In the New Testament, Jesus' responses to various situations, questions, and challenges are pivotal in understanding His teachings, character, and mission. His responses are marked by wisdom, authority, compassion, and a deep understanding of human nature and divine will. These responses are recorded across the Gospels and provide insight into His role as the Messiah and the Son of God.

Response to Temptation

One of the earliest recorded responses of Jesus is during His temptation in the wilderness. After fasting for forty days and nights, Jesus is tempted by Satan. His responses are rooted in Scripture, demonstrating His reliance on God's Word. To the temptation of turning stones into bread, Jesus responds, "It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’" (Matthew 4:4). This response highlights the spiritual sustenance found in God's Word over physical needs.

Response to Religious Leaders

Jesus often faced challenges from the Pharisees and Sadducees, who sought to trap Him with questions. In Matthew 22:15-22, when asked about paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus responds with profound wisdom: "Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s" (Matthew 22:21). This response not only evades their trap but also delineates the relationship between civic duty and spiritual obligation.

Response to Sinners

Jesus' response to sinners is characterized by grace and forgiveness. In John 8:1-11, when a woman caught in adultery is brought before Him, Jesus challenges her accusers, saying, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to cast a stone at her" (John 8:7). His response leads to the accusers leaving one by one, and He tells the woman, "Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more" (John 8:11). This response underscores His mission to seek and save the lost, offering redemption rather than condemnation.

Response to His Disciples

Jesus' interactions with His disciples often involve teaching and correction. In Matthew 16:13-20, when Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ, Jesus responds by affirming Peter's insight as divinely revealed and speaks of the foundational role Peter will play in the Church. Conversely, when Peter later rebukes Jesus for speaking of His impending death, Jesus responds sternly, "Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me" (Matthew 16:23). These responses illustrate Jesus' commitment to truth and the necessity of understanding His mission.

Response to Suffering and Death

In the face of suffering and death, Jesus' responses reveal His obedience to the Father's will and His compassion for humanity. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He prays, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39). This response exemplifies His submission to God's plan for salvation. On the cross, Jesus' response to those crucifying Him is one of forgiveness: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). His response in suffering is a testament to His love and mercy.

Response to Resurrection

After His resurrection, Jesus' responses to His followers are filled with reassurance and commissioning. To Mary Magdalene, He says, "Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father" (John 20:17), indicating the new phase of His mission. To His disciples, He gives the Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). These responses affirm His victory over death and the continuation of His work through His followers.

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus' responses are integral to His teaching and reveal His divine authority, compassion, and purpose. They continue to guide and inspire believers in their faith and understanding of God's kingdom.