Sermon Notes and CG Questions - 2/28/10

Prayer prepares you to face temptation.

Fail to pray; prepare to fall.

There is a progression to sin:

When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

– James 1:13-15

Temptation is an intricately prepared atta ck by a powerful enemy.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. – John 10:10

We have to ask God for hel p . . . before temptation hits.

See Luke 22:31-35; 39-46 (Page 732)

Your best intention s cannot carry you through the severest trials – you have to learn to pra y.

HOW CAN YOU PREPARE TO FACE TEMPTATION?

1. You have to be aware of temptation and alert to Satan’s schemes.

KNOW YOURSEL F.

o Where are you wea k? Where do you struggle?

o Whe n are you weak? Are you Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired?

o How are you tempted? What is the mediu m that introduces it?

2. Pray and prepare before temptation hits.

PREPARE DAIL Y.

o Put on your armo r every morning. (See Ephesians 6:10-18)

o Pray through your da y.

o Pray before difficult situation s.

o Send up an S.O. ..

COMMUNITY GROUP QUESTIONS

To prepare for group this week, listen to the sermon and take notes. Then read Ephesians 6:10-18 and answer the following questions:

1. What are some of your favorite Halloween or dress up costumes? (Either for you or your kids) Why those?

2. As you reflect on Sunday’s sermon, what one principle or insight stands out as being particularly helpful, insightful, or difficult to grasp?

3. Look back at Eph. 1:19-21. Where is Jesus now? How powerful is he? How does this instill hope in Christians as we encounter the evil forces described here?

4. With what attitudes should we face these forces? How does prayer fit into this battle?

5. What does Paul mean by each of the six pieces of armor (vs. 14-17)? What is the purpose of each? Which are defensive? Which are offensive?

6. As you consider your armor, what parts are in good shape? What is moldy and rusty? What do you need to do to get ready for battle?

7. Paul was on the front lines of the battle (v. 20). What evidence do you see of the battle in your life? Your church? Your community? Your nation? The world? What would it mean to “stand” in these particular battlefields?

8. What can you learn from Paul’s prayers (1:16-18; 3:14-19; 6:19-20) about your prayers for others in your small group?

9. How can we pray for you this week?