, the fact that Jesus was baptized by John, whose baptism was to be for sinners only at that time, but no longer true now.
But still, the question is, why is Jesus doing this?
For Jesus was sinless and had no need of repentance or confess any sin. See Hebrews 4: 15
For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; But was in all points was tempted like as we are, yet without sin or sinning.
Now, God's help, let’s see if we can understand the origin of Baptism. Listen, Although “Baptism” was used by John the Baptist, “Baptism” itself did not originate with John.
The Jewish people of The Old Testament. practiced Baptism as a traditional act of purification and the initiation of converts into Judaism long before the coming of John.
The origins of baptism can be found during the times Moses, for example in the book of Leviticus where the Levite priests were commanded to perform a symbolic cleansing in water before and after performing their priestly duties. (Leviticus 16: 4) tells us that the priest is to put on the sacred linen tunic, with linen undergarments next to his body; he is to tie the linen sash around him and put on the linen turban. These are sacred garments; so he must bathe himself with water before he puts them on.”
Also, in Leviticus 16: 23-24, Aaron the High Priest was to go into the Tent of Meeting and take off the linen garments he put on before he entered the Most Holy Place, and he is to leave them there. He shall bathe himself with water in a holy place and put on his regular garments. Then he shall come out and sacrifice the burnt offering for himself and the burnt offering for the people, to make atonement for himself and for the people.
(Note) Although the act described in Leviticus 16: 4, Leviticus 16: 23-24 does not use the word “Baptism.” But Leviticus 16: 4, Leviticus 16: 23-24 still highlights how important ceremonial practical cleansing was unto God.
So then, why was Jesus baptized? For Even John the baptizer was taken aback at Jesus’ coming to him. John recognized his own sin and was aware that he a sinful man in need of repentance himself, and was totally unfit to baptize the spotless Lamb of God: For John Said, I need to be baptized by you, and you are coming to me? (Matthew 3:14).
Now, there a few unique reasons why it was fitting for John to baptize Jesus at the start of Jesus’ public ministry.
First, Jesus was about to embark on His great work and mission, so it was appropriate that Jesus be recognized publicly by His forerunner John. For John was the voice crying in the wilderness prophesied by Isaiah, calling people to repentance in preparation for their Messiah (Isaiah 40:3).
By baptizing Jesus, John was declaring to all that here was the One they had been waiting for, the Son of God, the One he had predicted would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire, (Matthew 3:11). (Note) Jesus’ baptism by John takes on an added dimension when we consider that John was of the tribe of Levi and a direct descendant of Aaron.
In Luke’s Gospel He specifies that both of John’s parents were of the Aaronic priestly line (Luke 1:5). One of the duties of the priests in the Old Testament was to present the sacrifices before the Lord.
Therefore, John the Baptist’s baptism of Jesus could be seen as a priestly presentation of the Ultimate Sacrifice. In fact, John’s words the day before the baptism of Jesus has a priestly sound to it: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”! (John 1:29).
Now, the second reason Jesus’ baptism also showed that He identified with sinners. His baptism symbolized the sinners baptism into the righteousness of Christ, dying with Him and rising free from sin and able to walk in the newness of life. His perfect righteousness would fulfill all the requirements of the Law for sinners who could never hope to do so on their own.
When John hesitated to baptize the sinless Son of God, Jesus replied that it was proper to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). By this He alluded to the righteousness that He provides to all who come to Him to exchange their sin for His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Now, the third reason why Jesus’ came to John was to show His approval of John's baptism,
by bearing witness to it that it was from heaven and approved by God. This would be important in the future when others would begin to doubt John’s authority, particularly after his arrest by Herod (Matthew 14: 3-11).
Now, the fourth and final reason maybe the most important reason for this unique occasion that was recorded for all future generations, for we have the perfect embodiment of the triune God revealed on Earth.
The testimony directly from heaven of the Father’s pleasure with the Son and the descending of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus (Matthew 3:16-17) is a beautiful picture of the trinitarian nature of God. It also depicts the work of the Father, Son, and Spirit in the salvation of those Jesus came to save. The Father loves the elect from before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4);
Then He sends His Son to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10); and then the Spirit convicts of sin (John 16:8) and draws the believer to the Father through the Son.
All the glorious truth of the mercy of God through Jesus Christ is on display at His baptism.
Sermon Notes For 4-3-24 Part 2. From The Gospel Of Matthew 3: 13-17, The Authentication Process That The Messiah King. The Lord Jesus Had To Experience Before His Earthly Ministry Could Begin.
Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew 3:
Now today, let’s finish up this portion The Gospel of Matthew 3: 13-17.
Now, remember this portion of The Gospel of Matthew 3: 13-17 Is The Beginning of The (2 Part) Authentication Process That The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus Must Experience Before His Earthly Ministry Can Begin.
(Note) the English word “Authentication,” can mean, the process or action of proving or showing something or someone is authentic, genuine, real, or valid.
Now. Notice Matthew 3:13. Then Jesus came from Galilee unto John Baptizer at the Jordan river, to be baptized by John.
Now, let’s see The Gospel of John 1:
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and John said, Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
30 This is He of whom I said after me comes One who is preferred before me, for He was before me.
(Now, back to Matthew 3)
Now, notice Matthew 3:14. But John tried to prevent or persuade Jesus by saying unto Him,
I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming unto me? (Stop here)
(Question), What is the importance of you and i as a committed follower of Jesus Christ
to have personally experienced water baptism as unto The Lord, since we have believed and received His Gift of Salvation?
