When Matthew writes, “Jesus was led by the Spirit,” the word for led is the word anago (αναγω), which means “to lead or bring up.” While this term is not used in the temptations of Jesus in Matthew 4 or Luke 4 (uses ago [αγω]), it is, however, used in Mark 1:12 where the Spirit impelled Jesus to go into the wilderness. So it is interesting, why did Matthew and Luke change this word?

εκβαλλω refers more to casting out. It’s overwhelming use is in the casting out of demons (cf. Matt 7:22; 8:16, 31; 9:33-34; 12:24, 26-28; 17:19) or casting people into places (cf. Matt 8:12; 9:25 [crowd sent out]; 9:38; 10:1, 8; 21:12, 39; 22:13; 25:30) though it does appear elsewhere (e.g., Matt 7:4-5; 12:35; 13:52). It primarily carries a negative connotation where a person is driven out or expelled forcibly or non-voluntarily though it can be used without the connotation of force-yet that is its imagery. It is in this secondary sense that Mark uses this word. It isn’t surprising that Mark uses this more picturesque term, being a gospel of action. However, Matthew and Luke, who are more prolific in their writing, change the word and smooth out the understanding.

However, I like what you say about Mark 1:12. God does indeed throw us into situations where he desires us to depend on Him, grow in our knowledge of Him, and grow in our endurance of temptation. Good words!