God Will Help You Resist Temptation
September 12, 2019
Commentary
Paul points out that the Corinthian church was guilty of the same sins that the Jews committed.
A. Five downward steps of temptation for the Israelites:
1. They lusted after evil things – (v. 6, Num. 11:4) They wanted the things back in Egypt.
2. They worshiped idols – (v. 7, Ex. 32:6) – The golden calf worshiped in the wilderness.
3. They committed immorality – (v. 8, Num. 25:1-9) – Baal worship and sexual immorality.
4. They tested God’s patience – (v. 9, Num. 21:6) – Israelites spoke against God and Moses.
5. They murmured – (v. 10, Num. 16:41-49) – Complained about Moses and Aaron.
B. Three conclusions about temptation in verse 13:
1. Temptation will come. It is not designed to make us fall but to make us stronger.
2. Temptation comes to everyone. Don’t feel that you have been singled out.
3. Temptation can be resisted. God will help you resist it.
C. Five ways God will help you resist temptation:
1. Recognize the people and situation that give you trouble.
2. Run from anything that you know is wrong.
3. Choose to do what is right.
4. Pray for God’s help.
5. Seek for friends who can help you.
In a culture filled with pressures, Paul gave encouragement about temptation (v. 13).
Application
God promises that He will not permit me to be swept away by some overpowering temptation. However, I must take advantage of God’s ways to resist temptation.
1 Corinthians 10:6– 13 (NET)
6 These things happened as examples for us, so that we will not crave evil things as they did. 7 So do not be idolaters, as some of them were. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.” 8 And let us not be immoral, as some of them were, and 23,000 died in a single day. 9 And let us not put Christ to the test, as some of them did, and were destroyed by snakes. 10 And do not complain, as some of them did, and were killed by the destroying angel. 11 These things happened to them as examples and were written for our instruction, on whom the ends of the ages have come. 12 So let the one who thinks he is standing be careful that he does not fall. 13 No trial has overtaken you that is not faced by others. And God is faithful: He will not let you be tried beyond what you are able to bear, but with the trial will also provide a way out so that you may be able to endure it.