Locations & Times

Do you ever feel as if no one understands your struggles? Jesus knows what we go through because He faced the same challenges. Pastor Jim talks about the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness, connecting them to our own struggles. He talks about how it's important to trust God and shares how Jesus did it. The message reminds us to say no to things that seem good but are actually tricks, to be strong as God's children, and to deal with life's tough parts. We invite you to join in and learn valuable lessons for a happy life. 

SETLIST

"Rest On Us / God Problems TAG"

"Reign Above It All / Rest On Us TAG"

"Battle Belongs" Available on “Hymn Of Heaven” from Phil Wickham

GROUP QUESTIONS

Temptation

Jim Burgen

 Jan 14th, 2024

// Bible References
Matt 4:1-11; James 1:13-15; 1 Cor 2:8, 10:12-13; 2 Cor 10:4-6; Psalm 91:3-6; Isaiah 7:12,14; Deut 6:13, 32:8

// Community Question: What is your most tempting guilty pleasure?

// Discussion Questions:

1. Read James 1:13-15 Pastor Jim explained the goal of temptation is to see us fail, while the goal of a trial is to see us succeed and become stronger. God tests with trials but doesn't tempt with evil. What is the difference between a trial and a temptation? How does understanding this help us in our spiritual life? When have you faced a trial in your own life, and how did it strengthen your faith?
2. Read 1 Cor 10:12-13. Jim emphasized that temptations may come from Satan or our own desires, but God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability. How does this truth impact our responsibility in resisting temptation? Why is it important to take responsibility when we give into temptation and not blame God? How does taking responsibility help us resist future temptation?
3. Read Matt 4:1-4 In the sermon, it was explained that Jesus trusted God’s truth when faced with temptation to satisfy His hunger outside of God’s design. He chose not to go against God's will, even when He was hungry for something that God intended for Him to have…physical nourishment. What are some ways you can hold onto God's truth when faced with temptations in your own life?
4. Read Matt 4: 8-10. In this passage, Satan offers Jesus all the nations of the world if Jesus would worship him. Jesus rejected the offer, quoting Deuteronomy 6 which emphasized the importance of worshiping and serving God alone. In what ways might the world offer us its 'kingdoms' today, and how can we stand firm in serving and worshiping God alone?
5. The sermon concluded with the assurance that God's power is greater than Satan's, and with the Holy Spirit living in us, we can live a victorious life. How does having the Holy Spirit living in us change our ability to face and overcome temptations? In your own life, how have you experienced the Holy Spirit's guidance or empowerment during moments of temptation or spiritual struggle?

// Challenge: What might be a temptation you are facing that you could use the support and prayer of your small group to overcome?