Intro: Temptation is an experience that is common to all Christians. It seems some are tempted more than others but none escape. Many even question their salvation for the many temptations they face.

There is confusion on the meaning of temptation. In the Old Testament almost invariably it means trial or tribulation. Temptation is also the lusts of the flesh drawing us away from our standards, convictions and commandments.

Temptation is an opportunity for God to prove himself to us and for us to prove ourselves to Him (1 Cor. 10:13).

OBSERVATIONS:

Temptation can destroy a freshly planted seed (Lk. 8:13).
Prayer can head off temptation (Lk. 22:46).
The Devil is the tempter (Matt. 4:3).
Your victory through Christ in temptation is a measure of your faith (1 Thess. 3:5).

I. Sources:

[1]. Not God - (James 1:13)
[2]. Satan - (Matt. 4:3; Gen. 3)
[3]. Evil companions - (Prov. 1:10; Ps. 1:1)
[4]. The flesh - (James 1:14)
[5]. Christian Friends - "Get thee behind me Satan. (Peter)"

II. Reasons:

Life is a series of crossroads, a series of choices. Choices are usually made on the basis of habit. Temptation is a proving ground...choice is exercised.

The Circuit of temptation:

[1]. Thought Stimulation
[2]. Two thoughts = consideration
[3]. Temptation
[4]. Choice
[5]. Act
[6]. Habit
[7]. Spiritual stronghold
[8]. Demonic Control

See: James 1:2-3; 1 Peter 1:7; Gen. 22:1 (Our love is proven through testing.

 

III. Limitations on Temptations: (1 Cor. 10:13)

[1]. God sets a time limit.
[2]. God arranges the timing.
[3]. God allows the pressure.

[a]. He limits the pressure
[b]. He makes a way of escape.

Christians have a habit of reclaiming their problems once delivered to the power of Jesus Christ.

 

IV. Methods of Temptation: (Prov. 30:9)

[1]. Poverty
[2]. Prosperity
[3]. Worldly glory
[4]. Discouragement

 

V. Types of Temptation:

Unbelief - Jews in the wilderness
Pride - Nebuchadnezzar (if you can't be thankful for someone getting saved in a more "liberal church" something is wrong).
Pleasure - Demas
Money - Judas
Power - Pilate
False humility - Pharisees (hyper critical)
Possessions - Achan
Society - Lot
Sex - David
False worship - Idolatry of any kind etc.

 

VI. Yielding To Temptation results In Sin: (1 Tim. 6:9)

If Resisted -

The Lord is glorified.
The saint is strengthened
Maturity in the Lord
Character

 

VII. Ways To Get Victory Over Temptation:

[1]. The faithfulness of God can always be counted upon.
[2]. The Word of God - Scriptural Knowledge.
[3]. Intercession of Christ (Lk. 22:31-32).
[4]. Prayer (Matt. 26:41).
[5]. By Fleeing (2 Tim. 2:22).
[6]. By Resisting (Jas. 4:7; Heb. 2:18; 4:15).
[7]. By taking the way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13).