Title: Victory's Path
Content Title: Path of Victory
Bible: Matthew 4:1-11
Matthew 4 is often referred to as “the trial field”. However, the content of Matthew 4 emphasizes victory rather than temptation. In this respect, I would like to call it "Victory Ground" rather than "Test Ground". Our Lord was tempted, but he never fell into temptation or sinned through temptation. Hebrews 4:15 says, “He was tempted, yet without sin”. It's not about being tested, it's about how you win. In today's text, we learn that the secret to victory is
First, is it urgent or important? (Verses 2-4)
The cause of the temptation Jesus suffered is also the cause of the temptation we face today. Verse 2 says, “After fasting forty days and forty days, he became hungry.” There is a problem in getting into the exam, not the exam itself. That is why the Lord taught us to pray, "Lead us not into temptation. Please note that I am not asking you to pray, "Do not lead me into temptation," but to pray that you will not fall into temptation.
Hebrews 12:16 defines Esau's behavior as "worse, as Esau, who sold his birthright for a bowl of food." So what's important? It is to live according to the Word (verse 4). When the Word becomes the center of our lives, we can walk the path of victory.
Second, is it right or fast? (Verses 5-7)
After failing the first test, Satan changes his strategy and attacks again. Satan puts Jesus on top of the temple and tells him to jump down. Just because you win a test once doesn't mean you've won completely. Satan is persistently approaching the robbery of God's children by any means and methods. Satan's intention is to jump down deliberately to gain glory and popularity, and in this sense he is quoting the Bible. However, our Lord, who knew the will of God, knew that the meaning of the word meant God's help in saving us from the sufferings of our enemies in an unavoidable situation. So Jesus shattered Satan's intentions by quoting other words. “It is also written, Thou shalt not put the Lord thy God to the test.” How wonderful is the answer?
Third, is it compromise or determination? (Verses 8-11)
The important thing that believers who want to live a victorious life should remember is Satan's persistent attack. Satan does not stop attacking just because he tries once or twice and fails. If possible, you should know that they are going around to deceive even the chosen ones. Satan's third strategy was compromise. The whole kingdom of heaven and its glory! But what about heaven? Satan will give you everything, so he tells him to bow down and worship him. Satan's strategy is to make the soul his own, even if he gives everything. But God wants to take everything from us and save the soul. Therefore, there should be no concession or retreat for Satan.
Dear brothers and sisters, remember that we can only fail in our own strength without the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and I hope you will go on the path of victory for the rest of your life.