Gospel of Mark Bible Part 4: Temptation of Jesus [Bible Study]
- Rev. Bruce A. Shields
- Jan 26
- 3 min read
Bible Study Title: Victory Over Temptation – Learning from the Example of Jesus
Scripture Focus: Mark 1:12-13
Opening Prayer
Ask God for strength to recognize temptation, wisdom to respond with His Word, and perseverance to remain faithful.
Introduction
After His baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness for 40 days, where He faced direct temptation from Satan. This moment reveals that temptation often comes after spiritual victories and before significant ministry opportunities. Studying this event teaches us how to overcome temptation and remain committed to God’s will.
Bible Reading
Read Mark 1:12-13, then compare with Matthew 4:1-11 and Luke 4:1-13 for the full account.
Section 1 – The Wilderness Test
Jesus was driven by the Spirit into the wilderness—not to be destroyed, but to be tested and proven faithful.
God tests to strengthen faith, not to entice to sin (James 1:13-14).
Like David (Psalm 26:2) and Abraham (Genesis 22:1-18), testing reveals genuine faith.
Jesus fasted 40 days, a number often tied to testing (Moses, Elijah).
Discussion Questions:
Why might God allow seasons of testing in our lives?
How does knowing Jesus faced temptation encourage you when you are tested?
Section 2 – The Three Temptations
1. Lust of the Flesh – Hunger (Matthew 4:3-4)Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread. Jesus replied with Deuteronomy 8:3, showing that spiritual food is more important than physical.
2. Pride of Life – Testing God (Matthew 4:5-7)Satan quoted Scripture (Psalm 91) to urge Jesus to jump from the temple to “prove” His identity. Jesus answered with Deuteronomy 6:16—God’s power is not for reckless displays.
3. Lust of the Eyes – Worldly Power (Matthew 4:8-10)Satan offered the kingdoms of the world for worship. Jesus refused, quoting Deuteronomy 6:13—worship belongs to God alone.
Discussion Questions:
Which of these temptations is most common in your life right now?
How can knowing Scripture protect you when Satan distorts it for his purposes?
Section 3 – Tools for Overcoming Temptation
The Word of God – Jesus countered every temptation with “It is written” (Ephesians 6:17).
Faith in God’s Plan – Trusting God’s timing and purpose even when a shortcut looks easier (Hebrews 10:35-39).
Prayer and Watchfulness – Staying alert to weakness (Matthew 26:41).
Discussion Questions:
How much time do you spend preparing with Scripture before temptation strikes?
What role does prayer play in resisting temptation in your life?
Section 4 – The Devil’s Strategy
Satan often tempts with what we already desire.
He disguises lies with Scripture to make sin appear “God-approved.”
Without knowing the Word accurately (2 Timothy 2:15), we can be misled.
Reflection: Have you ever been tempted with something that seemed harmless or even spiritual at first glance? How did you discern the truth?
Memory Verse
Hebrews 4:15-16 – “For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things like we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Closing Challenge
Jesus overcame temptation not by sheer willpower, but by standing on the truth of God’s Word, trusting the Father’s plan, and refusing to compromise. We have the same enemy, the same temptations, and—through Christ—the same tools to claim victory.
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