“Excuse The Interruptions.” Hi online family! We are so glad that you’re here with us at Colonial Church. We invite you to subscribe and share this message with others in your world because we believe that with Jesus at the center, the best is yet to come! As we connect with Colonial Church in St. Augustine, Florida, we encourage you to visit our website or reach out to us through social media to get more involved. Today, we are on part three of our series on purpose, and we will be diving into Matthew chapter four. This passage focuses on the temptations faced by Jesus and the importance of staying on track with God’s plan. So, sit back, relax, and let the message inspire and uplift you in your journey. Don’t forget to share it with someone and be a part of what God is doing together!”
Introduction
Welcome to this comprehensive article on Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness and the lessons we can learn from them. In this article, we will explore the three temptations that Jesus faced, how he responded with scripture, and the significance of these temptations in our own lives. We will also delve into the topic of interruptions and staying on purpose, drawing from personal anecdotes and examples from Jesus’ teachings. Lastly, we will examine the powerful story of Peter walking on water with Jesus and the lessons it holds for us. So let’s dive in and discover the wisdom that can guide us in our daily lives!
Jesus’ Temptations in the Wilderness
Jesus’ baptism
Before we delve into the temptations that Jesus faced, let’s first set the stage by acknowledging his baptism. Jesus, the Son of God, humbly submitted himself to be baptized by John in the Jordan River. As Jesus came up from the water, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove. A voice from heaven declared, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This event marked the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and his journey towards the fulfillment of his purpose on earth.
Temptation 1: Turning stones into bread
After his baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where he fasted for forty days and forty nights. It was during this time that he encountered the first of three temptations. Satan, the enemy of God, approached Jesus when he was weak and hungry and said, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” Here, Satan attempted to exploit Jesus’ physical hunger to distract him from his divine purpose.
Temptation 2: Jumping off the temple
In the next temptation, Satan took Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple in Jerusalem and challenged him to throw himself down, saying, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, ‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'” Satan cunningly twisted scripture to appeal to Jesus’ desire for affirmation and to tempt him into seeking self-glorification rather than relying on God’s will.
Temptation 3: Worshiping the devil
In the final temptation, Satan took Jesus to a high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. Satan boldly offered Jesus all these things if he would bow down and worship him. Satan’s aim was to divert Jesus from his mission of bringing salvation to humanity and instead tempt him with power, wealth, and authority.
Jesus’ responses with scripture
In each of these temptations, Jesus responded with scripture, illustrating the power of God’s word as a weapon against temptation. He quoted passages such as “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God,” “Again, it is written, ‘You shall not test the Lord, your God,'” and “Get behind me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.'” Jesus demonstrated the importance of knowing and relying on God’s word to resist the enemy’s schemes effectively.
Preaching on Interruptions and Staying on Purpose
Personal anecdote about a car accident as an interruption
Interruptions are a common part of life, and they can range from trivial inconveniences to significant disruptions. Allow me to share a personal anecdote to illustrate the impact of interruptions. One day, on my way to an important meeting, I was involved in a car accident that completely derailed my plans. It was frustrating and disheartening, but as I reflect back on that experience, I realize that it taught me valuable lessons about staying on purpose amidst interruptions.
The enemy’s mission to steal, kill, and destroy
Just as interruptions can throw us off course in our daily lives, the enemy of our souls seeks to do the same on a spiritual level. Jesus himself acknowledged the enemy’s mission, stating, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” The enemy’s ultimate goal is to separate us from God, rob us of our joy and purpose, and destroy our lives. Understanding this truth allows us to be alert and prepared, ready to stand against the schemes of the enemy.
Jesus offers abundant life
Thankfully, Jesus offers an alternative to the enemy’s destructive tactics. He said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Unlike the enemy who seeks to bring death and destruction, Jesus came to bring life in all its fullness. This abundant life encompasses not only our eternal salvation but also the fulfillment of God’s purposes and blessings in our daily lives. It is a life marked by joy, peace, and purpose.