Well, see Colossians 2:
12 buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.
13 And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses.
Now also, see Romans 6:
3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?
4 Therefore, we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
And lastly, see Matthew 28:
19. Jesus said, Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20. teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age, Amen.
Now, Believer’s baptism is one of two ordinances that Jesus instituted for the body of Christ, and the other ordinance would be the Lord’s table, or holy communion. And therefore, for no other reason, baptism has importance because Jesus commanded it.
Now, the word “Baptism” is from the Greek word baptize, which means, •To immerse or sub-submerge in water. •Or to dip something into a liquid color dye, so that item can take on the same color characteristics. •Or to identify with another person or group, like an initiation.
Now, baptism was practiced before the founding of the church. The Jews of ancient times would baptize proselytes to signify the converts cleansed nature. John the Baptist used baptism to prepare the way of the Lord, requiring everyone, not just Gentiles, to be baptized because everyone needs repentance.
However, John’s baptism signifying repentance, is not the same as Christian baptism, as seen in Acts 18:24–26 and 19:1–7. Christian baptism has a deeper significance.
Baptism is to be done in the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit this is what makes it “Christian” baptism. It is through this ordinance that a person is admitted into the fellowship of the church.
When we are saved, we are “baptized” by the Spirit into the Body of Christ, which is the church. First Corinthians 12:13 says, We were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Baptism by water is a reenactment of the baptism by the Spirit.
Christian baptism is the means by which a person makes a public profession of faith and discipleship.
In the waters of baptism a person is saying, without saying a word, I confess faith in Christ Jesus has cleansed my soul from sin, and I now have a new life of sanctification.
Christian baptism illustrates, in dramatic style, the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.
At the same time, it also illustrates our death to sin and new life in Christ. As the sinner confesses the Lord Jesus, he dies to sin (Romans 6:11) and is raised to a brand new life (Colossians 2:12).
Being submerged in the water represents death to sin, and emerging from the water represents
the cleansed, Holy life that follows salvation. Romans 6:4 puts it this way: We were therefore, buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
Very simply, baptism is an outward testimony of the inward change in a believer’s life.
Christian baptism is an act of obedience to the Lord after salvation; although baptism is closely associated with salvation, it is not a requirement to be saved.
The Bible shows in many places that the order of events are,
1) a person believes in the Lord Jesus.
2) he is baptized.
This sequence is seen in Acts 2:41, “Those who accepted Peter’s message were baptized (see also Acts 16: 14–15).
A new believer in Jesus Christ should desire to be baptized as soon as possible. In Acts 8, Philip speaks the good news about Jesus to the Ethiopian eunuch, and, as they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, ‘Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized, verses 35&36. Right away, they stopped the chariot, and Philip baptized the man.
Baptism illustrates a believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Everywhere the gospel is preached and people are drawn to faith in Christ they are to be baptized.
Now, notice Matthew 3:
14. But John tried to prevent or persuade Jesus by saying unto Him, I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming unto me?
15. But Jesus answered and said unto John, Permit or allow this to happen now, for thus it is fitting or right for Us to fulfill all righteousness. Then John obeyed Jesus. (Stop there)
Now, notice again Matthew 3:15. But Jesus answered and said unto John,
*Permit or Allow this to happen now!
*Secondly, For or because it is fitting or right for Us. Notice, Jesus did not just say it is fitting or right for Me! But Jesus said it is fitting or right for Us, You and Me John together!
Now, notice again Matthew 3:15B. Permit or allow this to happen now, for or because it is fitting or right for Us To Fulfill All Righteousness. (Stop here)
So, what did Jesus mean when He said, “To fulfill all righteousness?” There were two possible reasons for Jesus to say it was time to fulfill all righteousness.
(First) the baptism confirmed Jesus as the Messiah.
And the second reason, it confirmed John as the forerunner to the Messiah. Both Jesus and John were acting in fulfillment of prophecy.
When Jesus said it was time to fulfill all righteousness, it seemed that He understood there needed to be a formal, public connection of Jesus to John and John to Jesus.
Scripture prophesied that the Messiah would have the Spirit of God resting on Him (Isaiah 11:2) and He would be God’s Son (Isaiah 9:6; Mark 1:1).
At Jesus’ baptism, both the Holy Spirit and the Father affirm that Jesus was the Messiah.
The timing is significant. It was important that they made that affirmation after John baptized Jesus.
Jesus recognized the significance of the moment even if John did not at first.
Jesus recognized that the baptism was fitting it was time to fulfill all righteousness (Matthew 3:15), and the way for Jesus and John to do that was by this particular baptism.
Malachi had also recorded important prophecies about the Messiah and the one who would precede His coming. In one of those prophecies, God announced that His messenger would clear the path for Him, and then He would come to His temple (Malachi 3:1).
When Jesus was baptized by John, it was a confirmation that John was that messenger, the forerunner to the Messiah.
John’s baptism of Jesus was an affirmation that John’s ministry was in accordance with God’s revealed plan.
If John’s ministry was authentic, then the people should not ignore the One whom John was proclaiming: Jesus the Messiah.
Jesus sought out John’s baptism because John was proclaiming the coming Messiah, and Jesus was that Messiah. By associating Himself with John and John’s message, Jesus affirmed both. He also showed the world that He, Jesus, was the prophesied Messiah.
