Genuine Faith Resists Temptation
James 1:13-18
Understanding God (James 1:13, 16-18)
God is not _________________________________________________.
God does not _______________________________________________.
God is the _________________________________________________.
Key Idea: God is not ___________________________________________.
Understanding Temptation (James 1:14-15)
We all have different ___________________________________________ because we all have different _____________________________________.
Temptation=
Sin =
Resisting Temptation requires us to:
____________________ our DESIRES.
____________________ our OPPORTUNITIES.
____________________ taking ACTION.
1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptations he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
“When it comes to temptation, there is always more at stake than we think.” ~Andy Stanley
Death =
When we have sinned we must ____________________________________.
Connection Group Questions/ For Further Study
Read James 1:12-18
Verses 12-13
The Greek word peirázō can refer to either trial/testing or temptation. The context of the word determines its intended meaning. What do you think is the key difference between trials (v 2, 12) and temptations (v 13)?
Think of a temptation you have faced unsuccessfully. What was the outcome? In hindsight, how would you handle the temptation differently?
Verse 13 What do we learn about the character of God?
Verse 14 What is the actual source of temptation?
Verse 15 What is the certain result of giving into temptation?
Read these passages individually and answer the following questions for each passage: What instructions does this passage give us about dealing with temptation and sin? What are some examples of ways we can do what this passage says?
Mark 8:34
Romans 8:12-14
Galatians 5:24-25
Colossians 3:1-5
Verse 16
Why do you think it was important to James (and to God) for us to know that God is NOT the one who tempts us to sin or do evil things?
Verses 17-18
God is never the source of our temptation, but according to James, what things is the source of? (See also verse 5)
How could each of these characteristics of God help us deal with temptation in our lives?
Take some time to share the areas of your life you have been struggling in. As a group, take time to pray for each person that they might find victory/freedom in their areas of struggle.
What one step can you take this week to better live in light of this truth?
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