Characteristics of Jesus and the enemy
To navigate interruptions and stay on purpose, it is essential to understand the characteristics of both Jesus and the enemy. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. He is our beacon of light, guiding us along the path of righteousness and showing us how to live in alignment with God’s will. On the other hand, the enemy is cunning, deceitful, and relentless. He seeks to lure us away from God’s plan through temptations and distractions.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life
Jesus’ words, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me,” reveal the exclusivity and centrality of his role in our lives. He is the only way to eternal life and to fulfilling the purpose for which we were created. By embracing Jesus, we allow him to lead us, guide us, and empower us to stay on the path of purpose amidst interruptions.
The enemy’s goal is to steal and bring death
The enemy’s ultimate goal remains stealing, killing, and destroying. Just as he tempted Jesus with distractions and enticements, he continues to do the same with us. The enemy knows our weaknesses and vulnerabilities, and he uses them against us to divert our attention from God’s purpose. It is crucial to recognize these tactics and stand firm against them, holding onto Jesus as our anchor.
Pursuing human desires versus God’s desires
Interruptions often arise from our pursuit of human desires rather than God’s desires. We may be tempted by material possessions, power, recognition, or other worldly pursuits that distract us from God’s call on our lives. Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness serve as a vivid reminder that fulfilling our selfish desires can hinder us from experiencing the fullness of God’s purpose for us.
Jesus’ empathy for humans through temptations
The fact that Jesus himself faced temptations shows his deep empathy for us as humans. He understands the allure of worldly temptations and the struggle to resist them. Yet, he overcame every temptation by relying on God’s word and staying focused on fulfilling his purpose. Through his victory, Jesus provides us with the model and the power to resist temptation and stay on track.
Jesus resisting the temptation to turn stones into bread
In the first temptation, when Jesus was hungry, he resisted the urge to turn stones into bread. While it may seem like a harmless act, Jesus recognized that bending to this temptation would divert him from his primary purpose. By standing firm and relying on God for sustenance, Jesus exemplified the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment over temporary physical needs.
Human desires hindering fulfilling purpose
Our human desires can often hinder us from fulfilling our God-given purpose. We may be tempted to prioritize personal success, comfort, or pleasure above obedience to God’s calling. However, Jesus’ example teaches us that fulfilling our purpose requires sacrificing our own desires and aligning our will with God’s.
Power and authority to resist temptation through God’s word and armor
To resist temptation effectively, we need to rely on God’s word and put on the armor of God. Jesus’ responses to the temptations in the wilderness show us the power and authority we have through scripture. Just as Jesus quoted scripture to counter each temptation, we too can draw strength and guidance from God’s word to overcome the schemes of the enemy.
Scripture as the best weapon against the enemy
Scripture is not just a valuable resource; it is the best weapon we have against the enemy. Just as Jesus used scripture to resist temptation, we can wield it as a sword to overcome challenges and distractions. When we arm ourselves with the truth and promises of God’s word, the enemy’s tactics lose their power over us.
Praying scripture to overcome challenges
In addition to reading and meditating on scripture, we can also pray God’s word to overcome challenges and temptations. Praying scripture not only reinforces our faith but also invites God’s power and wisdom into our circumstances. By aligning our prayers with the truths and promises of scripture, we invite God’s intervention and victory into our lives.
Choosing selfishness over selflessness
One of the recurring themes in Jesus’ life and teachings is the choice between selfishness and selflessness. The temptations in the wilderness highlight this choice vividly. Each temptation offered Jesus the chance to prioritize his own desires over God’s will. However, Jesus consistently chose selflessness, demonstrating the importance of surrendering our will to the Father’s and seeking to serve others.
Jesus’ selflessness and focus on the father’s will
Jesus’ life was characterized by selflessness and an unswerving focus on the Father’s will. He willingly sacrificed his comfort, safety, and personal desires to fulfill the mission entrusted to him. Jesus’ example challenges us to examine our own motives and choices. Are we seeking our own gain or are we willing to lay down our lives for the sake of others and the fulfillment of God’s purpose?
The temptation of the pride of life
Another temptation that Jesus faced was the pride of life. Satan enticed Jesus by offering him authority and glory over all the kingdoms of the world. This temptation targeted Jesus’ desire for recognition and authority, appealing to his human nature. Yet, even in the face of such an enticing offer, Jesus rejected it, recognizing the danger and emptiness of pride.