When the Holy Spirit and the Father made themselves known at this event, it showed that Jesus was the Messiah, and it confirmed the truth of John’s message.
Jesus later explained that John was one of the witnesses to His Messiahship (John 5:33–35).When Jesus said it was time to fulfill all righteousness (Matthew 3:15), He understood it
was time for John’s ministry to be stamped as authentic and for the Messiahship of Jesus to be affirmed by John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit, and God the Father.
Now, notice Matthew 3:
16. When Jesus had been baptized, The Lord came up immediately from the water; And behold,
The Heavens were opened upon Jesus. And John saw The Spirit of God descending or landing like a dove and came upon Jesus.
17. And suddenly a voice came from Heaven saying, *This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased. (Stop here)
Now, here is a brief outline to consider as we wrap up this 3rd Chapter.
First, (In vs. 16A) The official commencement of God, The Son by means of baptism.
Secondly, (In vs. 16B) The anointing or empowerment of God, The Holy Spirit upon God The Son.
And Thirdly, (In vs. 17) The words of affirmation from God, The Father about God The Son.
Also, you will notice that all the members of The Trinity are mentioned at the same time
the baptism of The Son, the empowerment or anointing of The Spirit. And the words
of The Father. This is a very important passage for instruction on the doctrine of Trinity.
And here is also another important passage to consider.
See 1st John 5: 7. For there are three that bear witness in Heaven: The Father, The Word, and The Holy Spirit; and these Three are One.
(Now, back to Matthew 3)
Now, notice Matthew 3:16A. When Jesus had been baptized, The Lord came up immediately from the water, (Stop Here) The official commencement of God, The Son by means of baptism.
Now, notice Matthew 3: 16B. And behold, the Heavens were opened upon Jesus, and John saw The Spirit of God descending or landing like a dove and came upon Jesus. (Stop here)
Now, This is the anointing or empowerment of God, The Holy Spirit upon God The SonNow, see also, Acts 10:
37 that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached:
38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
Now, see The Gospel of Luke 4:
17 And Jesus was given the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when Jesus had opened the book,
He found the place where it was written:
18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty unto the captives and recovery of sight to the blind. To set at liberty those who are oppressed;
19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.
Now also, see The Book Of Isaiah 61:
1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn,
3 To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.
(Now, back to Matthew 3)
Now, notice Matthew 3:17. And suddenly a voice came from Heaven saying, *This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased. (Stop here)
Now, here are the words of affirmation from God, The Father about God The Son.
Now, let’s see The Gospel of Luke 3:
21 When all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also was baptized;
and while Jesus prayed, the heaven was opened.
22 And The Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven which said, You are My beloved Son in You I am well pleased.
23 Now, Jesus Himself began His ministry at about thirty years of age, being as was supposed the son of Joseph, the son of Heli.
And finally, see The Gospel of Mark 1:
9 It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.
10 And immediately, coming up from the water, Jesus saw the heavens parting and The Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. 11 Then a voice came from heaven, You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
12 Immediately, The Spirit drove Jesus into the wilderness.
13 For Jesus was there in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; But the angels ministered unto Him.
(Note) Now, our homework is to read and study Matthew 4: 1-11, for this Is Part Two
Of The Authentication Process That The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus Had To Experience Before His Earthly Ministry Could Begin.
Sermon Notes For 4-10-24 Part 3
From The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11, The Authentication Process That The Messiah King. The Lord Jesus Had To Experience Before His Earthly Ministry Could Begin.
Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew 4:
Now today, lets began with this portion The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11.
Now, Remember The Gospel of Matthew 3: 13-17 is the beginning of the 2-part authentication process that The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus must experience before His earthly ministry can begin.
(Note) the English word “Authentication” can mean, the process or action of proving or showing something or someone is authentic, genuine, real, or valid.
However, here in The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11, this is the second half of the 2-part authentication process that The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus must experience before His earthly ministry can begin.
Interestingly, all 3 of the synoptic Gospels reveals to us about this necessary test that our Lord Jesus had to go through and be victorious in. For example, notice The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11. Next, see The Gospel of Mark 1: 12&13. And lastly, see The Gospel of Luke 4: 1-13.
Now, back to Matthew 4.
Now, notice Matthew 4:1. Then Jesus was led up by The Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Stop here.)
Now, let’s notice again Matthew 4:1. Then Jesus was led up by The Spirit into the wilderness. (Stop here.)
Now, let’s do a quick review if you have not been with us for a while, so that this could make more sense.
Now, notice Matthew 3:
1 In those days John the Baptist or Baptizer came preaching in the wilderness of Judea,
(Note) perhaps around the northern part of the Dead Sea and the Qumran Valley wilderness area.
2 And saying, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!
5 Then from Jerusalem, and all of Judea and all the region around the Jordan they went out to John.
6 and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.
13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.
16 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him.
17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Now, notice again Matthew 4:1. Then Jesus was led up by The Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Stop here.)
Notice our English word “Tempted.” A Strong's Definition: πειράζω peirázō, pi-rad'-zo;
to try, make trial of, test: for the purpose of ascertaining his quality, or what he thinks, or how he will behave himself. In a good sense in a bad sense, to test one maliciously, craftily to put to the proof his feelings or judgments to try or test one's faith, virtue, character, by enticement to sin to solicit to sin, to tempt of the temptations of the devil after the OT usage of God: to inflict evils upon one in order to prove his character and the steadfastness of his faith men are said to tempt God by exhibitions of distrust, as though they wished to try whether he is not justly distrusted by impious or wicked conduct to test God's justice and patience, and to challenge him, as it were to give proof of his perfections.
