Saturday, October 27, 2012

Topical Study, Resisting Temptation: Avoiding Temptation Part II

Now that we have looked at the Common Causes of Temptation we are going to take a closer look at how we can attempt to AVOID temptation.


The initial overview of this topical study can be found HERE.

Part I of the Common Sources of Temptation  can be found HERE. 

Part II of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE

Part III of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE

Part IV of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE.  

Part V of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE




Part I of Avoiding Temptation can be found HERE. 

You can hover your pointer over (most) any verse reference to read the corresponding verse(s).  (Scriptural cross-references are THE most important resource!)




Avoid the Wrong Type of Associations


Many of the same verses found under causes of temptation that dealt with wrong associations also apply for the subject of how to avoid temptation.  I will repeat them with a few extra thoughts thrown in.



Ex 23:31-33


  • Initial Observations -- God (as He has before and later in the Scriptures) is commanding His people not to make covenants with others to serve other gods and warning His people that this can and will happen if they are NOT careful!
  • Cross-references -- Ex 34:12 Ex 34:15 Dt 7:1-5 Ex 23:24 Ps 106:35 2Co 6:15 Nu 25:1-2 Dt 7:16 Jos 23:13 Jdg 2:3



Ps 119:115 


  • Initial Observations  --  Here the psalmist is telling the undesirable acquaintances to leave him!  So that he CAN observe God's commandments.  When we keep ourselves around those who sin and entice us to sin it makes it that much harder for us to focus on God.  Our attention cannot be THAT divided!!
  • Cross-references  --  Ps 6:8  Mt 4:10  Ps 26:5  Mt 7:23  1Co 15:33  Jos 24:15 


 
Pr 4:14-15


  • Initial Observations -- Fairly straight forward verses!  Here we see that it is best for us not to even ENTER the path of the wicked. The words "path" and "way" are often used metaphorically to describe one's personal journey or patterns. Especially the word "way". We should also take special note of the verses that directly precede this warning: Pr 4:11-13 God gives us the way to avoid the path of the evil! We are to pay heed to His instruction and not let it go! Jos 1:6-9
  • Cross-references: -- Ps 1:1 Pr 1:15 Pr 1:10 Pr 2:11-12 Pr 13:20 Ps 26:4-5 Pr 5:8 Eph 5:1


1Co 15:33


  • Initial Observations -- This is one of the most straight forward statements in Scripture regarding this subject. Paul makes it very clear: "bad company corrupts good morals." An absolutely stern and serious warning that we must watch the company we keep!
  • Cross-references -- Col 2:4 1Co 6:9 Mt 24:4 Mt 24:24 (even the elect are prone to being misled!) Eph 5:6-7 1Co 5:6 Pr 13:20 2Ti 2:16-18 2Pe 2:2 Rev 2:2 2Th 3:6 1Co 5:9-11 (this is interesting! Maybe worth exploring?)
  • Commentaries -- The Wycliffe Bible Commentary: Remind us that in context, Paul was specifically discussing the effects of WRONG DOCTRINE or those who preach wrong doctrine, on our own faith!


2Co 6:14-16


  • Initial Observations -- Paul is again, very clear here. I think it is important to look at the words "bound together". Elsewhere, Paul reminds us that we will have some associations with unbelievers: 1Co 5:9-11 (his warning in these verses is with regards to so-called "brothers in the faith" who are on the immoral path.) So what does the term "bound together" mean?
  • Terms -- "bound together"= to be unequally yoked. (coupled together) So it means unequally bound together! Unequal because of the difference in belief? This is interesting!! Definitely deserves some more attention!! Another term to look at is "fellowship". Which means=sharing or participation!
  • Cross-references -- Dt 22:10 ?? 1Co 5:9 1Jn 1:6 Dt 7:2-3 Ps 139:21-22 Pr 29:27 1Co 10:21 Mt 11:29-30
  • Commentaries -- The Believer's Bible Commentary: Tells us that Paul is referring to Dt 22:10 The Ox is considered a clean animal and the donkey unclean. They also had different gaits and would not work well together. This commentary also tells us that Paul is not only referring to marriage but also business or any of our relationships. How encompassing is Paul's point?? This is an important verse that needs a study of its own!! Matthew Henry: Seems a little less conservative in his view BUT at the same time he takes Paul's words VERY seriously! Henry uses the word mingle quite often in his commentary on this verse. Life Application Study Bible: Does state that business relationships are being referred to in this verse but with the caveat that we should avoid those relationships that would cause us to "compromise our faith."


