SPF 187: Temptation

June 10, 2021

No one is above temptation, it will come, so what do we do when it comes knocking? Today I’ll be sharing a few insights about temptation and how we can prove faithful when sin is crouching at our door.

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Temptation

Temptation: Nelson’s Bible Dictionary defines temptation as “an enticement or invitation to sin, with the implied promise of greater good to be derived from following the way of disobedience.

Reading: Matthew 4:1-10

You can’t escape temptation (physically and through good character).

But we are not above temptation – just as Jesus wasn’t

Even in a solitary place …

“In the haunts of men we expect to be tempted, but even seclusion will not guard us from the same trial. Jesus Christ was led away from human society into the wilderness, and was tempted of the devil. Solitude has its charms and its benefits, and may be useful in checking the lust of the eye and the pride of life; but the devil will follow us into the most lovely retreats.” Charles Spurgeon

Godly character does not make us above temptation.

We can and should grow in godly character, but must remember temptation comes to every person.

Genesis 4:6-7

The LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.”

“Do not suppose that it is only the worldly-minded who have dreadful thoughts and blasphemous temptations, for even spiritual-minded persons endure the same; and in the holiest position we may suffer the darkest temptation. The utmost consecration of spirit will not insure you against Satanic temptation. Christ was consecrated through and through. It was his meat and drink to do the will of him that sent him: and yet he was tempted! Your hearts may glow with a seraphic flame of love to Jesus, and yet the devil will try to bring you down to Laodicean lukewarmness.” – Charles Spurgeon

2. Common Temptations: Comfort and Pride

Jesus tempted to have comfort in his extreme discomfort.

Self esteem and self importance that constant need to be affirmed = pride and prestige

3. How to Fight Temptation

How did Jesus fight temptation?

Theology. Good theology.

Jesus got theological. He used Scripture which directed his actions. They sustained him in His weakness to know what to do – what would be obedient and pleasing to the Father. And he knew the right interpretation and application of the Scripture.

Satan used scripture too but he twisted it, that’s why theology is important.

“Like the old knights in war time, we must sleep with helmet and breastplate buckled on, for the arch-deceiver will seize our first unguarded hour to make us his prey. The Lord keep us watchful in all seasons, and give us a final escape from the jaw of the lion and the paw of the bear.” – Charles Spurgeon