Formula for Battling Temptations

Jesus is our ultimate and perfect example (Jn. 13:15; 1 Cor 11:1; Eph. 5:2). Our Lord faced temptations small and great, yet never gave in to sin (Heb. 4:15). Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness (Mt. 4:1-11; Mk. 1:12-13; Lk. 4:1-13), but there were other times as well. Are you interested in overcoming temptation as Christ did? Look to this three-part formula taken from Luke 4:8.

1) Terminate the Temptation: “Get behind Me, Satan!” In this verse, the Lord’s answer begins by showing His indignation. This phrase holds a meaning somewhat like “away with you,” demonstrating how much Jesus detests sin and the temptation which would draw many into it. Of course, the one who gave such priority to being about His Father’s business would refuse offers to transgress the Father’s law (Lk. 2:49; 1 Jn. 3:4). Do we hate sin? When we are faced with worldly desires which would lead us away from the truth, then we must refuse them for the impurity they represent. We who desire to follow God must live holy (1 Pet. 1:15), therefore any temptation entering our minds must be quickly terminated before they grow into sin (Jam. 1:14-15). Don’t allow it to fester, dismiss it with haste.

2) Appeal to Authority: “For it is written…” Continuing His response, Jesus forms an argument or appeal from authority. Just as it is important to note what should not be heeded—the temptation, He also points out what must be heeded—the word of God! He knows that personal desires cannot supersede divine commands. People today need the same clarity of thought. Whenever there is a question, we must say, “what does the Bible say about this topic?” Neither my favorite opinions nor the long-cherished traditions of my chosen affiliations are authoritative. The answers do not come from man (Pro. 28:26; Jer. 10:23; Mt. 15:3). The answers come from God’s word (Psa. 119:104; Pro. 23:23; 1 Tim. 4:16).

3) Cite the Command: “You shall worship the Lord your God…” The Lord’s answer ends with purpose and direction. He states the positive command which God has revealed. In general, positive commands are much more powerful than negative ones. In decreeing what the faithful MUST do, God has marked as unauthorized all conflicting avenues of action. The same would hold true whether the command is about worship, salvation, or service. The faithful must obey the instruction God has given (Jam. 2:22; 1 Jn. 2:5). No temptation should be so alluring as to upend our recognized authority structure. Christ alone is Lord and the author of eternal salvation (Col. 3:17; Heb. 5:9). What’s more, if we know what we must be doing, then we can remain too busy for Satan’s enticements! May we overcome temptations as our Lord did.