1. Run the Race with Endurance “Lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares…” Overcoming Sin and Temptation

2. Definition of Terms  Sin: transgression of law – 1 John 3:4 – iniquity, lawlessness, disobedience. Since God’s law governs our thoughts, words and deeds, we can sin in each area. Since God’s law governs our thoughts, words and deeds, we can sin in each area. Since God’s law commands and forbids, we can sin by doing or by failing to do. Since God’s law commands and forbids, we can sin by doing or by failing to do.

3. Definition of Terms  Sin: transgression of law – 1 John 3:4 – iniquity, lawlessness, disobedience.  Temptation: enticement, allurement – James 1:14 – temptation … Is not, really, in the object of one’s desire … Is not, really, in the object of one’s desire … Is really in our heart of desire! Is really in our heart of desire!

4. Lot’s of things to help… Pray more. Study more. Worship more. Be with saints more. Let’s look at two sections of scripture for spiritual advice.

5. We Must Envision Success … realistically  God’s children do not live in sin 1 John 3:1-9 1 John 3:1-9  God’s children cannot claim sinlessness 1 John 1:8-10 1 John 1:8-10 But even this truth is revealed … “that you may not sin” 2:1-6 But even this truth is revealed … “that you may not sin” 2:1-6 1 John

6. We Must Not love the world or things of the world 1 John 2:15-17 Here is instruction to overcome temptation: Possess no affection for sin! Choose the Father & reject the world! Realize the temporary nature of the world!

7. Overcome temptation by: 1. Visualizing the promised reward & value the blessing. (12) 2. Anticipating the need for endurance. (12) 3. Never doubting God. (13) 4. Accepting full responsibility. (14) James 1

8. Overcome temptation by: 5. Remembering where this is going. (15) 6. Knowing the only source of true goodness and happiness. (16-17) 7. Learning to accept instruction and criticism. (19-20) 8. Seeing what you have become! (18) James 1

9. W herefore putting away all filthiness and overflowing of wickedness, receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. B ut be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deluding your own selves. James 1:21-22