Matthew 4:1-11

1. Let us learn what a real and mighty enemy we have in the devil.
2. Let us learn that we must not count temptation a strange thing.
3. Let us learn that the chief weapon we ought to use in resisting Satan is the Bible.
4. Let us learn what a sympathizing Savior the Lord Jesus Christ is.

"Let us remember every day, that if we would be saved, we must not only crucify the flesh, and overcome the world, but also "resist the devil."

"Let [Christians] remember there is a devil, and not be surprised to find him near them. To be tempted is in itself no sin. It is the yielding to the temptation, and giving it a place in our hearts, which we must fear."

"Knowledge of the Bible never comes by intuition. It can only be obtained by diligent, regular, daily, attentive, wakeful reading."

"Are they ever tempted by Satan to distrust God's care and goodness? So was Jesus. Are they ever tempted to presume on God's mercy, and run into danger without warrant? So also was Jesus. Are they ever tempted to commit some one great private sin for the sake of some great seeming advantage? So also was Jesus. Are they ever tempted to listen to some misapplication of Scripture, as an excuse for doing wrong? So also was Jesus. He is just the Savior that a tempted people require."

Questions:

1. These verses tell the account of Jesus being tempted by the Devil in the wilderness. Three temptations are met with three faithful responses. Ryle points out, in light of these verses, just how real and mighty an enemy Satan is. Do we pray, as Jesus instructs us, that we would be kept from the evil one? Or does our prayerlessness regarding this expose a light-heartedness toward Satan?
2. Ryle informs us that temptation should not surprise us and to forget this can rob us of joy and peace. Are we often tempted and then discouraged just because we had such an evil thought or serious doubt? If so, have we forgotten that temptation is to be expected in this world? Have we forgotten that it is not a sin to be tempted but only when we yield to the temptation? Let us fear giving into temptation than to being tempted itself.
3. Ryle reminds us that even Jesus, the Son of God, could only repel Satan's attacks by knowing the Word of God. Ryle fears in his day, and so we in ours, that there is not enough Bible reading amongst us. He warns that it is not sufficient to have the Book and that it will do no good if it sits closed at home. In order to yield the Sword of God's Word in battle, we need to diligent, regular, daily, attentive, and wakeful in our reading of the Bible. How are we doing in this area? Does God's Word dwell richly in us? Are we taking steps today that will make us 'mighty in the Scriptures' tomorrow? Ryle warns that if we grudge the time and trouble this will cost us that we are not yet fit for the kingdom of God. If this is true, how will you change this starting today?