The Scriptures have much to say about temptation. The Bible is filled with examples and types of it, as well as warnings against the dangers and results of it. It opens with an example of temptation (Gen. 3:6), and closes with a warning against it. (Rev. 22: 18-19) Yielding to temptation can cost one his soul; resisting it can save one’s soul. Satan lures us into temptation; Christ leads us out of it. Let us note some facts about this important subject.
What Temptation Is
Our English word “tempt” is from the Greek, “peirazo”, which is used in two general senses. (1) To try, test, or prove one’s faith or devotion by persecution or hardship. (cf. Hebrews 2:18, 4:15;11:37) (2) To entice to sin, or to be drawn into sin by one’s own lustful passions. (cf. James 1:14, 15; Gal. 6:1) Temptation itself is not sinful, but it can lead to sin in the heart and life if not controlled. Because of our mortal nature we are tempted to sin, either in thought or in action. Allowing the temptation to continue brings about the sin. Removing the temptation avoids the sin. Jesus did not condemn the admiration of beauty as a man looks at a woman. However, he did say that looking at a woman “to lust after her” is adultery in the heart. Being tempted to steal, lie, drink, swear, etc. is not sinful, but it can lead to sin if continued. James 1:14,15 describes uncontrolled temptation. First, one is “drawn away by his lust and enticed”. Second, “lust is conceived, which brings forth sin”. This sin, no doubt, is that of action, rather than thought. Sin in the heart begins when one allows himself to be “drawn away by his lust and enticed”.
Temptation Comes To All
Temptation is as common as the human race. The holy men and women of God in biblical history were sinners, and it was temptation that led them to sin. Abraham would not have lied about Sara to Pharaoh and Abimilech had he not been tempted. Gen. 12:20 20;20:2) David was drawn away of his own lust for Bathsheba, committing sin in the heart then physical adultery, then murder and numerous other sins (II Sam.11), and all because he was first tempted.
Even Jesus encountered temptation, but he never yielded to its enticement. The Scriptures tell us that he was tempted in all points like as we are, yet did not sin. (Heb. 2:18, 4:15) Of course, this does not mean that he faced every conceivable temptation that mortal man faces, but in being tempted by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (Matt. 4:1-11), he was tempted in all points as we are. There is no other way to be tempted than by these three avenues. (cf. I John 2:15-17) Since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23), all have been tempted.
(to be continued next week)
-Richard