Ascent

Have you ever been tempted to do something you know you shouldn’t do?

If you don’t handle temptation, temptation will handle you.




The first time Satan tempts Jesus.

After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.’ Matthew 4:2 - 3

It was the wrong timing.

It could be seen as an act of pride.

Will God provide for me in my time of need? Doubt

Jesus answered, It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ Matthew 4:4

Why is it important to be in God’s Word?

The second time Satan tempts Jesus.

Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. ’If you are the Son of God,’ he said, ‘throw yourself down. For it is written: ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’’ Matthew 4:5 - 6

Jesus answered him, ‘It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’’ Matthew 4:7

Why is it important to be in God’s Word?

The third time Satan tempts Jesus.

Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. ’All this I will give you,’ he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me.’ Matthew 4:8 - 9

Instant gratification

Jesus said to him, ’Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.” Matthew 4:10

Why is it important to be in God’s Word?

If you don’t handle temptation, temptation will handle you.

God will provide, God will protect, and God is Lord of all.

What is Jesus trying to tell us from being on that mountain?

If you don’t handle temptation, temptation will handle you.

Pride is the biggest stumbling block for someone to follow Christ with their life.

Three steps to follow Jesus.
Admitting I’ve made mistakes (sin).
Believing Jesus is my Savior.
Committing my life to Him.

Most people don’t have a knowledge problem following Jesus, they have a pride problem.