To Remember: Resist temptation with the Word
of God.
Vocabulary
temptation: enticement to do wrong -
James 1:14
Lesson
Discuss: What is temptation? What temptations do you face? Which are
the most difficult?
Temptation is not a sin - giving into it is. James 1:12
Enduring Temptation
makes us stronger
has its reward
Temptation doesn't come from God - it comes from Satan (through the
flesh) James 1:13
How do we resist temptation?
Pray
We must be awake and alert. Luke 22:46
Players on sports teams keep their eye on the ball. They are ready, prepared, and watching
everything around them: the enemy, their team, the goal.
Study
Jesus resisted Satan through the Word of God. Matt 4
Temptation often comes as a lie in disguise. The truth reveals lies.
Satan misused scripture to tempt Jesus. Jesus knew all the truth as revealed the lie.
Activity: Prepare a flat cardboard piece labeled the Word of Truth.
Ball up some socks. Have one student try to cross the room while the others throw the
socks at him/her. Then give the student the cardboard to use as a shield. Have each
student try. Then discuss how much easier it is to navigate temptation with the Word of
God on our side. But we won't have it to use unless we study it.
Can we always resist temptation?
Yes 1Cor.10:13
God always provides the opportunity and tools necessary to do what is
right.
Jesus can deliver us from temptation 2 Pet. 2:9
You aren't alone Heb 2:18
Jesus endured everything we do Heb. 4:15
Resist Satan and he will flee from you James 4:7
Activity: Pass out cards that say "Away from me, Satan!"
Have students practice saying this as a group. Discuss situations when this thought is
appropriate. Have students identify now how they will handle the temptations they
mentioned at the beginning of the class. What other sayings or strategies could they use?
(Be very specific).
Activity: the hardboiled heart. Have one hard-boiled egg
and one uncooked egg. Have students try to spin both of them. It is much easier to spin
the hard-boiled egg. Discuss how Satan can spin a hard-boiled (hardened) heart, but can't
spin a softer heart.