Now, notice again Matthew 4:1. Then Jesus was led up by The Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Stop here.)
Notice our English word, “devil”. Another way to think about it is, “D-Evil”. A Strong's Definition: διάβολος diábolos, dee-ab'-ol-os. One who is prone to slander, A Slanderer,
Or one who is slanderous. A false accuser, A Calumniator, Calum-nia-tor
Now, let’s see Isaiah 14:12. How you are fallen from heaven O Lucifer, son of the morning!
How you are cut down to the ground, you who weakened the nations!
13 For you have said in your heart: *I will ascend into heaven, *I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; *I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north;
14 *I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, *I will be like the Most-Hig
Now, see Ezekiel 28:
12 Son of man, take up a lamentation for the king of Tyre. And say unto him, Thus says the Lord God, you were the seal of perfection. Full of wisdom and perfect in beauty.
13 You were in Eden, the garden of God. Every precious stone was your covering: The sardius, topaz, and diamond, Beryl, onyx, and jasper, Sapphire, turquoise, and emerald with gold. The workmanship of your timbrels and pipes was prepared for you on the day that you were created.
14 You were the anointed Cherub who covers; I established you; you were on the holy mountain of God; You walked back and forth in the midst of fiery stones.
15 You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, until iniquity was found in you.
Now, see Ephesians 6:
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Now, see 1st Peter 5:
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
And lastly, see Revelation 12:
7 And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought,
8 but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.
9 So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Now, back to Matthew 4.
Now, notice again Matthew 4:
1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
2 And when Jesus had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. (Stop here.)
Fasted or Fasting. Question: "Why did Jesus fast?"
Fasting is a practice found throughout Scripture. A fast in the Bible is usually a voluntary, total abstinence from food for a set time for the purpose of devoting oneself to seeking God. Fasting denies our flesh what it wants so that we can focus more clearly on strengthening our spirits.
It doesn’t seem that Jesus fasted often. In fact, His critics condemned Him for “eating and drinking” (Matthew 11:19). There is only one recorded instance in Scripture of Jesus fasting. This fast immediately followed His baptism (Matthew 3:13), which inaugurated Jesus’ public ministry. Matthew 4:1–2 says that Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to fast for forty days and nights. During that time of fasting, Jesus was repeatedly tempted by the devil. This testing time prepared Him for the three-year ministry that would change the world.
During those forty days, when Jesus’ flesh was at its weakest, He endured relentless temptation from Satan. Satan offered Him alternatives to God’s plan, compromises that would satisfy His natural desires, and attacks upon His very identity as the Son of God (Matthew 4:3). Jesus used the Word of God, not His own strength, to defeat those temptations and remain victorious over sin. He demonstrated for us that fasting can strengthen us spiritually when we use it to draw closer to God.
After Jesus’ fast, the devil left Him and “angels came and attended him (Matthew 4:11).
Luke 4:14 concludes the account of this testing time by saying Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit.
He had conquered temptation and was ready to embrace the purpose for which the Father had sent Him. He would not rely on His humanity to perform miracles, deliver the oppressed, or defeat death. Fasting was a way to declare mastery over His human nature so that He would live every moment directed by the “power of the Spirit” (Luke 10:21). He set the example for us who “are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit” (Romans 8:9). If the Son of God did not rely on His flesh to live in obedience to God, then we can’t either.
Now, what about Forty days and Forty nights? 1 Month if there is 31days and 9 days.
1 Month if there is 30 days and 10 days.
The number 40 shows up often in the Bible. Because 40 appears so often in contexts dealing with judgment or testing, many bible scholars understand it to be the number of “probation” or “trial.”
This doesn’t mean that 40 is entirely symbolic; it still has a literal meaning in Scripture. “Forty days” means “forty days,” but it does seem that God has chosen this number to help emphasize times of trouble and hardship.
Now, here are other places in the Bible were 40 Days and 40 Nights are mentioned. For example, when God destroyed the earth with water, He caused it to rain 40 days and 40 nights (Genesis 7:12).
After Moses killed the Egyptian, he fled to Midian, where he spent 40 years in the desert tending flocks (Acts 7:30).
Moses was on Mount Sinai for 40 days and 40 nights (Exodus 24:18).
Moses interceded on Israel’s behalf for 40 days and 40 nights (Deuteronomy 9:18, 25).
The Law specified a maximum number of lashes a man could receive for a crime, setting the limit at 40 (Deuteronomy 25:3).
The Israelite spies took 40 days to spy out Canaan (Numbers 13:25).
The Israelites wandered for 40 years (Deuteronomy 8:2-5).
Before Samson’s birth, Israel served the Philistines for 40 years (Judges 13:1).
Goliath taunted Saul’s army for 40 days before David arrived to slay him (1Samuel 17:16).
When Elijah fled from Jezebel, he traveled 40 days and 40 nights to Mt. Horeb (1Kings 19:7& 8).
The number 40 also appears in the prophecies of Ezekiel (4:6; 29:11-13) and Jonah (3:4).
