1. Matthew 4:6 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

How does the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness compare to the temptation in Paradise (Genesis 3)?

Matthew 4:6 (ESV)

6 and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, “‘He will command his angels concerning you,’and “‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’”

The temptation of Jesus exhibits the very same pattern as that experienced by Adam and Eve in paradise (Genesis 3:1–6). In both cases it is entirely based on casting doubt with regard to God’s spoken word: Have God truly said? and If you are the Son of God.1

Jesus’ temptation by Satan parallels Adam and Eve’s temptation in Eden in Satan’s casting doubt on God’s word: Has God truly said? (Genesis 3:1) and If you are the Son of God (Matthew 4:6).