Thoughts and Application

  • God is very clear. We must not make covenants with those who would try to lead astray from God. Paul states we should not be "bound together".
  • However, what does that mean? I do know God has put some people in my life who are not believers who are great friends of mine. And none of them have tried to lead me away from God (to the best of my knowledge). I understand the necessity of mutual belief in the marriage covenant!  But what about friendship with non-believers? I still feel that this is somewhat unclear (or it is clear and I am just not seeing it!??)
  • I do see that we can not let ourselves be led astray by peer pressure or wrong associations. I do feel that this specific subject (especially 2Co 6:14-16 ) needs a closer look!
  • It is also important to remember that in the end WE cause OURSELVES to sin!  We need to avoid wrong associations but they are not to blame for the eventual sin...we ARE!

Bibliography


  • Baker, Warren and Eugene Carpenter. The Complete Word Study Dictionary – Old Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 2003. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Baker, Warren, ed. – The Complete Word Study Old Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG, 1994. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Baker, Warren, ed. – The Complete Word Study Old Testament Chattanooga, TN: AMG, 1994. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Brand, Chad, Charles Draper, Archie England, ed. Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers, 2003. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Fleming, Don. Concise Bible Commentary. Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 1994. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • God's Word: Today's Bible Translation That Means What It Says Holiday, FL: Green Key Books, n.d.. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • God's Word Application Index. Holiday, FL: Green Key Books, n.d.. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Hanke, Howard A. The Thompson Chain Reference Bible Companion. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • – Holman Christian Standard Bible Nashville: Holman Bible, 1999. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • – Holman Christian Standard Bible Nashville: Holman Bible, 1999. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Keener, Craig S. The IVP Bible Background Commentary – New Testament. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Holy Bible, New American Standard. La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation, 1995. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Holy Bible, New American Standard La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation, 1995. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • The Holy Bible: New King James Version Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1988. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Pfeiffer, Charles F. and Everett F. Harrison, ed. The Wycliffe Bible Commentary. Chicago: Moody Bible Institute, 1990. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Strong, James. Strong's Concordance. Austin, TX: WORDsearch Corp., 2007. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Strong, James. Strong's Talking Greek & Hebrew Dictionary. Austin, TX: WORDsearch Corp., 2007. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Thompson, Frank Charles. Thompson Chain Reference Bible. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Thompson, Frank Charles. Thompson Chain Reference Bible. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Thompson, Frank Charles. Thompson Chain Reference Bible. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Torrey, R. A. The New Topical Textbook. New York: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1897. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Vine, William E. Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old Testament and New Testament Words. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1940. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Walton, John H., Victor H. Matthews, Mark W. Chavalas. The IVP Bible Background Commentary – Old Testament. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2000. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Zodhiates, Spiros, ed. – The Complete Word Study New Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG, 1991. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Zodhiates, Spiros. The Complete Word Study Dictionary – New Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 1993. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Zodhiates, Spiros, ed. – The Complete Word Study New Testament Chattanooga, TN: AMG, 1991. WORDsearch CROSS e-book. 
  • MacDonald, William, Believer's Bible Commentary.  Nashville, TN:  Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1995.
  • Life Application Study Bible. Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.
  • Henry, Matthew.  Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible.   Public Domain.

 
 

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Topical Study, Resisting Temptation: Avoiding Temptation Part I

Now that we have looked at the Common Causes of Temptation we are going to take a closer look at how we can attempt to AVOID temptation.


The initial overview of this topical study can be found HERE.

Part I of the Common Sources of Temptation  can be found HERE. 

Part II of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE

Part III of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE

Part IV of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE.  



Part V of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE


You can hover your pointer over (most) any verse reference to read the corresponding verse(s).  (Scriptural cross-references are THE most important resource!)


AVOIDING TEMPTATION




 
Initial thoughts on the avoidance of temptation


  • Now!  We won't always be able to avoid temptation unless we never go out of the house, never talk to another human being and never open our eyes! 
  • BUT!  Avoidance SHOULD be our first line of defence.  On initial thoughts I would think of avoidance as trying to steer away from obvious points of temptation:  Certain people, situations etc. etc.  And those things that we KNOW tempt us.  Our own thorns in our side so to speak.



Be on guard so that we can are not caught unawares!

