Temptation
Intro: When you are fasting, what is the most tempting food for you?
Study
- Ps. 51:5, Rom 3:2-4 We are imperfect people born into a sinful world, saved by grace, subjected to various temptations.
- 1 Pet. 5:8, Mt 7:13 Some people learn how to deal with temptations, and stand strong, while some cant resist, and backslide when they face temptation.
- 1 Cor 10:13, Ecc. 1:9 The sins and temptations we face aren’t new, these are the same things people have faced for thousands of years.
- James 1:13-15 We must remember God doesn’t tempt us, it is our flesh within that is drawn to evil, and then we choose either to resist, or to give in.
- 1 Cor 10:13, Hosea 4:6 The reason many people backslide when facing temptation, is because they never have a plan for success, so they fail.
- 1 Pet. 5:8, Mt 7:13 Some people learn how to deal with temptations, and stand strong, while some cant resist, and backslide when they face temptation.
- Mt. 4:1-11, 1 Cor 11:1 How Jesus lived his life and how he successfully dealt with temptation is an example to us as to how we can develop a victorious lifestyle.
- Mt. 4:1+2 Jesus was tempted when he was at a weak point, we must remember that satan will come at us at our weak times, in our weak areas.
- Mt 4:3,6,8 Jesus was tempted with instant gratification (Lust) , power, and material things, this covers all temptations we will face as well.
- Mt 4:4,7,10 Jesus responds to all 3 temptations by quoting scriptures, and by firmly resisting, Jesus was victorious and he resisted the temptations.
- Gen 39:12, James 5:16, Job 31:1 We can stand against temptation by #1. running from wrong situations, #2. holding to our convictions, and #3. developing accountability.
- Mt. 4:1+2 Jesus was tempted when he was at a weak point, we must remember that satan will come at us at our weak times, in our weak areas.
Discussion
- Why do you think that so many people seem to backslide because of temptation? Why is it hard to get back up and go on after you have fallen into temptation?
- How are you doing in your personal battle against temptation? What would you say is a weak area in your life that you are tempted in?
- What is your personal strategy to be successful in your battle with temptation? How does this help in your stand against temptation?
- Are there some people you should avoid, things you should get rid of, and accountability you should develop that will help you in your fight against temptation?
End: Pray for any who have backslidden due to giving into temptations, pray for any who need to re- dedicate their lives to Christ, then take requests.