“Led up by the Spirit into the wilderness”

Today, we look into what it means when it says Jesus was “led up by the Spirit into the wilderness” (Matt. 4:1). And Mark describes this event as “the Spirit drove Him into the wilderness” (Mark 1:12). For many, the idea of being led is like a parent leading a child to a place he needs to go. But “drove Him” gives us the impression of a cowboy driving cattle against their will.

In fact, there are three different Greek words used to describe the same event.

Then Jesus was led (anagō) up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Mathew 4:1)

Immediately the Spirit drove (ekballō) Him into the wilderness. (Mark 1:12)

Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led (agō) by the Spirit into the wilderness. (Luke 4:1)

So what is happening here? Let’s find out together.