[3.] Or thirdly, In the height of rage, when he perceives other ways not available, and when he hath to do with persons not ignorant of his devices, where he sees he hath no need of a visor, or covert ways of dealing, then he sticks not, if permitted, to tempt or molest openly.
This must teach us not to wonder at such temptations, much less to judge those that may be so molested, as if Satan had a greater share in them, seeing Christ was thus tempted.
CHAPTER VII.
The general view of these temptations.—Of Satan’s gradual proceeding in temptations.—Of reserving a great temptation last.—What a great temptation is; in what cases to be expected.—Of Satan’s using a common road, in comparing these temptations with the ordinary temptations of men.—Of the advantage Satan takes of natural appetite, sense, and affections.
I have done with the proæmium to the temptations. Yet before I open them particularly, I shall take a general view of them. First, By comparing these with the other temptations of Christ during the forty days. Secondly, By comparing these with the temptations of men.
1. First then, If we compare these with the former temptations, and observe that we have no account given us of those temptations, but only in the general, ‘that he was tempted,’ whereas these are particularly set down and recorded, we cannot apprehend less than this, that these last temptations were certainly greater and more remarkable temptations. Hence note,
Obs. 3. That it is Satan’s method to be gradual in his temptations, and that he keeps his greatest temptations to the latter end.
That Satan is gradual in his temptations; this is true of him, if we regard,
(1.) First, The manner of his proceeding, that he drives slowly, entreats gently, and is very careful that he do not over-drive men, but after they are accustomed to his way, he puts on imperiousness and commands them.