Temptation Sermon Outlines

Title: "Overcoming Temptation: Drawing Strength from God's Word"

Introduction:

I. Understanding Temptation

A. James 1:13-15 - "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death."

B. Define temptation as a common struggle faced by all individuals and clarify its distinction from trials.

C. Acknowledge the reality of temptation and its potential consequences.

II. Jesus' Example in Overcoming Temptation

A. Matthew 4:1-11 - "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil..."

B. Highlight Jesus' response to temptation, relying on the power of God's Word to resist the devil's schemes.

C. Emphasize that Jesus' victory over temptation provides a model for believers to follow.

III. The Power of God's Word

A. Psalm 119:11 - "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."

B. Hebrews 4:12 - "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."

C. Explain the importance of immersing ourselves in God's Word as a source of strength and guidance in times of temptation.

IV. Identifying Common Temptations

A. 1 John 2:16 - "For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world."

B. Discuss common areas of temptation, such as materialism, lust, pride, and selfishness.

C. Encourage self-awareness and vigilance against potential temptations.

V. Practical Steps to Overcome Temptation

A. 1 Corinthians 10:13 - "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

B. Share practical strategies to overcome temptation, such as prayer, seeking accountability, and avoiding compromising situations.

C. Emphasize the assurance of God's provision to help us resist temptation.

VI. Seeking God's Strength in Temptation

A. Psalm 34:17-18 - "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

B. James 4:7 - "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

C. Call the congregation to rely on God's strength and seek His presence in times of temptation.

Conclusion:

Recap the reality of temptation and its potential consequences.

Inspire the congregation to follow Jesus' example and draw strength from God's Word to overcome temptation.

Encourage the practice of memorizing and meditating on Scripture as a defense against temptation.

Offer a time of prayer for individuals struggling with specific temptations and seeking God's help.

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