The devil tempting Jesus in the Holy City Jerusalem
The location of the second temptation, the Holy City Jerusalem, holds significance. Satan chose a place of deep spiritual and symbolic importance to present this temptation. By doing so, he attempted to undermine the spiritual authority and integrity of Jesus. This serves as a reminder that the enemy often attacks us in our most vulnerable moments and places, seeking to weaken our resolve.
The challenge of jumping off the highest point of the Temple
In the second temptation, Satan challenged Jesus to jump off the highest point of the Temple, luring him into testing God’s protection. However, Jesus firmly resisted this temptation, recognizing that testing God is not a sign of true faith. He understood the importance of obedience and trust in God’s will, rather than tempting fate for personal gain.
Jesus refusing and emphasizing not testing the Lord
Jesus’ response to Satan’s temptation not only demonstrated his unwavering devotion to God but also highlighted the danger of testing the Lord. He firmly declared, “Again, it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test.'” By rejecting the temptation to test God’s faithfulness, Jesus emphasized the importance of trust and reliance on God’s sovereignty.
The danger of pride and its consequences
Pride is a dangerous temptation that can lead to devastating consequences. It blinds us to our own shortcomings, distorts our perspectives, and isolates us from God’s grace. By resisting the allure of authority and recognition, Jesus exemplified humility and reminded us of the destructive nature of pride. Humility, on the other hand, opens the door to God’s favor, guidance, and blessing.
Importance of serving others instead of seeking personal gain
Jesus consistently modeled a life of service and selflessness. He prioritized the needs of others above his own desires and showed us the true meaning of leadership. As we face our own temptations, we need to remember that serving others and seeking God’s kingdom should always take precedence over personal gain. By embracing a servant heart, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and experience the true fulfillment that comes from selfless living.
Jesus’ example of serving and sacrificing
Jesus’ entire life was a testament to the power of serving and sacrificing for others. From healing the sick to feeding the hungry, he poured out his love and compassion unconditionally. Ultimately, his ultimate act of selflessness came through his sacrificial death on the cross, where he bore the sins of the world. Jesus’ example challenges us to imitate his servant-heartedness and embrace a lifestyle of sacrificial love.
Trusting in Jesus to release us to serve Him and grow in humility
Trusting in Jesus releases us from the bondage of self-centeredness and empowers us to serve Him wholeheartedly. It is in surrendering our desires, plans, and ambitions to Him that we find true freedom. As we trust in Jesus, He enables us to grow in humility and become vessels of His love and grace to the world. By embracing this trust, we can fulfill our purpose and experience the joy that comes from selflessly serving others.
Focusing on comfort versus following one’s calling
Another temptation we often encounter is the pull towards comfort and security. We may be tempted to choose the path of least resistance, avoiding challenges and risks that come with following our calling. However, Jesus’ example challenges us to prioritize our purpose over our comfort. He embraced the challenges of his mission, even when it meant facing hardship and suffering. By following Jesus’ lead, we can overcome the allure of comfort and step into the fullness of our calling.
The temptation of lust and its distraction from God’s plan
Lust, whether for material possessions, power, or unhealthy relationships, has the power to derail us from God’s plan. It blinds us to the true purpose and fulfillment that come from living in alignment with God’s will. Jesus’ life serves as a contrast to this temptation. He consistently resisted the temptation to satisfy his own desires, choosing instead to seek the Father’s will above all else.
Peter Walking on Water with Jesus
Peter initially walking on water towards Jesus
One of the most captivating stories in the Bible is that of Peter walking on water with Jesus. It provides a powerful metaphor for our journey of faith and illustrates the importance of staying focused on Jesus amidst distractions and challenges. In this story, the disciples found themselves in a boat in the midst of a storm while Jesus walked on water towards them. Peter, filled with faith and trust, stepped out of the boat and began walking towards Jesus on the tumultuous sea.
Becoming terrified and sinking due to distractions
As Peter walked towards Jesus, he became distracted by the wind and the waves. Fear crept in, causing him to take his eyes off Jesus and focus on the storm around him. This distraction caused Peter to lose faith and sink beneath the waves. This part of the story serves as a reminder of the perils of allowing external circumstances and distractions to divert our attention from Jesus.