In the New Testament, Jesus was tempted for 40 days and 40 nights (Matthew 4:2).
There were 40 days between Jesus’ resurrection and ascension (Acts 1:3).
Now, Notice Again Matthew 4:2 And when Jesus had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. (Stop Here.)
Notice that Jesus was “hungry!” In the early stage or the second stage of “Starvation.”
*A significant Lost of weight. *Physical energy depleted.
(Question) So, how long human beings can go without food is an open question. Estimates indicate that starving people become weak in 30 to 50 days and die in 43 to 70 days. Individual factors including gender, age, starting weight, and water intake all play a role in how long someone can live without food.
And how long can the human body go without water? The general consensus is that people can survive for around three days without water, with estimates typically ranging from two days to a week. Wilderness guides often refer to the “rule of 3”, which says that a person can live for 3 minutes without air (oxygen), 3 days without water, and 3 weeks without food.
Now, notice again Matthew 4:2. And when Jesus had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. (Stop Here.)
Remember, this attack by Satan centered around a basic need that every human being needs and that is “food!”
Sermon Notes For 4-17-24 Part 4. From The Gospel Of Matthew 4: 1-11, The Authentication Process That The Messiah King. The Lord Jesus Had To Experience Before His Earthly Ministry Could Begin.
Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew 4:
Today, let’s continue with this portion of The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11. And remember here in The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11, represents the second and final part of the authentication process that The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus had to experience before His earthly ministry could begin.
Now, notice Matthew 4:
1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.
2 And when Jesus had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. (Stop here)
Now, this pre-arranged showdown between God the Son who is now the God Man, Jesus the Christ. And the fallen one Lucifer, who is now the devil and Satan, the god of this world.
According to 2nd Corinthians 4: 4, whose minds, this is referring to the unsaved, the god of this world or age, referring to the evil one, who has blinded, for they do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God should shine upon them.
Listen, the devil was allowed, given permission and an opportunity to test, to tempt, to challenge Christ Jesus, because from His birth unto this point in His earthly life at 30 years of age.
(Question) had Jesus now become contaminated in some ways living in this fallen world?
Or, had He been compromised to do as He pleased, forgetting His purpose?
And most importantly, would He who is seen as the last Adam, would He be like the first Adam and take matters into his own hands instead of *depending upon The Lord? *Trusting in The Lord. *Waiting on The Lord. *Submitting unto The Lord. *Accepting The Will of The Lord!
Now, let’s see 1st Corinthians 15:
45. And so it is written, the first man Adam became a living being. But the last Adam became a life-giving being or Spirit.
47. The first man or Adam was of the earth made of the ground. But the second Man or Adam is The Lord from Heaven!
Now, see Genesis 3: 6. So, when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate.
She also gave unto her husband Adam with her and he ate.
Now, see Romans 5:
12. Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned.
19. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man's obedience many will be made righteous.
Now, back to The Gospel of Matthew 4.
Now, notice The Gospel of Matthew 4:3. Now when the tempter came to Jesus, (Stop there)
(Note) This word, the tempter is actually the same Greek N.T. word that was mentioned in Matthew 4: 1. “Then Jesus was led up by The Spirit into the Wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And here in vs. 3 we have the exact Greek N.T. word again!
A Strong Definition for “Tempted” or “Tempter” from The Greek N.T. word πειράζω peirázō,
pi-rad'-zo. Which can mean, to try, make trial of, test: for the purpose of ascertaining his quality, or what he thinks, or how he will behave himself in a good sense, in a bad sense, to test one maliciously, craftily to put to the proof his feelings or judgments to try or test one's faith, virtue, character, by enticement to sin to solicit to sin, to tempt of the temptations of the devil after the OT usage of God: to inflict evils upon one in order to prove his character and the steadfastness of his faith men are said to tempt God by exhibitions of distrust, as though they wished to try whether he is not justly distrusted by impious or wicked conduct to test God's justice and patience, and to challenge him, as it were to give proof of his perfections.
Now, notice again The Gospel of Matthew 4:3. Now when the tempter came to Jesus, (Stop there)
Now, let’s see James 1:13 Let no one say when they are tempted, I am tempted by God for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does God Himself tempt anyone. (Stop here)
(Note) this can remind us that the devil serves a purpose in which God allows and permits him at least for now.
But the devil serves a purpose in which he is allowed to solicit by means of evil or sinful desires which exposes what’s in the hearts of a person or persons. And therefore, if we think about it, Satan is just another servant for God who is in subjection unto God and must obey God what God has determines and purposed!
Remember The Book of Job, chapters one and two!
Now, notice again James 1: 13 Let no one say when they are tempted, I am tempted by God for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does God Himself tempt anyone.
14 (But) each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.
15 Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin when it is full-grown or develop, brings forth death.
Also, let’s see 1st Corinthians 10:1.3 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common unto man.
*But God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able.
*But with the temptation will also make the way of escape that you may be able to bear it.
And lastly, let’s see Hebrews 4: 15. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, But He, Himself was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin!
(Question) If Jesus was not capable of sinning, the how could He truly be able to sympathize with our weaknesses, if He could not sin, what was the point of his temptation?
How many you are familiar with the theological doctrine called, “The Impeccability of Jesus Christ.” The impeccability of Jesus Christ, the God-Man who was virgin born.
