Question
Dear Gramps,
Because of his great strength, was it hard or easy for Christ to withstand temptation while he was on the earth? If it was hard, then is it still hard for him now? If not, what has changed?
Will
Answer
Dear Will,
It is my opinion that the Savior was not attracted by the temptations of the world nor of the flesh.
When Satan himself appeared before the Savior to offer him all the great things of the world, He quickly and unreservedly rebuked the adversary (Matt 4:1-10). We read in the scriptures that—
He suffered temptations but gave no heed unto them (D&C 20:22).
However, the suffering he underwent to pay the price to an eternal justice for the sins of all humanity was another thing altogether.
Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit–and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink–Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men (D&C 19:18-19).