Calling out to Jesus for help and being saved
In his moment of fear and desperation, Peter cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus, ever faithful and compassionate, immediately reached out his hand and caught Peter, rescuing him from the deep waters. This act of salvation demonstrates Jesus’ loving response to our cries for help. It also reminds us of the significance of calling on Jesus and relying on his strength to overcome our struggles.
Importance of staying focused on Jesus despite distractions and challenges
The story of Peter walking on water highlights the incredible importance of staying focused on Jesus despite distractions and challenges. Just as Peter sank when he took his eyes off Jesus, we too can lose our sense of purpose and direction when we become fixated on the storms of life. By keeping our gaze fixed on Jesus, we can walk confidently on the waters of faith, even in the midst of life’s challenges.
Speaker’s personal experience of disconnecting from distractions to connect with God
I can personally testify to the impact of disconnecting from distractions in order to connect with God. There have been times in my life when I felt overwhelmed by various commitments and responsibilities. In those moments, I realized the need to disconnect from worldly distractions and intentionally create space for prayer, meditation, and scripture reading. As I did so, I found my focus realigned, my perspective renewed, and my sense of purpose rekindled.
Resisting the enemy and pursuing God’s calling
As we seek to stay on purpose and resist the enemy’s distractions, it is vital to remember that we are engaged in a spiritual battle. The enemy seeks to divert us from fulfilling God’s calling, but we have the power and authority in Christ to resist his schemes. By intentionally pursuing God’s will, equipping ourselves with His word, and leaning on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome distractions and stay true to our purpose.
Encouragement to meditate on God’s word and fight with His word
One powerful weapon that we have in our arsenal against distractions and temptations is God’s word. By meditating on scripture, internalizing its truth, and storing it in our hearts, we can combat the lies of the enemy and find guidance and strength for the journey. As we fight distractions, we can actively speak God’s word over our circumstances, relying on its power to guide us and empower us to stay on purpose.
Emphasis on serving others
A key element of staying on purpose is the call to serve others. Just as Jesus exemplified servant leadership, we too are called to extend a helping hand and share the love of Christ with those around us. By focusing on the needs of others rather than on our own desires, we align ourselves with God’s heart and purposes. Serving others not only brings fulfillment but also keeps us connected to our true purpose.
Prayer for those feeling under attack and invitation to accept Jesus as Savior
For those who may be feeling under attack by distractions and temptations, let me offer a prayer for you. Heavenly Father, I pray for all those who are feeling overwhelmed by the distractions of life. I ask that you would grant them clarity, strength, and guidance to stay on purpose and overcome the schemes of the enemy. I also extend an invitation to anyone who has not yet accepted Jesus as their Savior. May you open their hearts to receive the love and forgiveness that Jesus offers and guide them on the path of true purpose and fulfillment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the temptations faced by Jesus in the wilderness serve as essential lessons for us in navigating interruptions and staying on purpose. Through his example, Jesus demonstrates the power of relying on God’s word and resisting the distractions and temptations that come our way. As we consider the challenges and distractions we encounter in our own lives, let us remember the importance of staying focused on Jesus, embracing selflessness over selfishness, and pursuing God’s calling above all else. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can resist the enemy, walk confidently amidst life’s storms, and experience the abundant life that Jesus offers. So let’s choose to stay on purpose and allow God’s guiding hand to lead us each step of the way.
WELCOME TO CHURCH!
We are so glad that you’re here! Please consider subscribing and sharing this message with someone in your world. No matter where you find yourself today, we believe that with Jesus at the focus, the best is yet to come!
CONNECT WITH US
Want to get more connected with Colonial Church in St. Augustine, Florida? We would love to hear from you! Visit our website or reach out to us through social media.
Colonial Website – http://www.colonialchurch.life/
Colonial Instagram – https://instagram.colonialchurch.life
Colonial Podcast – https://podcast.colonialchurch.life
Ps. Matt McCloghry Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/mattmccloghry/
Ps. Jill McCloghry Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jillmccloghry/