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Understanding Temptation

August 12, 2018 Speaker: Michael Knight Series: Temptation

Topic: Christian Growth Passage: James 1:13–15

Every believer faces trials and temptations. How do we handle the difficulties that come into our lives? Do we blame God? Do we blame others? What is the purpose of a trial?

1. The Source of Temptation (James 1:13-14)
• Temptation is not from God. 
- God allows trials, but He doesn’t tempt us to sin. 
- Our natural tendency is to blame our sin on God or others. (Genesis 3:12)
- To blame God for temptation shows a lack of understanding of God’s purpose for the trial. The purpose of every trial is to grow you in your sanctification.
- It’s contrary to God’s character and actions to tempt us with evil. 
- However, God always provides a way of escape for every temptation. 

• Temptation comes from within. 
- Temptation is universal. 
- Temptation is constant. 
- Temptation comes from our sinful flesh. (James 1:14; Mark 7:21-23)

2. The Process of Temptation (James 1:14)
• Drawing or Luring
• Enticing or Baiting 
• The Choice:
- Resist and Flee (James 4:7; 1 Corinthians 6:18, 10:14)
- Yield 

The Bible gives us the hope of the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit to help us conquer temptation. Take advantage of His power to overcome. We do not have to remain in the bondage of sin. Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. (1 Corinthians 10:13; 1 John 4:4)