The enemy imagined, says St. Cyprian, that He whom he could not overcome by gluttony might yield to the temptation of vainglory. He, therefore, was permitted to carry Christ through the air, and to place Him on the top of the temple of Jerusalem. He then attempted to persuade Him to cast Himself down and prevent Himself from being injured, in order that those who were below, being astonished at the miracle, might begin to know and honor Him. Ponder how subtle and dangerous a temptation this is, because man is naturally covetous of praise and honor, and examine whether vainglory does not sometimes insinuate itself into your actions.
II. "Cast Thyself down," said the Tempter to Christ. Such is the language which he addresses to all sinners; for to sin is really to fall down. He endeavors to persuade all men to cast themselves down, that is, to bend their thoughts and cares and affections to the things of this earth, and to immerse themselves in them. Examine, in general, by what temptations you are assaulted, and how you resist them. Do not listen to him, but rather attend to the words of the Apostle: "Seek the things that are above; mind the things that are above, not the things that are on the earth." (Col. iii. i.)
III. How resolutely Christ resists this temptation to vainglory, and by His reply disconcerts His adversary. "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God." (Matt. iv. 7.) We must not tempt God, that is, we must not expect miracles from God, when we can gain the object by employing human means. Learn, therefore, both to contemn the applause and esteem of the world, and not to expect extraordinary favors, visitations, or illustrations from God. These wishes are inconsistent with the spirit of humility and " every proud man is an abomination to the Lord." (Prov. xvi. 5.)