Gen 2:16-17 


  • Initial Observations  -- Sometimes God will make it as easy possible for us to avoid temptation. (in theory anyway, our human weaknesses still get in the way!)  In Gen 2:16-17 God clearly lets Adam and Eve know that to eat of the tree is a bad thing!  Given all that He has given them and shown them, you would think it would make sense for them to obey His command.  (...NOTE TO SELF!!...)  And yet human curiosity and desires get the best of both Adam and Eve.  In theory, this was an easy sin to avoid.  Just don't do what God had told them not to do!  (...AGAIN, NOTE TO SELF...)   If we just obey God's commands we will avoid a GREAT DEAL of temptation!!  Ps 119:5-6  and  Ps 119:9  (I really like the way the God's Word Translation reads in these two sections of Scripture)
  • Cross-references --  Gen 3:2-3  (notice that Eve has misconstrued God's command.  Just a bit but it is a caution to all of us to make sure that we understand and know God's commands and His Word the absolute best that we are able!  Using God's Word as a weapon against temptation is going to come into play when we discuss how to fight temptation.  Here it is enough to know that Adam and Even should have just avoided this temptation.  They knew it was wrong!)  Dt 30:19-20 Ro 6:23  James 1:15  Eze 3:18-20 
  • The AMG Concise Bible Commentary:  Reminds us that metaphorically the tree presented Adam (and us) the choice to to submit to God or try to be independent of Him.  Growth in devotion to God involves self-denial, while maturity comes through choosing good and refusing evil.  The AMG Concise Bible Commentary further states that each victory over temptation would have helped Adam grow from a state of childlike innocence into one of adult maturity and that Adam's fellowship with God would have deepened and his understanding of God's purposes would have also increased.  (I think this is wise advice!  And true for all of us.  Very true!)
  • It is amazing how MUCH we can learn about the causes of sin and how to avoid and fight sin from Adam and Eve's failure to do so!  God is giving us all the information we need.  We just need to look for it and be open and receptive to it and pay heed and apply it!  (...NOTE TO SELF!...)



Gen 4:7


  • Initial Observations --   Once again, God gives us very clear information:  "...sin is crouching at the door and its desire is for you, but you must master it." Gen 4:7  Not only does God tell us to be wary and ON GUARD, He even tells us that we must master sin!  And if He has taken the time to tell us that this is what we should do...well, then it MUST be possible!  That is great news!    When we look at God's statement in Gen 4:7 we see a truly loving Father!  He is not hiding anything from Cain (or us)  God gives Cain (us) very clear instruction.  (just as He had given Adam and Eve regarding what they could and could not eat in the garden!)
  • Sadly, Cain was not able to master sin. Gen 4:8    And thus we are also shown what can happen when we don't heed God's warnings and instructions about sin!
  • Cross-references  --  Job 11:14-15  Ro 6:12  Ro 6:16 



Dt 4:9


  • Initial Observations  --  Give Heed!!  Keep your soul diligently.  We are once again being given a stern yet wonderful warning to keep ourselves focused on the things we have seen so that  we do not forget them!  Reading a passage in the Bible once and then going on our merry way is not going to be enough!  We need to be in God's Word every day to truly combat sin and stay on the path God has made for us.  Psalm 1  Jos 1:5-9 
  • Cross-references -- Psalm 1   Jos 1:5-9  Dt 11:18-21  Dt 4:23  Dt 8:11  Pr 3:1  Pr 4:23  Lk 8:18 
  • It is interesting to see (which we will below) just how many times God warned the Israelites as He was giving them the Law!



Dt 4:23


  • Initial Observations  --  Once again we are warned to WATCH ourselves so that we don't forget the covenant of the Lord!  It is SO easy for us to "forget" all that God has done for us and all that He has commanded us!   When we are not diligent, we then forget,  and then we sin!
  • Cross-references  --  Dt 4:15  Jos 23:11  Lk 12:15  Lk 21:8  Heb 3:12   Dt 8:19  



Dt 12:30


  • Initial Observations  --  BEWARE!  There are SO many instances of God lovingly telling us to be on guard,. to beware!  Temptation is out there and sometimes it is sneaky!  If we aren't on guard for it we can easily get caught up in it before we are even aware of what has happened!



Mt 26:41


  • Initial Observations  --  Jesus gives us a very clear explanation of why should we be on guard.  The flesh is weak!!  And Jesus lovingly tells us how to say on guard:  "....keep watching and praying..."  It is amazing just how succinct and clear all of these verses are that deal with being on guard.
  • Cross-references  --  Mk 14:38  Lk 21:36  Lk 22:40  Lk 22:46  1Co 16:13  Eph 6:18  1Pe 5:8  2Pe 2:9  (we should pray because God knows how to rescue us from temptation!)  Gal 5:16-17  Ps 39:1  Col 4:2  2Pe 3:17  
  • Commentaries  --  Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary:    Henry reminds us that even in His darkest hour, with His friends unable to console Him because they were too tired, Jesus STILL shows compassion and gives them a warning!  A compassionate warning!  He is STILL teaching them about the kingdom of God even now when He is about to face His greatest trial on earth.  Amazing!  God is amazing!


