“For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15).
Jesus was far more than a “good”, moral teacher. He was sinless (1 Peter 2:22). He was not sinless because it was impossible for Him to sin. He was sinless because of His tenacious, uncompromising commitment to God and His mission.
This verse contains two vital and noteworthy truths about Jesus.
First, He was tempted in every possible way Satan tempts humanity. The Adversary left none of his devices or schemes unused. He employed every weapon in his arsenal—deceit, bold faced lies, half-truths, subtle suggestions, peer pressure, family ties, physical abuse, verbal abuse, and death. Jesus’ faith and commitment to God were tested exhaustively. Jesus’ victory over sin was not because Satan went about his business halfheartedly.
Second, Jesus is sinless. At no time did He fall short or go beyond the bullseye of God’s will. He never strayed to the right hand or to the left from the strait and narrow way. His spiritual victory was hard fought and total. He committed no sin.
Our great high priest’s moral and spiritual superiority is vast because of these two vital and noteworthy truths about Jesus and sin.
