Fr. Thomas G. Weinandy: The Temptations of Jesus

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Satan takes Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple [detail] by Sandro Botticelli, 1480–1482 [Sistine Chapel, Vatican]

Fr. Thomas G. Weinandy, OFM, Cap., The Catholic Thing, Feb. 18, 2024

Thomas G. Weinandy, OFM, a prolific writer and one of the most prominent living theologians, is a former member of the Vatican’s International Theological Commission. His newest book is the third volume of Jesus Becoming Jesus: A Theological Interpretation of the Gospel of John: The Book of Glory and the Passion and Resurrection Narratives.

The Gospel reading this year on the first Sunday in Lent is Mark’s summary account of Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness. Matthew’s Gospel provides a fuller depiction, and I will theologically examine both here.

To grasp the significance of Jesus’ temptations we first need to know what immediately preceded it. John the Baptist was baptizing in the Jordan in preparation for the coming of the Messiah. Jesus came to him to be baptized.

In the act of John baptizing Jesus, the heavens were opened, and the Spirit of God descended upon Him like a dove, whereupon a voice from heaven declared: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” ….

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