Salvation From Known Sin--but Not From Temptation.
God can keep us from known sin, but not from temptation, and it is through temptation that we are tested and drawn closer to Him.
F.B. Meyer emphasizes that while God can protect us from known sin according to our understanding and light, He does not shield us from temptation. Temptation is a natural part of the Christian experience, and being tempted does not indicate a lack of holiness; rather, it suggests that one is a target for the devil. Meyer illustrates this by comparing temptation to boys avoiding orchards with sour apples, indicating that if one is not tempted, it may reflect a heart devoid of spiritual value. The sermon encourages believers to recognize the distinction between temptation and sin, and to remain vigilant in their faith.
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Still, up to the limit of our light God can keep us from known sin. I will say that again: up to the limit of our light--twilight, morning, noon--up to the limit of our light God is able to keep us from all conscious and known sin. But He will not keep us from temptation. You cannot help the devil knocking at the door, but you can help inviting him in to supper. You cannot help the foul vulture flying over your head, but you can help letting him make a nest in your hair.
When you live near God you will be most tempted of the devil. Some men seem to think they are not holy because they are tempted. I should not believe in a man's holiness if he were not tempted.
When I was at school, the boys used to avoid certain orchards, because they were full of crab apples; and you might know that the apples in those orchards were sour, or the boys would go for them. And if you are not tempted, it shows that your heart is empty and wicked, and not worth the Devil's time to spend over it.
Sermon Outline
- God's Ability to Keep Us from Known Sin points: null
- Limitations of God's Protection points: null
- Temptation and the Devil's Influence points: null
- The Relationship Between Holiness and Temptation points: null
- The Consequences of a Wicked Heart points: null
Key Quotes
“You cannot help the devil knocking at the door, but you can help inviting him in to supper.” — F.B. Meyer
“You cannot help the foul vulture flying over your head, but you can help letting him make a nest in your hair.” — F.B. Meyer
“If you are not tempted, it shows that your heart is empty and wicked, and not worth the Devil's time to spend over it.” — F.B. Meyer
Application Points
- We must be aware of our own vulnerabilities and take steps to protect ourselves from sin.
- Temptation is an opportunity for growth and intimacy with God, and we should not be afraid to face it.
- Living near God means being in a close and intimate relationship with Him, where we are aware of His presence and guidance in our lives.