Here is a real good biblical article on this very important theological doctrine, that you can see for yourself and make up your own mind. There are two sides to this interesting question. It is important to remember that this is not a question of whether Jesus sinned. Both sides agree, as the Bible clearly says, that Jesus did not sin.
Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:22.
The question is whether Jesus could have sinned. Those who hold to "impeccability" believe that Jesus could not have sinned. Those who hold to "peccability" believe that Jesus could have sinned but did not. Which view is correct? The clear teaching of Scripture is that Jesus was impeccable Jesus could not have sinned. If He could have sinned, He would still be able to sin today because He retains the same essence He did while living on earth. He is the God-Man and will forever remain so, having full deity and full humanity so united in one person as to be indivisible. To believe that Jesus could sin is to believe that God could sin. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him" (Colossians 1:19). Colossians 2:9 adds, "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form."
Although Jesus is fully human, He was not born with the sinful nature that we are born with.
He certainly was tempted in the same way we are, in that temptations were put before Him by Satan, yet He remained sinless because God is incapable of sinning.
It is against His very nature (Matthew 4:1; Hebrews 2:18, 4:15; James 1:13).
Sin is by definition a trespass of the Law. God created the Law, and the Law is by nature what God would or would not do; therefore, sin is anything that God would not do by His very nature.
To be tempted is not, in and of itself, sinful. A person could tempt you with something you have no desire to do, such as committing murder or participating in sexual perversions. You probably have no desire whatsoever to take part in these actions, but you were still tempted because someone placed the possibility before you. There are at least two definitions for the word "tempted,"
1) To have a sinful proposition suggested to you by someone or something outside yourself or by your own sin nature.
2) To consider actually participating in a sinful act and the possible pleasures and consequences of such an act to the degree that the act is already taking place in your mind.
The first definition does not describe a sinful act/thought; the second does. When you dwell upon a sinful act and consider how you might be able to bring it to pass, you have crossed the line of sin. Jesus was tempted in the fashion of definition one, except that He was never tempted by a sin nature because it did not exist within Him. Satan proposed certain sinful acts to Jesus, but He had no inner desire to participate in the sin. Therefore, He was tempted like we are but remained sinless.
Those who hold to peccability believe that, if Jesus could not have sinned, He could not have truly experienced temptation, and therefore, could not truly empathize with our struggles and temptations against sin. We have to remember that one does not have to experience something in order to understand it.
God knows everything about everything. While God has never had the desire to sin, and has most definitely never sinned, God knows and understands what sin is.
God knows and understands what it is like to be tempted. Jesus can empathize with our temptations because He knows, not because He has "experienced" all the same things we have.
Jesus knows what it is like to be tempted, but He does not know what it is like to sin. This does not prevent Him from assisting us. We are tempted with sins that are common to man.
(1 Corinthians 10:13). These sins generally can be boiled down to three different types: "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life".
(1 John 2:16). Examine the temptation and sin of Eve, as well as the temptation of Jesus, and you will find that the temptations for each came from these three categories.
Jesus was tempted in every way and in every area that we are but remained perfectly Holy. Although our corrupt natures will have the inner desire to participate in some sins, we have the ability, through Christ, to overcome sin because we are no longer slaves to sin but rather slaves of God (Romans 6, especially verses 2 and 16-22).
Now, back to The Gospel of Matthew 4.
Now, notice The Gospel of Matthew 4:3. Now when the tempter came to Jesus, he said
If You are the Son of God, command that these stones to become bread! (Stop here)
This first assault or attack, this subtle temptation to encourage someone to, “take matters into their own hands.” This is still Satan’s #1 temptation that he and his minions will often use against human beings in order that they might sin against God!
Now, notice again The Gospel of Matthew 4:3. Now, when the tempter came to Jesus, he said
If You are the Son of God, (Stop here)
First, here in Matthew 4: 3, in most of our English Bibles the word “If” appears, and it gives the impression of doubt or uncertainty. But actually that is not what is being said here in this case. actually, our English word “Since” would be more accurate. *Implying there’s no doubt. *There’s no question. *And there’s no confusion regarding who You are!
Remember Satan’s #1 temptation that is often use against human beings, is to encourage someone to, “take matters into their own hands.” “You deserve better than this!” ”You have worked very hard, and this is not fair.” “You are God therefore, you are entitled to have whatever you want!” Take matters into your own hands, because God helps those that help themselves! But is any of these tempting ideas right?
Do you believe that this is how the Lord would speak unto you When you are in need? When you are frustrated? When you feel forgotten? When you are lonely?
Now, let’s see Philippians 4:19. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Now, See Psalms 23: 1. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Now, See Psalms 37: 3. Trust in the LORD and do good; So shall you dwell in the land, and verily you shall be fed.
Now, Also see Psalms 37: 25. I have been young, and now am old; Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor His descendants begging bread.
Now, back to The Gospel of Matthew 4.
Now, notice again The Gospel of Matthew 4:3. Now, when the tempter came to Jesus, he said,
Since You are the Son of God, Command that these stones to become bread! (Stop here)
All around The Lord Jesus Christ in that wilderness, were these biscuit-size stones, a subtle reminder that before Him was a way to satisfy himself, instead of waiting on the Lord to provide.
Now, notice again The Gospel of Matthew 4:4. But Jesus answered and said it is written (Deuteronomy 8: 3), Man or a person shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. (Stop here)
Jesus said, It is written!
See Psalms 119: 11. Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You!
