Footnote

c Luke’s Gospel lists the temptations in a different order, but Matthew’s account is evidently chronological. Consider three reasons why. (1) Matthew introduces the second temptation with the word “then,” suggesting that it was next in sequence. (2) It seems logical that the two subtle temptations​—each beginning with the phrase, “If you are a son of God”—​would be followed by the overt temptation to break the first commandment. (Ex. 20:2, 3) (3) Jesus’ words “Go away, Satan!” would more naturally have followed the third and final temptation.​—Matt. 4:5, 10, 11.