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  THEN WAS JESUS LED UP OF THE SPIRIT INTO THE WILDERNESS
  by C.H. Spurgeon
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Summary: Even the most consecrated Christians can still be tempted by
Satan, and we must remain watchful and vigilant to protect ourselves.

Topics: "Spiritual Vigilance", "Temptation"
Scripture References: Matthew 4:1

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C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that even a holy character does not shield one
from temptation, as demonstrated by Jesus being led into the wilderness
and tempted by Satan. He illustrates that while Christ faced temptation
without succumbing, believers should expect relentless attacks from the
enemy, regardless of their spiritual state. Spurgeon warns that solitude
does not provide immunity from temptation, and even the most consecrated
individuals can experience dark thoughts and trials. He encourages
Christians to remain vigilant and armored against the devil's schemes,
as the enemy will exploit any moment of weakness. Ultimately, Spurgeon
calls for constant watchfulness and reliance on God for protection from
temptation.

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CONTENT
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A Holy character does not avert temptation--Jesus was tempted. When
Satan tempts us, his sparks fall upon tinder; but in Christ's case, it
was like striking sparks on water; yet the enemy continued his evil
work. Now, if the devil goes on striking when there is no result, how
much more will he do it when he knows what inflammable stuff our hearts
are made of. Though you become greatly sanctified by the Holy Ghost,
expect that the great dog of hell will bark at you still. In the haunts
of men we expect to be tempted, but even seclusion will not guard us
from the same trial.

Jesus Christ was led away from human society into the wilderness, and
was tempted of the devil. Solitude has its charms and its benefits, and
may be useful in checking the lust of the eye and the pride of life; but
the devil will follow us into the most lovely retreats. Do not suppose
that it is only the worldly-minded who have dreadful thoughts and
blasphemous temptations, for even spiritual-minded persons endure the
same; and in the holiest position we may suffer the darkest temptation.

The utmost consecration of spirit will not insure you against Satanic
temptation. Christ was consecrated through and through. It was His meat
and drink to do the will of Him that sent Him: and yet He was tempted!
Your hearts may glow with a seraphic flame of love to Jesus, and yet the
devil will try to bring you down to Laodicean lukewarmness. If you will
tell me when God permits a Christian to lay aside his armour, I will
tell you when Satan has left off temptation. Like the old knights in war
time, we must sleep with helmet and breastplate buckled on, for the
arch-deceiver will seize our first unguarded hour to make us his prey.
The Lord keep us watchful in all seasons, and give us a final escape
from the jaw of the lion and the paw of the bear.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ch-spurgeon/then-was-jesus-led-up-of-the-spirit-into-the-wilderness/
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