Now, let’s see The Gospel of Luke 4:
3 And the devil said to Jesus, if or since You are the Son of God command this stone to become bread.
4 But Jesus answered him saying, It is written (Deuteronomy 8: 3,) Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
Now, see Job 23: 12. I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.
Also, see Jeremiah 15: 16. Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; For I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.
Sermon Notes For 4-24-24 Part 5. From The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11, The Authentication Process That The Messiah King. The Lord Jesus Had To Experience Before His Earthly Ministry Could Begin
Now, let’s turn to The Gospel of Matthew 4:
Today, let’s continue with this portion of The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11. And remember, here in The Gospel of Matthew 4: 1-11, represents the second and final part of the authentication process that The Messiah King, The Lord Jesus had to experience before His Earthly Ministry could begin.
Now, let’s notice The Gospel of Matthew 4:
5 Then the devil took Jesus up into the Holy City and set Him on the pinnacle of the Temple,
6 And said unto Jesus, if or since You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: (Psalm 91: 11) He shall give His angels charge over you and in their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Now, let’s see The Gospel of Luke 4:
9 Then Satan brought Jesus to Jerusalem and set Jesus upon the pinnacle of the temple. And said to Jesus, If or since You are the Son of God throw Yourself down from here or jump off
10 For it is written: (Psalm 91: 11) He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you,
11 And in their hands they shall bear you up or catch you, lest you dash your foot against a stone. (Stop here)
According to a Jewish Historian Josephus, the Second Temple, also known as Herod’s Temple. At his highest point it was 100 cubits (about 45 meters) or, 151 ft tall.
Now, to give you a comparison, the Statue of Liberty from it’s base all the way up to the torch that Lady Liberty holds in her hand that distance is approximately 151 feet tall.
Now, notice again The Gospel of Luke 4:9. Then Satan brought Jesus to Jerusalem, and set Jesus upon the pinnacle of the temple. And said to Jesus, If or since You are the Son of God throw Yourself down from here or jump off for no other reason than to impress those who would see you float down to the ground. (Stop here)
Now, let’s see Psalms 19:
13. David is speaking, Keep back Your Servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them, those presumptuous sins, not to have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless and I shall be innocent of great transgression.
14. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. (Stop here)
Now, notice again Psalms 19: 13A. David is speaking, Keep back Your Servant also from presumptuous sins; (Note) Some newer Bible translations instead use words like: deliberate,
willful, arrogant, insolent, flagrant.
Vs. 13A. Keep back Your Servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them those presumptuous sins, not to have dominion over me. (Stop here)
(Question) So what are presumptuous sins?
There are some form of the word “Presumptuous” that appears eight times in the King James Version. And the word presumptuous indicates an intentionality and audacity in rebellion.
A presumptuous sin can be committed by a single person (Exodus 21:14; Numbers 15:30; Deuteronomy 17:12; 18:22; Psalm 19:13), or a multiple people (2 Peter 2:10), or the entire nation of Israel (Deuteronomy 1:43; 17:13).
The phrase presumptuous sins is found only once in the KJV. Most older translations use the word presumptuous, while newer translations instead use deliberate, willful, arrogant, insolent, flagrant, or similar words. Here is the passage in the Revised Standard Version, including the previous verse for context: “Who can discern his errors? Clear thou me from hidden faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression” (Psalm 19:12–13).
The author of Psalm 19, King David, presents two types of sin, hidden (unintentional, accidental, secret, unseen by the sinner) and presumptuous (deliberate, intentional). We all know that our intentional sins need God’s forgiveness (Exodus 32:33; Mark 3:29). But God’s perfect law also requires our unintentional sins to be atoned for (Leviticus 4; 5:17; Numbers 15:22–29). So, David humbly prays to God for protection from and forgiveness of both kinds of sin, knowing his own human weakness and powerlessness against this enemy, this disease of the soul, this foreign invader in all humans (1 John 1:8).
Presumptuous sins are deliberate. They are committed with the full knowledge that they are sins and in full light of what God has said. Presumptuous sins are premeditated. There is intent to sin and a time of deliberation before the act. Presumptuous sins can only be committed in suppression of the conscience and in spite of its appeals. Those who sin presumptuously say, in effect, “I’m going to do this, and nothing is going to stop me. I know what God says about it, and I don’t care if it’s wrong. I’m going to do it anyway.”
Presumptuous sins are sins committed in willful defiance of God are a grave offense.
In fact, Numbers 15:30–31, the Old Testament law specified that someone guilty of willful, defiant sin was to be cut off from among his people” Charles Spurgeon pointed out, “All sins are great sins but yet, some sins are greater than others. While all transgression is a greatly grievous sinful thing, yet there are some transgressions which have a deeper shade of blackness, and a more double scarlet-dyed hue of criminality than others” (from Sermon 135, New Park Street Pulpit, Volume 3). A presumptuous sin would certainly have a “deeper shade.”
Presumptuous sin is committed in direct contradiction to what a person knows is true. We can know that something is wrong we’ve spoken out against it, and we’ve counseled others to avoid it but, given opportunity, temptation, and a moment of weakness, we can succumb to the very sin we were sure we would never commit. We knew it was wrong, even as we were doing it, but that knowledge did not prevent us from deliberately moving forward in our sin. It’s almost inexplicable, until we remember the nature of the human heart.
