LUKE 4:1-13 HOW TO HANDLE TEMPTATIONS

What is temptation?  Christ identified Satan as the source of all temptations (James 1:13; 17; Eph. 6:12; Col. 1:13).  Temptation is proposing any act which is inconsistent with the plans and purposes of God for our life (Matt. 16:23).  Temptation may prompt an action which has the appearance of godliness and righteousness, and may even seem to have a biblical basis (2 Cor. 11:13-15).  Temptation appeals to man to satisfy a need or a desire, but in a way that is displeasing to God (1 John 2:15-17).

What is temptation?  Temptation is an appeal to act independently of God and to pursue self-interest above God’s will.  Temptation often seeks to motivate disobedience by creating a doubt about God’s goodness or power, thus prompting one to act in his own behalf.  Temptation is an enticement to pursue God’s will and calling, but by motives or means which are inconsistent with that calling.  Temptation proposes a short-cut, an easier way to reach our goals.

What is temptation?  Temptation thrives on falsehood, deception, and evasion.  Temptation is very frequently a solicitation to act immediately, hastily, without prayer, counsel, or deliberation.  Temptation usually appeals to our lower motives and instincts.  Temptation usually appeals to the person who feels the need to prove himself.

Three different perspectives  God’s perspective.  Man’s perspective.  Satan’s perspective.

Some tests that we can use Who or what is the source of the offer? What are the long-term consequences of the proposed action? To what motive or desire does the offer appeal? (Fleshly or spiritual) To what motive or desire does the offer appeal? (Fleshly or spiritual) How does the proposed action square with God’s Word? How does the proposal square with my goals and calling in life?

Some tests that we can use How will the proposal impact my walk with God? What will it cost? Am I being hurried to act quickly, rather than to think the matter through carefully? How much scrutiny and investigation is encouraged and/or allowed? Am I considering this proposition because I feel that I need to prove something to someone?

Several principles It is not a sin to be tempted. No temptation is beyond our ability to resist (1 Cor. 10:13; 2 Pet. 1:3). No temptation is permanently overcome, never again to occur or to appeal to us (Luke 4:13; Matt. 16:23). No temptation is unique to us, for which there is not a Biblical precedent or principle (1 Cor. 10:13). The Biblical antithesis and antidote to temptation is exhortation (Heb. 10:23-25; Rom. 15:14; 1 Thes. 5:11, 14). Jesus dealt with temptation positively, rather than negatively.

To be victorious begins with our being prepared.