January 17, 2021
Prepare a counter-strategy!
Have you ever learned any type of self-defense? If so, why did you learn it? If not, does that interest you?
Read Luke 4:1-13.
What is similar and different between Jesus' tempation and Adam's fall into sin as described in Genesis 3:1-6?
"In Luke’s day, it was commonly assumed that true greatness was incompatible with suffering, deprivation, and humiliation. How does Satan apply similar logic as he tempts Jesus? What details of Luke 4:9–13 foreshadow the fact that Jesus will endure ultimate suffering on the cross?" [source]
According to Ephesians 2:1-3, from what three places does sin and temptation arise?
Read James 1:13-15. Where does James locate the origin of sin?
Why is important to know that sin arises from the world, the flesh, and the devil? How does it shape our understanding of the antidote to sin?
We must not only be on guard outside of ourselves, but also examine our hearts for sin. Thankfully, the gospel promises new hearts (Jeremiah 31:33) – that is, it works from the inside out.
In 1942, C.S. Lewis publised The Screwtape Letters, a series of letters from a senior demon (named Screwtape) to his nephew (named Wormwood) instructing Wormwood on how to lead a man away from "the Enemy" (God) toward "Our Father Below" (the devil). Read this contemporary article written in this same style and then discuss.
Read this article on resisting the devil and then discuss.
Foundational to living a faithful life is Scripture intake. Do you regularly read or listen to the Bible? (Perhaps you use our Daily Guide?)
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