July 21, 2024
Temptation Pt. 3 | Matt. 4:1-11
What’s Wrong with Shortcuts?
Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness happened at the hands of an enemy who wanted to derail him … and who now wants to destroy us. We need to be aware of this enemy’s presence, stay alert to his methods, and learn how to avoid them.
Songs for this week: Spotify
- In what ways does our culture minimize or make light of the devil and his strategies?
- What is your view of the devil? Skeptical? Curious? Avoidant? Fearful? Why?
- The devil offered an easy way to the kingdom Jesus had come for. Explain the problem with the devil’s shortcut. Where do you see people taking those kinds of shortcuts today?
- The tempter came to Jesus when he was isolated in the wilderness. When are you most vulnerable to temptation?
- What is the enemy whispering most often to you these days? What Scripture would help you turn to Jesus in those moments?
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Recent Sermons
Luke 1:26-38 - This Christmas, discover how God is on the move—sending Gabriel to Mary in Nazareth and inviting ordinary people into the greatest story ever told. Explore Mary’s costly yet courageous “yes” and what it reveals about the Christian life.
Luke 1:5-17 - The first Christmas bursts to life with promise and purpose—God sets His plan in motion, beginning in Jerusalem with an elderly priest and a miraculous birth announcement. Excitement is rising, and the story is just beginning.
Mark 3:32-35 - Discover why community is the most essential practice for following Jesus. This week’s passage highlights the kind of people we’re called to walk with—those who do the will of God.
Jn. 15:5-17 - Discover how staying connected to Jesus—the true vine—produces lasting spiritual fruit. Learn how a simple Rule of Life, shaped by practices like prayer, Scripture, sabbath, solitude, community, and service, helps us remain rooted in Him.
Mark 2:17 - Jesus came to call sinners—those who know they miss the mark. Following him begins with humility and self-awareness, not perfection.
Matthew 26:36-39 - Christian practices like prayer and Sabbath quiet the noise so we can hear God’s voice and face the deeper emotions He invites us to heal.