Lk 21:34-36 


  • Initial Observations  --  Jesus has just told a parable regarding the kingdom of God and what seems like an obvious reference to the end days or His second coming!  Lk 21:29-33      And then He follows with Lk 21:34-36  --  A warning to be on guard so that our hearts will not weighed down by worries of life or drunkenness.  Not necessarily a warning to be on guard for temptation but yet it is!  We want to be ready and clean (as we are able to be) when Jesus comes back!
  • Cross-references  --  Ro 13:13  1Th 5:6-7  1Pe 4:7  Lk 12:40  Mt 24:42-44  1Th 5:2  Mt 24:39-50  Mt 13:35-37  Ecc 9:12  Mt 26:41 



Ac 20:28-31 


  • Initial Observations  --  This is part of Paul's speech before the elders of Ephesus.  He states clearly that once he has left them "savage wolves" will come in (and some even on the inside) to do as much as they can to draw the people away from the church of God!  Paul tells them (and us) to be on guard for themselves and the entire flock! (thus intimating that we are responsible to help others avoid temptation when and if possible!)   Be alert!  he tells them.  The Bible cannot be any clearer on this issue.  Temptations and tempters abound!  We (I!) cannot let our guard down for an instant.  Everyday we must put on the armor of God:  Eph 6:10-18 
  • Cross-references  --  1Pe 2:5  Eph 1:7  Rev 5:9  Jn 21:15-17  Lk 21:34  1Co 9:26-27  1Ti 4:16  Heb 12:15  Jer 3:15  Mic 5:4  Mt 10:16  !!  Jn 20:12  !!


1Co 16:13


  • Initial Observations  --  Paul tells us to be on alert AND to stand firm in the faith!  Being on alert is something I know that I need to work on!!
  • Cross-references  --  Mt 24:42 Gal 5:1  Php 4:1  1Th 3:8  (we will be more alert if we are standing firm in the faih AND if we are standing firm in the faith it will be easier to be alert!!)  2Th 2:15  Ps 21:24  Eph 6:10  Col 1:11  Mk 14:37-38  Lk 12:35-40  1Pe 5:8  !!  1Co 9:25-27  Eph 6:13-17  Jos 1:6-9  Php 4:13 
  • Commentaries  --  The Wycliffe Bible Commentary:    Reminds us that every action in this verse is in the present tense, meaning that they should be practiced continually!!


Eph 4:26-27  


  • Initial Observations  -  Once again a clear warning to be aware and to not give the devil an opportunity!  In these verses Paul is speaking of anger (and the sins that would lead to!)  But the overall aesthetic is the same:  The devil is waiting for an opportunity to tempt us when we have our guard down!  So we must put on the full armor of God!  Eph 6:10-17  Being human we will be off our game sometimes but if we have on God's armor then we are fine, because He is never off of His game!!
  • Cross-references  --  Ps 4:4  Ps 37:8  James 1:19-20  Eph 4:31-32  Nu 20:10-13  Pr 14:29  Pr 19:11  Pr 25:23  Mt 5:22  James 4:7 



Heb 2:1


  • Initial Observations  --  THIS is a different kind of warning!  It is a warning to closely guard all that we have been shown and all that we have learned regarding Jesus Christ!  Besides being on guard for various ways we might be tempted we must also pay CLOSE attention to the Word of God and what He has shown to us and made known to us!!  It can easily slip from our memory!  We must guard it and meditate on it as it is the very key to walking in faith:  Ps 1  Jos 1:5-8  AND God's Word is one very important part of the full armor of God as shown to us in Eph 6:17 
  • Cross-references  --  Heb 12:25  Dt 4:9  Ps 119:9  Pr 2:1-6  Lk 8:15  2Pe 3:1 



1Jn 5:21


  • Initial Observations  --  Once again, a simple but stern warning to guard ourselves!  This time we are warned to guard ourselves against idols.  Notice that John refers to his readers (and us) as little children.  I do not think this is patronizing!  It is instead a reminder of how much we (like children) need warnings, and protection from sin. 
  • Cross-references  --  1Jn 2:1  1Co 10:7  1Co 10:14  1Th 1:9  Ex 20:3 
  • Commentaries  --  The Bible Background Commentary:    Reminds us that idols could be "anything that leads us astray from proper worship of the one true God!" 


