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Up-to-the-minute jumping-off points for sermons, linking the reading to the latest news and global issues

 

Until an opportune time

Although Jesus withstands various temptations in Luke 4:1-13 it’s tempting for us to overlook v.13.

 

Context 

 

Ideas for sermons or interactive talks

Think of it! Turning stones into bread could solve world hunger! But it would require Jesus to give up personal agency and to hand over his will to the Tempter or “devil” (Greek diabolos). The biblical understanding of diabolos is as one who 'accuses', 'slanders', 'misleads', 'bends the truth'. A word of caution here, because it is too easy for us to assume that everything diabolic is the work of the devil whereas, according to Scripture, the devil (diabolos) is merely the one who entices, tempts, gets the ball rolling, as it were, while it is we human beings who do the dirty work.

The term diabolos itself is rooted in the verb diaballo 'to throw apart' or 'divide'. The devil merely throws apart, divides intent from outcome, spoken word from action. There is nothing of the truth in the diabolic. Its opposite is the symbolic, from the Greek symballo, a verb which can mean: 'to bring together, to unite, to contract friendly relations, to do one's part or be useful'. One could hardly find a greater contrast with 'diabolic’. This author can find no greater example of the symbolic versus the diabolic than in the words and deeds of Donald Trump: the NATO alliance is divided, allies and trading partners are discarded, countries are threatened with invasion or annexation.

The lust for unlimited power has vexed humanity forever. We find it in ancient near-eastern myths such as Anzu, Goethe’s poem Der Zauberlehring (popularised in the music of Paul Dukas as The Sorcerer’s Apprentice in Disney’s film Fantasia), The Lord of the Rings and more. And, of course, it is being played out in America and Russia at this very moment. What we learn from Luke 4:1-13 is that the Tempter never ceases and always waits “until an opportune time.” The moment in which we think we have the Tempter beaten is the very opportune moment for us to succumb to temptation.

 

Questions for discussion

Revd Dr Jack Lawson is a freelance writer and novelist: Doing Time, No Good Deed, Criminal Justice, The Woods and Dirty Business. His newest novel, Joab, (Wipf & Stock) is based on the life of King David. For more information visit: www.jacknlawson.com; https://jacknlawson.com/blog; https://wingsepress.com/pages/lawson-jack-n

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Check-in

Connecting faith with everyday, real-life issues for young people

This week began the season of Lent, a time when many people, Christian or not, challenge themselves by giving up something for 40 days. While many give up things like chocolate or meat, more young people are choosing to give up social media, a significant challenge in today’s world. Social media has become a constant distraction and a source of news. So, how does one survive without it?

The truth is, people have thrived without social media before. Taking a break can help us reconnect with ourselves, others and, most importantly, with God. By disconnecting, we create space for reflection and meaningful connections.

Temptation will come — whether it’s to check social media or indulge in old habits — but it’s essential to remember why we committed to this season. We are not alone.

Jesus, when tempted in the desert, showed us the strength of resisting temptation through scripture. He reminds us that we’re never truly alone; He is with us and has placed us in a supportive community. In this season of sacrifice, we don’t just survive — we thrive, growing stronger in faith and connection.

 

Questions

  • What temptations do you face in your daily life, and how do they compare with the temptations Jesus faced in the desert?
  • Jesus spent 40 days in the desert, disconnected from the world. How do you think disconnecting from things like social media or other distractions can help us grow spiritually?
  • Why do you think Jesus chose to fast for 40 days in the desert? How does this relate to the idea of giving something up during Lent or a season of sacrifice?
  • What makes it hard to stick to commitments, like giving up something for Lent? How can the example of Jesus resisting temptation help you persevere when things get tough?
  • When Jesus was tempted, He responded with scripture. Why do you think it’s important for us to rely on God’s Word when we’re facing challenges or temptations?
  • What does it mean to “thrive” through challenges like Lent? How can you use this time to grow closer to God and develop strength?
  • How can remembering that Jesus overcame temptation in the desert help you feel empowered to face your own struggles?
  • How can the lessons from Jesus’ time in the desert guide you in times of spiritual dryness or challenge?
  • What areas of your life do you feel God is calling you to grow in during this Lenten season? How can the story of Jesus in the desert inspire you to thrive in these areas?
  • Jesus faced His temptation alone in the desert, but He also built a community of followers. How can the support of a faith community help you resist temptation and grow stronger in your faith?
  • When you're tempted or struggling, who in your life can you turn to for support, and how can they help you stay focused on God?

Emmanuel Chiweshe is an associate leader for Reach Nottingham, a multi-site church.

 

Views expressed are the authors' own. Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by Roots for Churches Ltd.

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