Mark 1:12-13
12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness,
13 and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.
Mark 1:12-13: Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 12: The phrase “At once” indicates immediacy. After Jesus’ baptism, the Holy Spirit leads Him into the wilderness. This shows the Spirit’s active role in Jesus’ ministry. The wilderness is a place of testing and preparation. It symbolizes isolation and struggle. Jesus is being prepared for His mission.
Verse 13: Jesus spends forty days in the wilderness. The number forty is significant in the Bible. It often represents periods of testing or judgment. During this time, Jesus faces temptation from Satan. This highlights His humanity and His role as the second Adam. Unlike Adam, Jesus resists temptation. The mention of wild animals emphasizes the harsh conditions. Yet, angels attend to Him, showing divine support. This verse underscores Jesus’ dual nature: fully human, fully divine.