I. Our supply for ministry must come from God. (Matt. 4:1-4)
A. The only appropriate means of gaining those things that are necessary for life and ministry is through the hand of God.
B. Physical necessity pales in comparison with spiritual necessity.
C. Power is never to be used for personal gratification.
D. Life is to be lived by faith; it does not consist of the things of this world.
II. Our standard for ministry is given by God. (Matt. 4:5-7)
A. Life is to be lived in dependence on God. (One is never to intentionally place himself in a position in which He tests God.)
B. The goals of God cannot be accomplished through theatrical shortcuts, but only through the means that God ordains.
C. Recognition and popularity are never to be gained at the expense of holiness.
D. Spiritual ends will only be accomplished through spiritual means.
III. Our submission in ministry must be to God. (Matt. 4:8-11)
A. Acquisition of earthly power and riches is not to be the focal point of life or ministry.
B. The Lord alone must be worshiped or else He will not be served.