By gathering followers together, he seeks to share his understanding of God with those around him. Although he is not yet sure who he is, or what God is leading him towards, he listens to the advice of John the Baptist and sets out into the desert, drawing a circle around himself and waiting for an answer to the difficulties he is facing. . Rather than a clear answer from God, Jesus receives a visit from the Great Tempter. The strength of his will allows him to overcome these first temptations, which then give him the confidence to return to his disciples, with messianic aspirations. His understanding of himself as Messiah results in ongoing conflict, this time with other Jews. At first he feels he must physically lead people to defy the corrupting powers, but then he realizes that it will take his death to get them to see the situation. He goes so far as to get arrested and is ultimately crucified. While on the cross, Jesus faces his final temptation. He wants to both please God and be a contented human being. It becomes clear that his ultimate temptation is to try to derail his sacrifice, rendering it meaningless. He decides to sacrifice all of himself for the sake of