Committing presumptuous sin does great damage to one’s relationship with the Lord. But there is forgiveness available in Christ. God is merciful to the repentant: “Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon” (Isaiah 55:7). Peter, who grievously denied the Lord three times, was restored, and God’s plan for him continued. David, who murdered a man and took his wife, was forgiven and restored to a place of blessing. God can forgive all sin in Christ (1 John 1:7–9).
John Calvin wrote, “Unless God restrain us, our hearts will violently boil with a proud and insolent contempt of God” (Commentary on Psalms, note on Psalm 19:13). That’s why David prayed, “Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me!” (Psalm 19:13, ESV). May God be our defender against temptation and grant us wisdom to recognize defiance within us and strength to resist it. May we be preserved from the audacity of presumptuous sins.
So, when it comes to presumptuous sins there are 2 things that stand out to me. (First), A presumptuous sin can also be when anyone presume upon The Grace of God by willfully putting themselves in danger, expecting God to deliver them, protect them or save them.
For example, it be like a person trying to cross a busy freeway with a blindfold around their eyes, saying that they have faith that God will protect them and therefore they will not be hit.
Now, see The Gospel of Mark 16:
17 Jesus is speaking, and these signs will follow those who believe, In My name, *they will cast out demons; *They will speak with new tongues;
18 *They will take up or can handle with their hands serpents. *And if they drink anything deadly it will by no means hurt them. *They will lay hands upon on the sick, and they will recover. (Stop there)
A Presumptuous Sin can also be when anyone presume upon The Grace of God by willfully putting themselves in danger or in harms way, them expecting God to deliver them, protect them or save them.
And the secondly, presumptuous sin is the sin of self-aggrandizement which says or thinks, look at me! •Notice how great I am! •How powerful I am! •How spiritual I am! •Notice how much better I am than others!
Now, let’s see The Book of Daniel 4:
28 All this came upon King Nebuchadnezzar.
29 At the end of the twelve months he was walking about the royal palace of Babylon.
30 And King Nebuchadnezzar. spoke saying, *Is not this great Babylon that I have built for a royal dwelling, *By my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?
31 While the word was still in the king's mouth, a voice came from heaven saying: King Nebuchadnezzar to you it is spoken: the kingdom has departed from you!
32 And they shall drive you from men, and your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. They shall make you eat grass like oxen; and seven times shall pass over you, until you know that the Most-High rules in the kingdom of men and gives it to whomever He chooses.
33 So, that very hour the word was fulfilled concerning Nebuchadnezzar; he was driven from men and ate grass like oxen; his body was wet with the dew of heaven till his hair had grown like eagles' feathers and his nails like birds' claws.
Now, back to The Gospel of Matthew 4.
Now, let’s notice The Gospel of Matthew 4:7. But Jesus said unto the devil, It is written again, (Deuteronomy 6: 16) You shall not tempt The Lord your God.
Now, let’s also see The Gospel of Luke 4:12 and Jesus answered and said unto the devil, it has been said, (Deuteronomy 6: 16) You shall not tempt the Lord your God.
So once again, no one should presume upon the Grace of God by willfully putting themselves in danger or in harms way, them expecting God to deliver them, protect them or save them.
Now, back to The Gospel of Matthew 4.
Now, let’s notice The Gospel of Matthew 4:
8 Again, the devil took Jesus up on an exceedingly high mountain and showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and their Glory or Splendor.
9 And the devil said unto Jesus, all these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me!
Now, let’s also see The Gospel of Luke 4:
5 Then the devil, taking Jesus up on a high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.
6 And the devil said to Jesus, All this authority I will give You, and their Glory or Splendor.
For or because this has been delivered unto me, and I give it to whomever I wish or desire. (Stop here)
Now, there is a view that you might be familiar with which has been taught by some, however when we think about it biblically, it is not accurate.
Now, some have suggested that Satan has control over the Earth because Adam when he fell forfeited and gave over power and dominion and the title deed to the Earth to Satan. And therefore, Satan literally owns the Earth, its splendor, the nations and its inhabitants.
And because of that Satan if desires can give away whatever he chooses to whomever he wants in order to use them for his purposes.
And then some will quote Revelation 13: 2 &4 as an example in which Satan gives whatever he wants in this world to whoever he wants.
See Revelation 13:
2 Now, the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. *The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.
4 So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast. and they worshiped the beast, saying, Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?
Now, please listen carefully to what I’m about to say you may or may not agree. But I truly think Satan overstates his position here in verse 6, "For it has been handed over to me and I give it to whomever I wish."
Satan expresses an inflated opinion of himself and his limited power.
There is some truth to what he says, but Satan always likes to deal in half-Truths.
Now, Satan is called in John 12:31, John 14:30, John 16:11, the prince or ruler of this world.
but it does not mean that he is literally owns the earth nor its inhabitants. What it simply means is that he rules the system of evil that dominates the nations of the world.
So, then who owns the Earth and everything in it?
Well, according to Psalms 24:
1The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein.
2 For the Lord has founded the earth upon the sea and established the earth upon the waters.
And therefore, if we think about it Satan really can't give the earth the kingdoms of the world to anybody. He simply has a limited rule of the system of evil which is also known as the world.
Satan does not determine the nations and who will rule the nations.
In fact, Romans 13: 1 says, the powers that be they are ordained by God.
We must remember that Satan is a liar, and a manipulator of Truth. Satan not only does not have the power or authority to give anything away, it was never his to anyway.