The Temptations of JesusSample

The allure of power abuse.

Once again, the enemy tries to get Jesus to fall into the trap of questioning his identity, inviting him to prove his worth based on the number of followers, servants, or armies he possesses. This is the temptation to demonstrate power through position and use it for others to serve you for a purpose that is foreign to God's heart. Perhaps this is the temptation most often used by our leaders: "I want to have the power to showcase what I can do," as if they cannot serve effectively where they are, with what they have, and from there expand their influence.

Social networks have modernized this temptation: the offer to be seen and to matter in the eyes of others, determined by the number of followers one has who are willing to imitate. Power becomes a tool to impose our will rather than serve a greater cause, allowing us to feel spectacular about what we do. Yet, the fine print of the contract states: You must renounce being significant to others since you have chosen to be the center of gravity.

This temptation leads us to seek to impress the audience, neglecting the importance of wielding power with purity to serve a higher cause. The enemy entices us to showcase our ability to mobilize others effortlessly, making a spectacle in the process. It encourages us to view power to subjugate and maintain control. Fallen humanity, lured by the belief that we deserve the power to influence others, risks descending into the dark realm of seeking validation through the harm inflicted upon others.

Even Jesus' disciples fell into the trap of arguing about who is more important. As Jesus was on the verge of arriving in Jerusalem to die on a cross, they believed it was his earthly coronation, which led them to quickly debate who would hold the highest position. In a sense, Jesus' response mirrored the one he gave to his adversaries: God will not change his plans or his way of doing things.

When Jesus said to the enemy, "It is written, do not tempt God," he was telling him that he renounced the shortcut offered by the enemy and the empty use of divine power. The God of redemption cannot be a dictator who breaks his own laws. May the Holy Spirit guide us to use the power or influence we have to accomplish meaningful purposes.