What 1 Corinthians 10:13 Teaches About Temptation
1 Corinthians 10:13
To better understand the teachings of 1 Corinthians 10:13 [NKJV] about
temptation, we need to think about its great truths...
"No temptation has overtaken you except such as
is common to man" - No person except Jesus Christ has ever faced any
unique temptations - He was the unique Son of God (Matthew 4:1-11)! The
temptations that we encounter are the same kinds which trouble other human
beings (1 Peter 5:8-9).
"but God is faithful" - God does not lie;
He always tells the truth (Numbers 23:18-19). He, therefore, always keeps all of
His promises (Deuteronomy 7:9-10). That faithfulness includes what is stated in
this verse about us being able to overcome temptation!
"who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what
you are able" - God has set limits on the power of Satan in tempting us
(Psalms 103:11-14; Job 1:6-2:10). Therefore, Satan cannot set any temptation
before us which is impossible for us to resist.
"but with the temptation will also make the way
of escape" - We need to remember that God is smarter and stronger than
Satan (1 John 4:4). Hence, no matter what Satan uses to tempt us, God provides
an "escape route" so that we can avoid giving in to that temptation (2 Peter
2:4-9).
"that you may be able to bear it" - With
God's help, it is possible for us to "bear" [bear up under; endure] every
temptation sent by Satan. Jesus Christ certainly did (John 8:29; Hebrews
4:14-16)!
1 Corinthians 10:13 is a wonderful promise about overcoming temptation! Such
help from God is one of the many spiritual blessings available to all who are
"in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3). Are you included in that blessed number (Galatians
3:26-27)?
By John David Powlas
From Expository Files 15.4; April 2008
