Is the sequencing of three tests of Jesus at Matthew 22 in chronological order?

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The detail of the order in which the 'tests' (as you refer to them) are arranged is just one part of the evidence regarding the purpose of each book.

Each of the four gospel accounts is quite clearly covering the period of Jesus' presence on earth according to a certain aspect of Jesus Christ's Person.

That aspect is the purpose of the book - to convey a view of Him.

The four together form a complete revelation. Which is then supplemented by the apostolic doctrine of the epistles and the further Revelation in conclusion.

Each account of the 'tests' conveys a different aspect. And chronology is subservient to the expression of that aspect.

It may be that one of those accounts is in chronological order but which one it is, is not actually relevant. What is relevant is Whom He is and What He is.

For that is the purpose of the four books.

John tells us that such was the activity during that period of time, such the complication of interlocking events, such the extent and profundity of what was happening, that if all were documented in fine detail, then he supposes that the world (of men) itself could not properly contain (in sensible documented form) all the content.

But these are written, says John - that we may believe.

And Luke says that many took in hand to write accounts but they had not the full knowledge to do so. Wherefore, he took the task upon himself.

What we have, is what we are supposed to have.

No more and no less.

It may be that what you have seen (a series of 'tests') was not actually a feature in the mind of the writers as they wrote. That there appears to be a certain 'pattern' may - or may not - be relevant.

What is important is the overall purpose of the four authors - and of the One Author of them all.

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