Sermon Notes:

Series: The Lion & The Lamb  

Week 3: Jesus Conquered Sin & Temptation  

Main Text Hebrews 4:14-16 NIV “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Supporting Text: 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

I. Temptation Reveals the Battle

James 1:13-15 NIV “When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”

Temptation is universal. No one is exempt.

Definition: Temptation is an invitation to satisfy a God-given desire in a God-forbidden way.

James outlines the progression: Desire → Deception → Disobedience → Death

II. Jesus Won the Battle

Matthew 4:1–11  

Satan confronts Jesus in three core areas: Appetite, Identity, and Authority 

III. Jesus Shares His Victory

Four Principles for Victory

1. Come boldly to God  

Do not run from God in weakness—run to Him.  

Grace meets you before failure, not just after it.

2. Fill your mind with God’s Word  

Jesus fought with Scripture, not emotion.  

A neglected Word leads to a vulnerable life.  

Psalm 119:11

3. Walk in the Spirit  

Galatians 5:16  

Victory is not willpower—it is surrender and dependence.

4. Remove opportunity  

Joseph fled. He did not negotiate.  

Sometimes obedience looks like distance, not dialogue.