Overcoming the Special Temptations of This Time - Zac Poonen - April 1, 2020
http://rlcfchurch.org/overcoming-special-temptations-this-time River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon applies the three temptations of Jesus in Matthew 4 to modern life, emphasizing that trials are guided by the Holy Spirit when one walks in God's will. The central message is that true survival and triumph in times of scarcity or crisis come not from physical provision (like bread), but from living by God's Word and remaining obedient to the Father's leading. Disciples must listen to God daily with the intent to obey, not merely to accumulate knowledge for preaching.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Learning from the temptations of Jesus in difficult timesAs the world focuses on the coronavirus, we can look at the temptations of Jesus in Matthew chapter 4 to see how they apply to our current situation.
Man shall not live by bread aloneThe first temptation was about physical survival and hunger, but Jesus replied that true survival comes from every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.Matthew 4:4
Waking up morning by morning to listenLike Jesus and Job, who esteemed God's words more than necessary food, we must have our ears opened every morning to listen and obey God.Isaiah 50:4
Listening to Jesus is the one thing needfulJust as Mary chose the good part by sitting at Jesus' feet, listening to the Lord is more important than even active service or ministry.
Keeping a clear conscience to hear GodTo prevent our spiritual hearing from becoming dull, we must maintain a blameless conscience before God and men at all times.Hebrews 5:11
The second temptation: Refusing to tempt GodThe devil tempted Jesus to jump from the pinnacle of the temple, which would be an act of tempting God rather than walking in true faith.Matthew 4:5–7
Faith and reason go togetherFaith does not mean being foolish or avoiding practical means like medicine and government safety guidelines; reason is a gift from God.
Being subject to governing authoritiesDisobeying reasonable government regulations to gather for services in search of personal fame is a form of tempting God and opposing His command.Romans 13:1–2
The third temptation: Rejecting the world's wealth and powerSatan offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship, illustrating the danger of letting money become a master rather than a servant.Matthew 4:8–9
The example of Moses choosing God over EgyptMoses refused the honor, passing pleasures of sin, and treasures of Egypt, teaching us to instill eternal values in the next generation.Hebrews 11:24–26
Building relationships within our own homesThis period of staying at home provides a unique opportunity to turn the hearts of fathers to their children and build strong spiritual foundations at home.
