Temptation and its conquest

Temptation and its conquest

Temptation defined
Temptation is a state experienced when a person thinks thoughts, considers intentions or
desires things which are contrary to the thoughts, intents and desires of Almighty God. When
those thoughts are fulfilled through action, those intentions translated into achievements and
those desires satisfied by accomplishment, then sin is committed. Sin unrepented of by the
sinner and not forgiven by the Father leads to death. Temptation is a link in the chain of
circumstances that leads to death (Jas. 1:14,15).

Temptation and life
Temptation is also a link in the chain of circumstances that can lead to life. Temptation is
necessary. It is the means whereby faith is tested (Jas. 1:2,3,12).

Temptation is universal
It is no respecter of persons. No one escapes its influence. It is not confined by time or place,
nor restricted by age, social standing, intellect, race, gender or creed (Gen. 3:6; 2 Sam. 11:2-5; Mt. 4:1-11; Rom. 3:10,12; 1 Cor. 10:13; Heb. 4:15).

Temptation—its origin
Temptation can arise because of our situation. The people we are with, the place we are in, and
the time may all have an influence (Gen. 3; Josh. 7; Mt. 19:3; 26:14-16; Lk. 20:21-26).
Temptation may arise because of our unique emotional constitution. Not everyone exposed to
the same situation will be affected in the same way (1 Cor. 8:7-13).

Temptation can be overcome
We have been promised that we shall have the strength for all eventualities (1 Cor. 10:13).

Temptation—its conquest
Overcoming temptation involves appreciating that danger exists, recognising the cause, and
taking appropriate action. Sometimes that action involves avoidance, sometimes confrontation
(Prov. 4:14,15; Mt. 5:29,30; Mk. 8:33; Jas. 4:7,8).
We must not place ourselves in situations where temptation will arise. We must remove
ourselves from circumstances where temptation has arisen (Ps. 1:1; Lk. 4:30).
We should seek the company of those who are wise and strong, and who will influence us for
good (Prov. 9:6; 13:20; 22:24).
We must starve our wayward emotions of food (Rom. 13:14; Eph. 4:22).
We must be quick and decisive when we are confronted with temptation, and positive in our
reaction against it (Prov. 1:10-15; Mt. 16:23; Heb. 12:1,2).
We must be awake to and aware of the insidious nature of temptation (Mt. 26:41; Lk. 12:15;
1 Cor. 10:12; 1 Pet. 5:8).
Inadequate on our own to conquer every temptation, we must seek God’s help in prayer and
through His Word. We have a pattern of perfection. We need to emulate and adopt that model
(Mt. 6:13; 26:41; Heb. 12:1,2; 2 Pet. 2:9).
Sin breeds sin. Overcoming one temptation strengthens us to overcome the next (Jas. 1:2-4).

This article is produced by The Testimony Magazine, 26 Tiercel Avenue, Norwich NR7 8JN, to encourage personal and ecclesial study of Bible principles.