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Lead Us Not Into Temptation
Sermon by Ryan McClureEnduring temptation is a critical aspect of the trials and tests we face as we walk with God. Trials often begin once God has called us, and they are not in short supply as we continue on this path. These tests, synonymous with temptations in their definitions, are meant to refine our character and prove our faithfulness. God tests us to know our hearts, to see if we will listen and obey His instructions, much like a teacher tests students after providing knowledge. He does not tempt us with sin, for He is perfect and cannot sin. Instead, God allows trials for our benefit, that we might grow in the image of our Savior, with the desired outcome that we pass and succeed. In contrast, temptation that leads to sin originates from our own fleshly desires, and Satan, the tempter, is ever ready to fuel these desires to cause us to fail. When God permits, Satan moves in to entice us away from God, aiming to lead us into sin and ultimately death, as seen in various accounts like those of Job and Jesus Christ. While God's tests are given in love to help us grow, Satan's temptations are designed to destroy us, exploiting our weaknesses to draw us into rebellion against our Creator. God provides a way out of temptation, offering escape if we seek Him and desire to avoid sin. Every trial and temptation presents a choice between life and death, and we must consciously choose to obey God's commands over giving in to forbidden desires. Understanding this distinction is vital: God's ultimate goal is our success and inclusion in His spiritual Family, while Satan seeks our failure and downfall. As we endure temptation, we must watch and pray, recognizing that the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak, and rely on God's strength to overcome.
How Does Temptation Relate to Sin?
'Ready Answer' by Martin G. CollinsWe have been called to a life of avoiding, enduring and overcoming temptation. Here is the process of temptation, sin and their products, and destruction.
Days of Trials
Sermonette by James BeaubelleThe conversion process resembles a battle, requiring that we must put on armor, expecting continuous skirmishes to enter God's Kingdom victoriously.
A Look at Christian Suffering (Part Three)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIt offends our sense of justice to see the wicked prospering while the righteous suffer. We may need to adjust our expectations for leading an easy life.
Firstfruits and the Master Potter
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaThe Potter and Clay analogy provides instructions for understanding character-building tests and trials in the life-long sanctification process.
Trials: Much Needed Experiences
Sermon by John O. ReidGod uses trials to test our hearts, but He never places a trial before us to tempt us. God uses trials we bring on ourselves to draw us closer to Him.
The Continuous Testing of Our Faith
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe constant tests to which God submits His people enable them to build character by responding in faith. God perfected Abraham's faith through difficult trials.
Running God's Marathon With Christ
Sermon by Mark SchindlerChrist endured many more than three temptations; rather, He was tested continuously, and perhaps the intensity increased as He neared the end of His life.
Facing Times of Stress: Grieved by Various Trials
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsFaith from God will be required to endure and profit from trials, bringing about character and genuineness of faith, as well as patience and trust in God.
Who Will Be Kept from the Hour of Trial?
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeGod promises some Christians that He will keep them from the Tribulation, the 'hour of trial.' Here are the characteristics of those whom God will protect.
If You Do These Things, You Shall Never Fall
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod has not set up us for failure, but if we can't control our inordinate pride, we could destroy our own chances of fulfilling God's purpose for us.
God's Good Work in Us
Sermon by John O. ReidDespite the privileged position of our calling, God does not cut us any slack in terms of trials and tests to perfect us. We must accept God's sovereignty.
Hebrews (Part Fourteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughLike Jesus and other heroes of faith, we need to look beyond the present to the long term effects of the trials and tests we go though, seeing their value.
James and Unleavened Bread (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe book of James applies to us after the sanctification process has begun. The most effective way of eliminating sin is to do righteousness.