The correct option is
C. bow down and worship him on a mountain.
Detailed Explanation:
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Context of the Temptation: The last temptation of Jesus by the devil is described in the Gospels, specifically in Matthew 4:8-10 and Luke 4:5-8. After Jesus had fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness, the devil approached Him with three temptations. Each temptation was designed to challenge Jesus' identity and mission as the Son of God.
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The Third Temptation: The third and final temptation involved the devil taking Jesus to a very high mountain and showing Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. The devil then offered Jesus all these kingdoms if He would bow down and worship him. This temptation was significant because it appealed to Jesus' authority and the desire for power and dominion over the world.
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Why Option C is Correct:
- Worship and Authority: The essence of this temptation was about worship and allegiance. The devil was essentially asking Jesus to forsake His mission and authority as the Son of God in exchange for worldly power. Jesus’ refusal to bow down and worship the devil affirmed His commitment to God and His mission.
- Biblical Reference: In Matthew 4:10, Jesus responds, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'" This response highlights the importance of worshiping God alone and not yielding to temptations of power that come from the devil.
Why the Other Options are Wrong:
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Option A: Change stone to bread: This was the first temptation where the devil challenged Jesus to turn stones into bread to satisfy His hunger. While this was indeed a temptation, it was not the last one. It focused on physical needs rather than the ultimate allegiance to God.
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Option B: Jump from the pinnacle of the temple: This was the second temptation where the devil asked Jesus to throw Himself down from the temple, suggesting that angels would save Him. This temptation was about testing God’s protection and was also not the last temptation. It was more about proving His divinity rather than a direct challenge to worship.
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Option D: Refuse to heal the blind man: This option is not part of the biblical account of Jesus' temptations. It does not appear in the Gospels as a temptation from the devil. Instead, Jesus performed many miracles, including healing the blind, which demonstrated His compassion and divine authority.
Summary of Key Points:
- The last temptation of Jesus was to bow down and worship the devil in exchange for worldly power (Option C).
- This temptation was significant as it challenged Jesus' mission and authority as the Son of God.
- The first two temptations (turning stones to bread and jumping from the temple) were not the last and focused on physical needs and testing God.
- Option D does not relate to the biblical account of Jesus' temptations.
Revision Summary:
- The last temptation of Jesus was to worship the devil for worldly kingdoms (Option C).
- Jesus' refusal emphasized the importance of worshiping God alone.
- The first two temptations were about physical needs and testing God, not ultimate allegiance.
- Understanding the context of these temptations is crucial for grasping Jesus' mission and identity.