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
Exodus 1:6-14 - This Sunday, we begin Roots, a new teaching series from the book of Exodus—discovering how the story of rescue in Exodus shapes our understanding of Jesus.
Exodus 36:1-7 - God calls Israel to give their wealth to build the Tabernacle, raising a timeless question: will we live open-handed, trusting God with what we hold?
Luke 12:13-21 - Jesus warns us about the hidden danger of greed. Discover three heart attitudes toward money—I deserve it, it’s all for me, and I’m better off with more—and why they matter.
Acts 20:32-38 - For three weeks, we explore what Jesus says about money. This week, Paul’s final message highlights contentment, hard work, and caring for the weak.
Luke 2:22-40 - This week we reflect on the quiet faithfulness of Joseph and Mary as they bring Jesus to the temple. In this moment of ordinary obedience, God meets them with extraordinary hope through Simeon and Anna.
Matthew 1:18-25 - God puts His people on the go. Explore God’s call to Joseph and how an ordinary life is drawn into a greater mission and purpose.
