Matthew 4:1-11 is a central verse in the season of Lent. In this account, we see Jesus (second Adam) doing what First Adam could not do: overcome Satan.

In this encounter, Christ is victorious over temptation and, by resisting Satan in the desert, overthrows the notion that a man cannot resist the tempter. Robert Webber says it best: “This moment is seen as a turning point in the process of reversing the human situation.” Christ is victorious for us, doing what the original man could not do. God has become one of us and lives the life we could not live, inviting us to live in the same victory. The power of Jesus Christ is present at every moment of temptation. This brings great hope.

Romans 5:12-21 offers a great comparison of the first and Second Adam. Verse 19 sums it up well:

“Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous.”

Adam brings death and brokenness; Christ brings new life and victory for everyone.

I’m thankful for the cross and the victory of Christ over sin — especially since He invites me to live in the same victory.