Scriptures Cited: Ephesians 6:12; James 1:14; Ephesians 6:11; Genesis 3:1; 2 Peter 3:16; 1 John 2:16; Genesis 3:6; Psalm 19:12; Genesis 2:18; James 5:14; Hebrews 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 3:17

Introduction

• Our faith is spiritual but temptation is physical. All of us deal with real battles in our faith
• We need to be prepared physically for battles fought spiritually

I. The Enemy Doesn’t Fight Fair

• Jesus fasted 40 days and Satan tempted him with bread
• Satan will use the things you’re weakest towards. Temptation doesn’t work if it’s not something you want

II. The Enemy Will Twist the Truth

• Satan knows and twists scripture to cause doubt and temptation
  • He twisted scripture with Jesus (vs. 6)
  • He twisted scripture with Eve (Gen. 3:1-5)
• If we’re not sure of what the Bible says, it’s easy to get confused
• Knowing the gospel equips you to resist these attacks. Jesus knew the gospel (vs. 4, 7, 10)

III. The Enemy Will Attack On All Sides

• Satan attacks Jesus in three ways (body, mind, soul)
  • 1 Jn 2:16 is the “threefold of temptation”
    • Eve faced similar temptation
  • All temptation will happen in one of these ways
• It’s important to be on guard in all areas. Relationships with other believers will help

IV. No One Fights Alone

• Dealing with battles of temptation can be lonely. People feel shame, guilt, etc., and resist help
• We’re not alone
  • Relationships in the church provide support
  • God promises to never leave us
  • Jesus wasn’t alone (vs. 11)

Victory Is Possible / Closing

• Jesus was able to overcome this attack
  • Through his strength, so can we
• Notice it got harder before it was over
• Keep going – you may be closer to victory than you think