"For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted." - Hebrews 2:18 (ESV)
Jesus warned believers that they would face temptation in this world and encouraged them to pray that they would not succumb to it. In these messages, Alistair Begg provides practical, biblical advice on dealing with temptation.
Temptation (James 1:12-15) — Listen (Free) | Download MP3 (Free)
Temptation is the enticement to sin and is rooted in our own evil desire. Outside forces do not compel us to engage in sinful or evil behavior, but the desire within our own hearts draws us into a disobedient realm. While the devil serves as a source of temptation, the decision to indulge in our desires is internally conceived. Alistair Begg explains that acting on temptation is an “inside job” and warns us to be vigilant against its enticement.
Self-Control (Galatians 5:23) — Listen (Free) | Download MP3 (Free)
No one is perfect. We resolve to “try harder,” yet our self-effort always falls short. In fact, our response to temptation exposes our heart’s desires: when we sin, it demonstrates that we love the sin more than we love God. In this message, Alistair Begg explores the need for self-control as we seek to live lives pleasing to our Lord. How can self-control become our “new normal”? As we depend on God’s grace, we are enabled to live within boundaries He has established, motivated not by rules but by our love for Him.
When Tempted... (James 1:13-18)— Listen (Free) | Download MP3 (Free)
Where does temptation come from and how are we to deal with it? Alistair Begg offers straightforward and practical advice about temptation in this message from the book of James. Because we live in a fallen world, all of our desires have the potential for evil.
The Danger of Disqualification (1 Corinthians 9:27-10:14) — Listen (Free) | Download MP3 (Free)
The world tells us that self-confidence is the key to success. But the Bible warns that confidence in ourselves can actually be the path to disaster in the Christian life. Instead, Christians should be mindful of our own frailty, learn from the examples that scripture provides, avoid presumption, and flee temptation.
The Other Man's Grass (Exodus 20:17) — Listen (Free) | Download MP3 (Free)
When we desire what others have, our hearts have fallen prey to covetousness. Alistair Begg explains that covetousness promotes selfishness and pride while destroying relationships. The measure of our lives is in commitment to Christ rather than in what we might possess. We will only succeed in battling covetousness when we set our sights on knowing and serving Him.