Approval

Concluding our journey through the temptations of Jesus in Matthew 4, we see Jesus encounter the temptation for approval: all of the world’s kingdoms and their glory are offered to him, if he would but fall down and worship the Enemy. Jesus rebukes the tempter, states his firm commitment to worship and serve God alone, and once freed from the presence of the Enemy, is ministered to by angels. This moment teaches us about our own need for approval, which is a present reality, but can only be fully satisfied by the author and perfecter of our faith, God himself. The identity Jesus received as the beloved son, in whom God is well-pleased, is ours to share and enjoy when our faith is in our salvation through Christ alone.