MAIN SCRIPTURE:
Matthew 4:1-11: Jesus' temptation in the wilderness.

JESUS' TEMPTATIONS
Temptation 1: Stones to Bread

Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:3-4

Key Point: Jesus responds with Deuteronomy 8:3, emphasizing reliance on God's word over physical needs.

Reflection: Consider how we often prioritise immediate gratification over spiritual nourishment.

Temptation 2: Jump from the Temple

Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:5-7

Key Point: Jesus counters with Deuteronomy 6:16, teaching that testing God is not an act of faith.

Reflection: Reflect on moments when we test God rather than trust Him.

Temptation 3: Worldly Dominion

Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:8-10

Key Point: Jesus refuses to worship Satan, affirming exclusive worship to God.

Reflection: Identify areas where we might be tempted to compromise our allegiance to God for worldly gain.

UNDERSTANDING TEMPTATION
Definition: Temptation is anything that promises _____________ at the cost of _____________ to God.

Reflection: Identify personal temptations and how they promise false satisfaction.

THREE TRUTHS ABOUT TEMPTATION
1) It is not _____________ to be tempted.

Key Point: Jesus was tempted but did not sin. Temptation is part of the human experience.

Reflection: Release unnecessary guilt associated with being tempted.

2) You are most ____________ to temptation in your genuine weakness AND deceptive moments when you believe you are strong.

Key Point: We are vulnerable when weak and when we believe we are strong.

Reflection: Be honest about personal frailties and seek community support.

3) Our ____________ God always provides a way out.

Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 10:13

Key Point: God is faithful and provides a way to endure temptation.

Reflection: Use Scripture as a tool to find strength and guidance.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION
Identify Your Greatest Temptation: Reflect on personal struggles.

Define a Specific Boundary: Set clear limits to avoid falling into temptation.

Pray and Seek Accountability: Engage in prayer and find a trusted friend for support.

Weekly Reflection: At the end of the week, assess strengths and weaknesses and bring them to God.

CONCLUSION
Key Thought: Jesus understands temptation and offers the tools to overcome it.

Encouragement: Be alert, arm yourself with God's Word, and rely on God's strength to resist temptation.

NOTE: This guide is designed to help the congregation actively engage with the sermon, reflect on personal experiences with temptation, and apply biblical truths to their lives.

If you want to receive Jesus’ love today, pray this prayer:

Jesus, I'm taking a step of faith. I am choosing to believe that You can make me whole, even though I often feel unseen. I am giving my life to You, Jesus, because I want to know true worth and acceptance. Guide me, show me how to follow You, and help me to trust that You have a good plan for my life. Show me what it means to be whole and loved in Your family. Amen.