The Promise Through Temptation

[Full written sermon unavailable. Snippet from the sermon:]

To be human is to face temptation, and Jesus shows us that it is possible to overcome it.

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Why this should matter to you and me:

First, we have a Savior who understands our flaws, our weaknesses (even baked goods and ice cream), and failures. For we do not have a high priest who's unable to sympathize with our weaknesses; but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are, yet He was without sin.

Second, there's no temptation that we cannot overcome with God's help. That's the important part here— with God's help. For no temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful. He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. And when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out, so that you can stand up under it.

Third, for those who are wise enough, Jesus used Scripture to overcome temptation. The devil's playbook is always the same. John tells us in 1 John 2:16 (RSV): 'For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the pride of life, is not of the Father but is of the world.' Studying Scripture, memorizing it, helps us to overcome temptation. Does that mean work and some pre-work ahead of time? Yes, it does. But if we want to overcome it, then that's what's necessary. That's what Jesus did. Here's where you can grow to be like Jesus— by trusting God to meet your needs without misusing your gifts or trying to force God's hand. Or taking a shortcut.