Inquiry and Instruction on Temptation of Christ

Today is a second Inquiry and Instruction from Robert E. Webber

Question: Why do we focus on the temptation of Christ during Lent?

Answer: The temptation is closely linked to the death of Christ.

Question: How?

Answer: Christ came to destroy the kingdom of the devil by His death. In the beginning of His ministry He showed his power over evil and the evil one.

Question: Why is this important to us during Lent?

Answer: For two reasons. First, you cannot understand the ministry of Jesus, which we celebrate during Lent, unless you know that Jesus has already given Satan notice of his sure doom. Jesus' ministry of casting out demons and healing the sick is possible only because He has already gained power over the evil one.

Question: What is the second reason?

Answer: The second reason why we celebrate Christ's power over evil during Lent has to do with us. He gives us His vicotry so that we too can overcome the temptation of sin that comes our way.

Prayer Psalm
Lord, do not remember the sins of our youth,
Nor our transgressions.
According to Your mercy remember us,
For Your goodness' sake, O Lord.
Show us Your ways, O Lord;
Teach us Your paths.
Lead us in Your truth and teach us,
For You are the God of our salvation;
On You we wait all the day.
To You, O Lord, we lift up our soul.
O our God, we trust in You. Amen.

Adaption of Psalm 25:4-7 by Robert E. Webber

Go forth and sin no more.

Source: Robert Webber, The Family Book of Prayer (Hendrickson, 1996).