Topical Bible: Temptation: Blessedness of Those Who Meet and Overcome

◄ Temptation: Blessedness of Those Who Meet and Overcome ►

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Temptation is a common experience in the Christian life, often seen as a test of faith and character. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on the nature of temptation and the blessedness of those who successfully overcome it.

Nature of Temptation

Temptation is described in Scripture as an enticement to sin, often appealing to human desires and weaknesses. James 1:14-15 explains, "But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." This passage highlights the progression from temptation to sin and ultimately to spiritual death, emphasizing the importance of resisting temptation at its onset.

Jesus as the Model Overcomer

The ultimate example of overcoming temptation is found in Jesus Christ. In the wilderness, Jesus faced direct temptations from Satan, as recorded in Matthew 4:1-11. Despite the devil's attempts to exploit physical hunger, pride, and power, Jesus remained steadfast, countering each temptation with Scripture. His victory over temptation serves as a model for believers, demonstrating reliance on God's Word and the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Role of Faith and Perseverance

The Bible teaches that faith and perseverance are crucial in overcoming temptation. James 1:12 states, "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him." This verse underscores the blessedness of enduring temptation, promising eternal rewards for those who remain faithful.

Divine Assistance and the Way of Escape

God's faithfulness is a key assurance for believers facing temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13 offers comfort: "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. But when you are tempted, He will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it." This promise assures believers that God provides the strength and means to overcome any temptation.

The Armor of God

Ephesians 6:10-18 describes the spiritual armor available to believers, equipping them to withstand the schemes of the devil. The armor includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. By putting on this armor, Christians are empowered to resist temptation and stand firm in their faith.

The Blessedness of Overcoming

Overcoming temptation is not only a personal victory but also a source of spiritual growth and maturity. Romans 5:3-4 states, "Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." This process of growth through trials and temptations leads to a deeper hope and trust in God.

The Promise of Eternal Reward

The Scriptures affirm that those who overcome temptation will be rewarded in eternity. Revelation 2:10 encourages believers, "Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison to test you, and you will suffer tribulation for ten days. Be faithful even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life." This promise of the "crown of life" serves as a powerful motivation for believers to remain steadfast in the face of temptation.

In summary, the Bible presents temptation as a challenge that, when met with faith and reliance on God, leads to spiritual growth and eternal reward. The blessedness of overcoming temptation is a recurring theme, offering hope and encouragement to believers striving to live a life pleasing to God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

James 1:2-4,12
My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Curiosity a Temptation to Sin.
... 7]; and that He in every temptation will make a ... who surrender themselves soul and
body, those who honestly ... They never will know the blessedness which He has to ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol viii/sermon v curiosity a temptation.htm

Because of his Importunity
... in strength of will and purpose, over those of the ... prayer, that the true blessing
and blessedness of the ... of this world, with all his temptation, was overcome. ...
/.../murray/the ministry of intercession/chapter iv because of his.htm

Discouragement
... "Lie down and be discouraged" is always our temptation. ... her children for the purpose
of helping them correct those faults; and ... Where is the blessedness I knew. ...
/.../smith/the god of all comfort/chapter 13 discouragement.htm

'Is it I?'
... because of slumbering sins, and those who dread ... tempted, and yield to the temptation,
and deny ... experience, no heights of religious blessedness, no attainments ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclaren/expositions of holy scripture b/is it i.htm

O Thou that Bringest Good Tidings
... For their own blessedness? ... all, and especially among young men, there is the temptation
just to ... that I suggested, that this message comes to all those for whom ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture h/o thou that bringest good.htm

Jesus as a Friend.
... and in gentle and lowly life all the blessedness of the ... we shall not be tempted,
but that no temptation but such ... But he did more than feel with those who were ...
/.../miller/personal friendships of jesus/chapter xv jesus as a.htm

Examples of the Various Styles Drawn from Scripture.
... gold and jewels, he works feats of valor with those arms in ... And my temptation which
was in my flesh ye despised not ... Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? ...
/.../on christian doctrine in four books /chapter 20 examples of the various.htm

A Personal Experience.
... We remembered in pity those who had endeavored to ... went wrong as previously, when
the temptation came stronger ... There is a blessedness in taking our every want ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /a personal experience.htm

The Preacher as an Apostle.
... misery and endeavouring to communicate to them the secret of blessedness. ... on the
brink of the great temptation of his ... at home to the visits of those who come ...
/.../stalker/the preacher and his models/lecture viii the preacher as.htm

Christ is All
... Christ shall plead for me before the temptation comes. ... the way to spell heaven is
with those five letters ... the next place, the safety and the blessedness of the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/christ is all.htm