Just as new life began for God's children through the waters of Genesis, new life also began for God's chosen through the waters of the Red Sea. A few weeks ago, we discussed how new life began for God's people through the waters of baptism, focusing on the baptism of Jesus on the banks of the Jordan River. Immediately after his baptism, Jesus set off into the Judean Wilderness for a 40-day retreat of fasting, prayer, and preparation for his ministry to come. This period in the wilderness is rich with symbolism that connects back to the Old Testament.
The Symbolism of Forty Days
The number 40 holds significant meaning in the scriptures. Jesus's 40 days in the wilderness after his baptism are reminiscent of The Exodus experience for the people of Israel, who spent 40 years in the wilderness after being delivered through the waters of the Red Sea. Additionally, Moses fasted for 40 days on Mount Sinai as he received the law of God in Exodus 34, and Elijah undertook a 40-day fast on Mount Horeb in First Kings 19. This connecting of the dots between the Old and New Testaments is intentional and profound.
Understanding Biblical Typology
This method of connecting the Old Testament to the New Testament is known as biblical typology. It views the people and events of the Old Testament as "types" or foreshadowings of what is ultimately fulfilled in the New Testament. For example, Adam is considered a type of Christ. Paul tells us in Romans 5 that Adam is "a type of the one to come," referring to Jesus. Jesus's obedience in the New Testament undoes the damage caused by Adam's disobedience in Genesis. While Adam brought sin and death into the world, Jesus brings life and righteousness.
The Debate on Scriptural Interpretation
This way of viewing scripture is not universally accepted among scholars. Some argue that interpreting scripture through typology takes away from the historical context of the scripture and its original meaning. However, a combined approach that includes both historical context and typology can offer a fuller understanding of the scriptures. For example, the Passover in Exodus 12 symbolizes God's deliverance from slavery, but through typology, it also foreshadows Christ as the sacrificial lamb.
The Wilderness Experience of Jesus
Jesus's time in the wilderness is a profound act of dependence on God. Fasting for 40 days is not just about going without food; it's about aligning one's spirit with God's spirit. Jesus shows us that real sustenance comes not from bread alone but by clinging to God. This period of fasting prepared Jesus spiritually for the suffering and sacrifice that lay ahead. It was about giving up the temporal to focus on the eternal, to be spiritually ready for his mission.
The Temptations of Jesus
During his time in the wilderness, Jesus faces temptation from Satan, who is known as the tempter of humankind. The first temptation was about physical needs, where Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread. Jesus responds by quoting Deuteronomy 8, saying, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but on every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." This contrasts with Israel's failure in the wilderness, where they grumbled against God due to hunger during The Exodus.
Lessons in Faith and Obedience
The second temptation involved testing God's protection. Satan challenged Jesus to throw himself off the temple, but Jesus refused, quoting Deuteronomy 6: "Do not put the Lord your God to the test." This contrasts with Israel's doubt when they questioned God's presence in the wilderness. The third temptation was about power, where Satan offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world if he worshipped him. Jesus stood firm, quoting Deuteronomy 6:13, "Worship the Lord your God and serve him only."
Relating to Our Own Wilderness Moments
This story is relatable to our own lives, where we often face doubt, test God, or let other things take precedence over our devotion to Him. Yet, Jesus's faithfulness in the wilderness reminds us that our story doesn't end in failure. Through Jesus's victory, we are given the strength to resist temptation, trust God, and walk in faith and obedience. This is the hope we carry forward, knowing that God's faithfulness will never fail us.
In conclusion, the story of Jesus in the wilderness is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from aligning with the eternal rather than the temporal. It encourages us to draw closer to God, resist temptation, and walk in the freedom of His grace. Glory be to the Lord Our God, Jesus the Christ. Amen.
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