2Ti 1:13-14 


  • Initial Observations  -- Once again Paul uses the word guard!  He tells Timothy to guard, through the Holy Spirit, that which has been entrusted to him!  This entire section of 2 Timothy is Paul telling Timothy to guard and keep afresh that which is now inside him through Jesus Christ!  Once we have accepted Jesus as our Savior and Lord and He has then placed the Holy Spirit inside of us we can't just go on spiritual vacation!!  What has been given to us is life and salvation!  We MUST guard it!  (BIG note to self!)
  • Cross-references --  1Ti 6:3-4  Titus 1:9  2Ti 3:14  1Ti 1:12-15  Pr 4:4-8  Pr 4:13 Php 1:27  Heb 3:6  Heb 4:14-15  Heb 10:23  1Ti 6:20  1Co 3:16  1Co 6:19 
  • Further thoughts  -  I think it is becoming obvious that a big part of being on guard against sin is not just being on the lookout for  temptations so that we can avoid them!  We must also guard and hold fast to the Word of God!  And to the Holy Spirit!  We must continually guard ourselves with armor of God!  Even if we are constantly on the lookout for temptations, but are not properly equipped to handle them, we still run a high risk of succumbing to those temptations!  (I know from experience!)
  • On further inspection it seems that Paul is being specific in that he is telling to Timothy to hold fast to the exact teaching that he, Timothy, received from Paul.  So that Timothy can pass on that teaching to help bring even more believers into the Church.   Very specific!!



1Pe 5:8 


  • Initial Observations  --  As we learned when looking at the various causes of temptation, the devil is always looking for ways to tempt us, and he knows what tempts us most!  So Simon Peter is telling us to be of sober spirit, and to be on guard!  If we become lax for even a second the devil WILL take his shot at us!!
  • sober  --   to be watchful and/or circumspect.  Combined with vigilant (or alert in the NASB) would indicate to be clear minded!! 
  • Cross-references  --  1Th 5:6-8  1Pe 1:13  1Pe 4:7  Mt 4:10  James 4:7   Titus 2:12  Lk 22:31  Eph 4:27 
  • The completion of this thought in 1Pe 5:9 will be looked at later in this study when we discuss resisting temptation but it is enough to know that Simon Peter tells us to be on guard AND to resist!! 


2Pe 3:17 


  • Initial Observations  --  Simon Peter has just finished warning his readers about false teachers and false doctrine!  Since he has forewarned us, it is easier for us to be on guard!  But we MUST still be on guard!  Otherwise temptation could cause us to fall away.
  • Cross-references  --  2Ti 4:15  Mt 24:24-25  Mt 13:24  Mt 7:15  2Co 11:3  2Pe 1:10-11  Eph 4:14 
  • Simon Peter again gives us the solution in the follow up verse:  2Pe 3:18  !!  We MUST continue to grow as Christians and in our understanding of God's commands and what He wants for us to be and do!

Thoughts and Application:


  • It is remarkable how just how clear God's Word is on this subject.  He lovingly tells us so many times in His Word that we NEED to be alert and to be on guard!  Sin and temptation are always there lurking around the corner just waiting for us to let our guard down. 
  • The application should be simple enough:  BE ON GUARD!!  Pray!  Meditate on God's Word! Ps 1  gives us a very clear example of how we can stay on the right path.  As does Ps 119:9-11   

Next time we will look at avoiding the wrong types of associations.

