The Temptation on the Mountain – Part 4
Main Idea
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the Lord Jesus Christ’s words to Satan: “Get behind Me, Satan,” explaining that God does not allow Satan to fight against human beings without limits, but sometimes intervenes to restrict his attacks and grant people rest. He emphasizes that the spiritual battles God permits are within the limits of what a person can resist, while God prevents other battles and temptations that the person might not be able to endure. God may allow certain temptations so that a person becomes aware of his weakness, humbles himself before God, and holds firmly to Him in prayer, rather than falling into despair, fear, or anxiety.
Spiritual Message
Pope Shenouda explains that Satan does not possess absolute authority, but remains under God’s authority, as God rebukes him and places limits on his attacks. This gives us comfort and reassurance because God does not abandon His children during times of distress. He also emphasizes that God has given human beings authority to resist evil. Therefore, a person should not surrender to Satan’s attacks, cooperate with him, or allow him to control the heart, senses, and thoughts.
Educational Lesson
Pope Shenouda points out that some people surrender to Satan because of weakness, shame, habit, or despair, while others become attached to evil to the point that they do not want to leave it behind. He explains that a person may reject spiritual healing because he does not want to give up his desires and passions, just as a sick person may refuse treatment despite needing it. Therefore, a person should be honest with himself, genuinely desire spiritual healing, and reject everything that separates him from God.
Practical Application
Pope Shenouda stresses that saying “Get behind Me, Satan” should not be merely a matter of words; it must be accompanied by real action. A person should close the doors through which evil enters his life, stay away from sources of temptation, and purify his heart, thoughts, and everything that affects his spiritual life. He should also reject thoughts that do not please God and bring every thought into obedience to Christ. Pope Shenouda concludes by emphasizing the need to cut off every relationship with evil early, before sin takes root in the heart, so that a person may preserve his purity and holiness and enjoy fellowship with Christ.
For better translation support, please contact the center.
