There is a select group among Christians. A group that must believe that they are already living in Heaven. As they truly believe that they are not subject to the same temptation that others are. In fact, many people who believe this look down on those who fall into sin because such a thing could never happen to a real Christian.
Yet the Bible tells a different story. One that starts with the fact that no matter who you are or what you try to do, you will be tempted. Until the Lord returns the devil will continue his work and that means working to cause others to sin.
Of course, scripture tells us that God will always provide us a way out when we are tempted. But that does not mean Christians will always find it. Really even the best Christians will miss the escape route from time to time and have to circle back through repentance.
1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)
13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
What those who believe they are immune to temptation must understand is that it is a continual battle. Temptation is not something we overcome once and then it is done but something we must continue to overcome throughout our life. When Jesus overcame satan’s temptation in the wilderness the Bible did not say it was over. But that the devil was only going away for a time to return in another time.
Luke 4:13 (ESV)
13 And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time.
So Christians can not become complacent and believe that because they have overcome temptation before it’s now over. Or that they are not subject to temptation like others are. There are no super Christians who never fall. Scripture makes a point to warn those who they think won’t fall. Because temptation is common to us all and we can give in at any time and at times not even realize it.
1 Corinthians 10:12–13 (ESV)
12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Not only is the Bible sure to warn those who believe they can stand against temptation. But even warns those who attempt to help others that have fallen into sin. By saying that they must be careful or they too could fall into the very same sin.
Galatians 6:1 (ESV)
6 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
Know that temptation is a reality that we must all face and it remains a part of our lives until the end. Don’t convince yourself that you are safe and can’t be tempted into sin. It can take any of us if we become overconfident and do not continually work to stand against the attacks of the enemy. The worst thing you can do is fall to sin and lose out on salvation all because you thought you were too good to be tempted.
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