Bibliography


  • Baker, Warren and Eugene Carpenter. The Complete Word Study Dictionary – Old Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 2003. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Baker, Warren, ed. – The Complete Word Study Old Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG, 1994. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Brand, Chad, Charles Draper, Archie England, ed. Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers, 2003. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Fleming, Don. Concise Bible Commentary. Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 1994. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • God's Word: Today's Bible Translation That Means What It Says Holiday, FL: Green Key Books, n.d.. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • God's Word Application Index. Holiday, FL: Green Key Books, n.d.. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Hanke, Howard A. The Thompson Chain Reference Bible Companion. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • – Holman Christian Standard Bible Nashville: Holman Bible, 1999. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • – Holman Christian Standard Bible Nashville: Holman Bible, 1999. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Keener, Craig S. The IVP Bible Background Commentary – New Testament. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Holy Bible, New American Standard. La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation, 1995. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Holy Bible, New American Standard La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation, 1995. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • The Holy Bible: New King James Version Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1988. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Pfeiffer, Charles F. and Everett F. Harrison, ed. The Wycliffe Bible Commentary. Chicago: Moody Bible Institute, 1990. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Thompson, Frank Charles. Thompson Chain Reference Bible. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Thompson, Frank Charles. Thompson Chain Reference Bible. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Thompson, Frank Charles. Thompson Chain Reference Bible. Indianapolis, IN: B. B. Kirkbride Bible Co., 1997. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Torrey, R. A. The New Topical Textbook. New York: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1897. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Vine, William E. Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old Testament and New Testament Words. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1940. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Walton, John H., Victor H. Matthews, Mark W. Chavalas. The IVP Bible Background Commentary – Old Testament. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2000. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Zodhiates, Spiros, ed. – The Complete Word Study New Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG, 1991. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.
  • Zodhiates, Spiros. The Complete Word Study Dictionary – New Testament. Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 1993. WORDsearch CROSS e-book.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Topical Study, Resisting Temptation: Common Sources of Temptation Part V

We continue our look at the most common sources of temptation with a closer look at the TRUE cause of our sins:   our own covetous desires.

It is important to remember that if we are going to avoid temptation (which should be our first avenue of defense!), we need to know when and where to look for it.

The initial overview of this topical study can be found HERE.

Part I of the Common Sources of Temptation  can be found HERE. 

Part II of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE

Part III of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE


Part IV of the Common Sources of Temptation can be found HERE.  

I should state that by common sources of temptation, I am referring to a broader view, than the simple categories such as food, money, sex etc.   We are ALL tempted by different desires.  I am actually referring to the larger factors that can easily lead us astray and take our eyes off of God and redirect our eyes towards whatever might tempt us as individuals!

You can hover your pointer over (most) any verse reference to read the corresponding verse(s).  (Scriptural cross-references are THE most important resource!) 

Before we move on to our next segment which will deal with AVOIDING temptation, we will next take a closer look at Gen 3:1-6 where Adam and Eve sin because they were not aware of or ignored all four major sources of temptation we have listed in this study.
 
Genesis 3:1-6 (NASB) 1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Indeed, has God said, 'You shall not eat from any tree of the garden'?"
2 The woman said to the serpent, "From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat;
3 but from the fruit of the tree which is in the middle of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat from it or touch it, or you will die.'"
4 The serpent said to the woman, "You surely will not die!
5 "For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."
6 When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.


Basic Facts


Author: Moses

Date written: 1450-1410 B.C.

Purpose:  The book of origins.

Intended audience:  The people of Israel, intended to help them understand more fully the true living God who has just freed them from slavery in Egypt.

Important places:  The Garden of Eden

Main characters: Eve, the snake (the devil) and Adam

Type of Literature:  Historical record.  NLT Study Bible makes the case for Genesis being Instructional Literature as well as a historical record.  The NLT Study Bible further states that Genesis is a theological, historical and traditional based work used to instruct God's people and prepare them for blessing.

Main Themes:  In Gen 3:1-6 the main theme is man's fall!  God gave them one command and they failed to obey it!

Initial Observations

Things Emphasized

  • The serpent was crafty
  • That the serpent is twisting God's words and that Eve did not know God's words correctly.  (contrast with Jesus' use of the word to repel the devil in Mat 4:1-11  )
  • That Adam was indeed WITH eve at the time she was being tempted!  Gen 3:6 
  • In Gen 3:6 it is Eve who makes the decision  to sin!  The serpent didn't force her!  AND Adam also CHOSE to sin as he was with her the entire time but at the fruit anyway.
Things True to Life 
  • When we sin, we are the ones who have made the choice to sin!

Cause and Effect

  • The serpent's word play and Eve's lack of a firm grasp on God's command allow her own lusts to take over.  Her senses betray her into sinning.
  • Adam's silence is RESOUNDS throughout this section of Scripture!  Could he have prevented Eve from eating the fruit?  Who know?  But as we have seen good associations can be a strength to us!  God made Eve so that she and Adam could work and BE together.  Adam dropped the ball just as much as Eve did!
VERSE BY VERSE

GEN 3:1

Grammatical and other Considerations:

  • The serpent's word play is deliberately designed to get Eve off track.  The serpent knows full well that God said that they could eat of any tree of the garden except the tree of knowledge.  Gen 2:16-17  This is the type of subtlety that the tempter will use against us.  So now Eve is in a place of having to refute the serpent's words!
Verse Cross References:

