Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
Relevant Faith: Defeating Our Destructive Desires, James 1:12-15
Pastor Ryan Heller
What are the 4 stages of temptation?
I. Desire
When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.
James 1:13-14 (NIV)
Exchange Desire with Self-Control
So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Galatians 5:16 (NIV)
II. Deception
But each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.
James 1:14 (NIV)
Replace Deception with Truth
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32 (NIV)
III. Disobedience
Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
James 1:15 (NIV)
Change Disobedience into Obedience
Those who obey his commands live in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.
1 John 3:24 (NIV)
The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
Galatians 6:8 (NIV)
IV. Death
Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
James 1:15 (NIV)
Turn From Death to Life
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
John 10:10 (NIV)
What Happens When We Overcome Temptation?
1. You will reap earthly benefits
2. You will reap heavenly rewards
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.
James 1:12 (NIV)