1. The Christian and Sin What is Temptation?

2. Πειρασμός, (peirasmos) To entice or attempt to make one do something wrong. Also, to test or put to trial James 1:2, 1 Peter 1:6 First introduced when Jesus was tempted

3. What is Temptation? Three avenues of temptation 1 John 2:15-17, lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life Eve and Adam were tempted Genesis 3:16 Jesus was tempted Luke 4:1-13

4. Understanding Temptation? Fully understanding temptation is a challenge, but we must seek to do so James 1:12-18 Blessed is the man who endures temptation – he overcomes. NOTE: temptation is not sin! Hebrews 4:15

5. Understanding Temptation? James 1:12-18 When he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life – Salvation Romans 2:7, Rev. 3:5, etc. Let no one say, ‘I am tempted by God’ – God is not the promoter of sin cf. 1 Corinthians 10:13

6. Understanding Temptation? James 1:12-18 Each one is tempted when – temptation is universal 2 Cor. 2:11 He is drawn away – dragged away by Satan Gen. 3:1, 2 Cor. 11:3 – he is crafty

7. Understanding Temptation? James 1:12-18 By his own desires – lusts – each person has a different set of challenges, 1 Cor. 9:24-27 And enticed – a lure (bait) – this is the temptation! Cf. 1 Timothy 6:9-10

8. Understanding Temptation? James 1:12-18 When desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin – we think about something and prepare to give into it. Walk in sin Eph. 2:1-3 Leads to death – the wages of sin is death Romans 6:23, Luke 8:13

9. Dealing with Temptation Realize you do NOT have to sin - ever! Yes you will sin – Rom. 3:23 NO sin is ever forced upon you 1 Cor. 10:13, 2 Peter 2:9 cf. James 1:13; Heb. 2:18, 4:15, James 4:7

10. Dealing with Temptation Put on the armor of God Take steps to protect yourself against temptation – Ephesians 2:10-18

11. Dealing with Temptation Be alert! Be sober, vigilant 1 Peter 5:8-9, you can resist him

12. Dealing with Temptation “It is written” When Jesus was tempted, He always answered with scripture Matthew 4:4, 7, 10 We need to know how to appeal to scripture for answers when facing temptations

13. Dealing with Temptation Pray about it Matthew 6:13 Matthew 26:41, “watch and pray” 2 Peter 2:9, God knows how to deliver us

14. Dealing with Temptation Run!!!! Flee… 2 Timothy 2:22 flee youthful lusts 1 Corinthians 6:18 flee fornication 1 Corinthians 10:14 flee from idolatry

15. Temptation is very real Will you choose to avoid it or give in?