  • Rev 12:9  Rev 20:2  --  These references along with John 8:44  assert that the serpent in Gen 3:1  is indeed the devil (or at the very least an agent of the devil).
  • Mt 4:3 Mt 4:6 Mt 4:9 Jn 8:44 --  In these four Scripture references we are reminded of how the devil WILL use Scripture to deceive us and fool us.  The devil WILL twist the Word of God.  Satan even tried to fool Jesus!  Fortunately for us, Jesus cannot be fooled or deceived regarding the Word of God, since He is God!  It is in our best interest to spend time in the Word.  To know it as best we can and to pray for guidance from it and from God when we are tempted.
  • Ecc 4:10  1Pe 3:7 --  These two verses highlight the power of our associations for good and bad!  Eve was created by God to be Adam's companion.  Adam should have treasured her to the point of being able to lovingly correct her.  OR:  Even better, Adam should have pulled her away from this situation before it went any further!  We know from Gen 3:6  that Adam was right there WITH her!  Sadly for Eve, himself and us, Adam was not there FOR her!  More on this as we study these verses.
  • James 1:14  2Co 11:3  -- Even though the devil is attempting to deceive Eve, and even though Adam proves to be of NO help, Eve (and ourselves when we sin!) is ultimately responsible for letting her lusts and desires win out over the direct Word of God.  Even though Adam did not help, Eve did not ask for help!
Summarizing:

  • In many ways the most important phrase in this verse is "Indeed, has God said, 'You shall not eat from any tree of the garden'?" The serpent's word play here is so subtle! He uses a question and throws ONE little wrinkle of doubt into the conversation by using the word ANY! So before Eve answers we have seen God's Word already distorted by the devil. And there is a reason that the devil approached Eve! She was not yet there when God issued the command regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and evil! Adam heard the command directly! So the devil approached the person who had heard the command second hand. This further highlights Adam's failure in this situation! ADAM should have spoken up right then and there, because he knew the command because God gave it to him directly! Gen 2:16-17 
  • This also highlights just how careful and diligent WE need to be!  Yes, God has given us His Word in the Scriptures to help us, and YES the Holy Spirit is in us guiding us BUT STILL, we, at this point in time are receiving the information one step removed:  That means we need to guard it and treasure it and nurture with all the vigor we can muster!!


GEN 3:2-3 

Grammatical and other Considerations:

  • Eve adds to God's original command from Gen 2:16-17 when she states that if they even touch the tree they will die.  God stated that "in the day that you eat from it you will surely die."
  • I have already mentioned Adam's silence but it is still very deafening!
  • It is interesting to note that Eve probably understands die differently than does God.  (it is unclear whether the serpent knew the full deal!)  Adam and Eve most likely understood that the death to follow eating from the tree would be immediate.  And it seems from the events in Gen 3:7 that is not exactly what God meant.
Verse Cross References:

  • Gen 2:16-17 -- It is interesting that this is the only cross-reference that seems relevant to this exact verse.  For in Gen 3:2-3, Eve is attempting to quote God's Word to debate the devil.  However she quotes it incorrectly.  She does not know it as well as she should.  She is trying to engage the devil in debate.  In Mat 4:1-11 Jesus doesn't so much engage the devil in debate as He just plainly rebukes him with correct usage of Scripture.

Summarizing:

  • When fighting temptation we need to remember the following:  1)  If we ARE going to use Scripture (in any way shape or form) we should know it to the best of our ability.  2)  We should also ask for help when we aren't sure!  AND (note to Adam!) 3)  we should provide help to those who need it if we are able.  All three of these of principles were thrown aside by both Adam and Eve in Gen 3:2-3  and as we shall see, the devil jumps on the openings left by Adam and Eve's failures.
Commentaries:

  • The Wycliffe Bible Commentary:    Points out that Eve did not have the advantage of knowing Jesus' words in Mt 4:10 or James admonition in James 4:7    She did her best but was easily deceived because she did not have the most important "weapon" she needed:  direct knowledge of the Word of God.  However, Adam did!  Adam had been told DIRECTLY by God in Gen 2:16-17 !!    Eve sinned.  There is no getting around that!  But Adam's sin was huge!  Not only did he eat from the tree, he also stood by and watched his companion, his companion lovingly created by God!, fall into sin.  We are to help each other when able!
  • The NLT Study Bible:  Points out that Eve also downplayed the privileges of eating.  In Gen 2:16-17 God had told Adam that they could eat "freely" from any tree but the one in question.  Eve said they "may" eat.  Small but important difference.  Eve also left out the word "surely" before the result of eating from the tree.  ("surely you will die."  Gen 2:17 )  Again, a small but important word.  We will see in the next verse how the devil throws the word surely back into the conversation! 

