Temptation

Summary

The Bible teaches that temptation is common to people, that God provides a way of escape, and that fleeing sin is wisdom—not weakness.

What the Bible teaches

Christ was tempted yet without sin. Believers are warned to watch and pray, resist the devil, and pursue holiness with sober minds.

Key passages

  • 1 Corinthians 10:13

    There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

    Translation: KJV

  • James 1:14–15

    But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

    Translation: KJV

  • Matthew 26:41

    Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

    Translation: KJV

Practical application

Identify patterns that feed temptation, remove easy access where possible, pray immediately, and replace the lure with obedience.

Deeper guides

Guidance from Good Old Dan. Scripture quotations are from the King James Version. Ask a related question.