Luke 4:1–13: showdown in the desert

After explaining that he is writing an orderly account of the person and work of Jesus for a man named Theophilus (Luke 1:1–4), Luke introduces Jesus to his readers. He begins with the announcement of two special sons to be born: John the Baptist and Jesus (Luke 1:5–56). He then describes key details of each of their births and significant events from their early years (Luke 1:57–2:52). Next, Luke turns to the preparation for Jesus’ ministry, including John the Baptist preparing the way, Jesus’ baptism, and his genealogy (Luke 3:1–38). This season of preparation culminates in today’s passage–the temptation of Jesus.