GEN 3:4-5 


Grammatical and other Considerations:

  • As mentioned above, the devil instantly uses the word Eve left out:  "surely."!!  Only he uses it to throw the seed of doubt into Eve's mind that SURELY she would not die if she ate the fruit!  The devil is subtle, and crafty!  We should never debate him on his terms!
  • In Gen 3:4 we also see the devil's first outright LIE.  Everything else he has said has been in the form of questions to goad Eve to this place of doubt.
  • And then the devil continued with a complete refutation AND an enticement.  (An enticement to Eve's pride and ego!  Much like he did when he tempted Jesus in Mt 4:3 and Mt 4:5   )  The devil entices Eve with the possibility that she could be like God!  What WAS Adam doing during all of this?  His silence is SUCH a lesson for all of us!
Verse Cross References:

  • 2Co 11:3 1Ti 2:14   --  The devil deceived Eve.  He started out with a vague and deliberately misleading question.  And that is why it is always best to NOT debate with or try to reason with the devil when we are being tempted.  Because at first it seems like he is just slightly misinformed and not all that harmful, but eventually:
  • Jn 8:44  --  The devil lies!  Period!  Gen 3:4-5 are outright lies and contradictions of God's words!  The devil hates us.  All of us!  He hates us even more when we belong to Jesus Christ.
Summarizing:

  • I think my notes to the cross-references summarize Gen 3:4-5 quite well.  The devil sets his trap ( Gen 3:1  ), waits to see if we will fall into it, ( Gen 3:2-3  ), and then when we do, he lies and springs the trap! Gen 3:4-5  And then he steps back and watches his handiwork as WE finish the task.  ( Gen 3:7  )    
  • Remember:  The devil does not make us sin.  We commit the sin!  He only leads us towards it and confuses us (if we let him)  Words to the wise:  Mt 4:10  and James 4:7  !!

GEN 3:6 

Grammatical and other Considerations:

  • "When the woman saw..."  "...she took from its fruit and ate..."  "...and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate." 
  • The above quoted fragments show us without question that the devil did not MAKE Adam or Eve sin!  Eve saw (because of her own desires!) what she wanted to see about the tree.  She took the fruit and ate.  The devil did not even give her the fruit to entice her!  Eve took it!  And then SHE gave it to Adam.  Adam did not question!  He ate of his own accord and was not coerced.  We are responsible for our sins.  We are making a choice when we sin.  Yes we might be tempted, we might even be deceived but it is still our sin! 
Verse Cross References:

  • James 1:14-15  James 4:1-4 --  These passages from James so clearly highlight why we sin and why Adam and Eve sinned.  Our (their) own lusts and desires.  We want (covet!  Ex 20:17 )  and then ignore everything that God has shown, taught or commanded us!
  • 1Jn 2:16  --  "lust of the eyes"  That often does is in!
  • Mt 5:28  --  Jesus is giving an explicit example of the generality that James speaks of in James 1:14-15    If we lust (covet) after someone or something we have literally sown the seed for sin!  It may not sprout right away but it has been planted!!  We must avoid coveting and keep our focus on what God wants for us!

Summarizing:

  • I think that Ex 20:17  and  James 1:14-15 summarize this verse very well!  We cannot let the seed of sin plant roots!  If a sinful thought (a temptation) enters our mind or is seen in our periphery we must quickly pray, read God's Word, or just simply flee!  If we let it have time to set roots it will become harder and harder to NOT commit the sin! 

Final Thoughts

  • In this heartbreaking moment in Scripture we are able to see our own lives.  We see how we can and will be tempted and we also see that the responsibility lies with us!!  When discussing the main causes of temptation I listed the following:  The Devil, Associating with the wrong People, Worldly concerns or enticements, and our own desires.
  • In Gen 3:1-6  we see the devil tempting Eve through deception and ultimately playing on her own desires. We also see Adam fail Eve!  (in this case and in this moment he was a wrong association in that he did NOT help her!!)  We see Eve enticed by something in the world...power and knowledge.  She allowed this lust for power to take her mind off of God!  And finally we see her give in to her own lusts and desires and completely ignore God's commands!  And that is how sin happens.  Not always in that order, and in different degrees but that is the basic blueprint. 
  • Ultimately we should learn from Adam and Eve's horrible mistake. 
  •  I hope that I DO learn!

Bibliography


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In our next segment we will begin to look at how to AVOID temptation!