tempter
In Scripture, “the tempter” is a title for Satan as the one who entices people to sin and tests their obedience to God. The term is used especially in connection with Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness.
At a Glance
In Scripture, “the tempter” is a title for Satan as the one who entices people to sin and tests their obedience to God. The term is used especially in connection with Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness.
Description
“The tempter” is a biblical title for Satan that highlights his activity of enticing human beings toward disobedience, unbelief, and spiritual ruin. The clearest New Testament use is in the account of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, where the tempter approaches Christ but fails to turn Him from faithful obedience. Scripture distinguishes God’s holy testing from Satan’s evil intent to seduce into sin; Satan may tempt, deceive, and accuse, but he remains under God’s sovereign rule and is never equal to God. For believers, the term serves as a warning to watchfulness, prayer, and reliance on God’s truth, while also pointing to Christ’s victory over the evil one.