“”UN”Tangling Temptation (“Tangled” #2)

Taking inspiration from Matthew 4:1-11, the sermon unfolds with a look at the three areas of temptation Jesus faced in the wilderness.

Temptation 1: Provision: Who is the true source of my supply?

The first temptation the Devil tests Jesus with is, “Since you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus, hungry as he was from his 40-day fast, answers, “ It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Dr. Troy points out that it is always tempting to focus on getting some RESOURCE一 at the expense of encountering THE SOURCE一 GOD! Jesus knew his calling was transforming human hearts to find satisfaction in God一 not transforming stones to be satisfied by bread.

Temptation 2: Performance: Why am I trying to impress others, and God?

The second temptation appeals to the favor Jesus had with God. “Since you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written:

“‘God 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.’”

Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Here Pastor stresses that any time we feel the need to impress or perform for God– we tangle up the nature of what it means to live NOT JUST WITH FAITH, BUT TO LIVE FAITHFULLY. Jesus had no interest in building a fandom where people impressed with him would flock to him in awe of what he could do. Troy reminds us that a great difference exists between fans who esteem and followers who emulate.

Temptation 3: Power: How could I want the world, even at the cost of my soul?

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.”  Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” The brilliance of Jesus’ response is the truth it reveals about genuine transformation. Coercion cannot transform a person’s heart! If Jesus had taken the deal offered by satan then his power over the kingdoms could have enforced obedience but would have accomplished nothing he came to do一 awaken hearts and minds to the LOVE OF GOD always and already present for all.