Getting to the Root of Our Problems – Part 3 | Three Temptations of Jesus Christ

If you have been with us on the journey of biblical self-discovery—stepping into your assignment and understanding your covenant relationship—then you know you must be aware of the one who wants to steal the blessing of your inheritance.

You have stepped onto the path of your calling, and now it is time to move. But there are times when movement seems impossible. You may keep hitting ceilings and walls that prevent you from a promotion.

If you missed part 1 or 2 of Getting to the Root of Our Problems, you can read those by clicking on the corresponding title below:

If you have come before the Lord as the Righteous Judge in the Courts of Heaven, humbly acknowledging your transgressions and decreeing and declaring the righteous blood of Jesus that covers you, then you are on a journey to your breakthrough.

You have turned that repentant corner and now ready to deal with some problematic situations, relationships, or behaviors in your life. And there is no better place to start than with how Christ dealt with and conquered those same issues of the heart.

What Does the Bible Say about Overcoming Temptation?

Christ was tempted in every way.

“For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.”—Hebrews 4:15

Christ gave us His righteousness and set us free from sin.

“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”—2 Corinthians 5:21

“Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.”—Romans 6:6

We can resist

“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.”—Galatians 5:16

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”—1 Corinthians 10:13

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”—James 4:7

We are not expected to be perfect; we are being perfected through the process.

“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”—2 Corinthians 12:9

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.”—Philippians 3:12

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”—Romans 12:2

From these verses, we can conclude that because Christ took on our sin, gave us His righteousness, and provided the Holy Spirit that resides in us, we too can use the Word of God to walk in victory!

The Three Temptations of Jesus Christ

From the Garden to the wilderness, the enemy is still up to the same game. There is nothing new under the sun (see Ecclesiastes 1:9). What the enemy has used, he will use again and again. But we hold the key to overcoming it.

The Holy Spirit gives us wisdom and discernment to fight the battle and ask for a verdict in our favor.

In Matthew 4, the devil makes another appearance similar to the one in the Garden, with the intent to tempt. But the difference is the temptations of Jesus Christ were resisted, and He remained without sin. Adam’s disobedience brought death, while Christ’s obedience brought life and righteousness.

“For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.”—Romans 5:19

We see again…

Pleasure (lust of the flesh)
Pride (pride of life)
Possessions (lust of the eyes)

…as Jesus entered the wilderness after being baptized and stepping into His assignment. As you step into yours, be aware of the roaring lion lurking.

Read how Satan tempted and Christ responded by using the Word of God as His sword in this spiritual battle.

1. Pleasure (lust of the flesh)

“Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, ‘If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.’ But He answered and said, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”’”—Matthew 4:3-4

2. Pride (pride of life)

“Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, ‘If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: “He shall give His angels charge over you,” and, “In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.”’ Jesus said to him, ‘It is written again, “You shall not tempt the Lord your God.”’”—Matthew 4:5-7

3. Possessions (lust of the eyes)

“Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, ‘All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.’ Then Jesus said to him, ‘Away with you, Satan! For it is written, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.”’”—Matthew 4:8-10

Jesus resisted, and the devil fled.

Each of us deals with these tests and trials on a daily basis… We have a choice. We have an opportunity through these struggles to draw near to God and embrace, decree, and declare His promises.

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”—James 4:8

Or you can try to walk in this world alone, leaning on your own understanding, and end on a crooked path.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”—Proverbs 3:5-6

Remember, God’s Word is useful for teaching, correcting, and making us turn our minds from wrong to right (see 2 Timothy 3:16).

We have to be willing to love and appreciate His instruction if we want to experience a spiritual breakthrough and fulfill our destiny.

The Lord did not intend for this journey to be taken alone. He wants to be involved and He brings others into your life to walk alongside you, being a partner to help you get from one stop to the next.

“Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”—Ecclesiastes 4:12

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Join us next for a breakdown of how the enemy’s schemes could be manifesting in your life.

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