Sunday School Lesson May 21, 2023
Subject: The Strength to Stand Against Temptation
The Point: God equips us to stand our ground against temptation.
Scriptures: Ephesians 6:10-18
Study The Bible: Ephesians 6:10-13
1). Standing against temptation is a spiritual battle.
- Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength.
- Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil.
- For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens.
- For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.
Lasting truths from: Ephesians 6:10-13
* Believers are engaged in a spiritual battle.
* Believers must find their strength in the Lord.
* Believers need to take a stand against Satan’s temptations.
2). Standing against temptation necessitates God-given equipment.
Ephesians 6:14-16
- Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest,
- and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace.
- In every situation take up the shied of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Lasting truths from: Ephesians 6:14-16
* Believers should ready themselves for spiritual battle with God’s truth and righteousness.
* Believers should be ready to share the gospel and the peace it brings.
* Placing our faith in God helps us withstand Satan’s attacks.
3). Standing against temptation requires God’s Word and prayer.
Ephesians 6:17-18
- Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit — which is the word of God.
- Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.
Lasting truth from: Ephesians 6:17-18
* God’s Word is a sword that cuts through temptation.
* We should maintain a constant practice of prayer.
* Our prayer should include interceding for other believers.
Live It Out
As you reflect on this session, respond to the following questions:
- How can knowing we are engaged in a spiritual battle actually provide encouragement as we face temptation?
- With what pieces of “the full armor of God” (Eph. 6:11) are you most familiar? As you read the passage, would you say any of these items is lacking in your arsenal against temptation?
- Why do God’s Word and persistent prayer prove so effective against temptation? Reflect on Psalm 119:11 and James 5:16.
Closing Prayer:
“Dear God, I know I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died on the cross to forgive me of my sins and rose from the dead to give me new life. I’m sorry for all the wrong I’ve done and ask You to forgive me. I now accept Your gift of eternal life. Thank You for Your love, forgiveness, and a new life in Jesus Christ. From this day forward, I choose to follow You. In Jesus’ name Amen.”