The Three Sources That Lead People Into Sin
Ephesians 2:1-3-And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.
Some in the world go to extremes regarding accountability for sin. For example, some blame their personal sin on anyone and everyone but themselves. “The devil made me do it” is a common expression one hears in this category . On the other hand, some deny that the devil and his forces do anything at all in the world. In truth, the Bible identifies three sources that would lead humanity into sin: the devil, the world, and the flesh.
Arnold writes:
“In this book the focus on the theme of principalities and powers could lead one to believe Paul gave a demonological root to all evil. That is not the case. Paul’s view of the nature of evil influence on people is very balanced. In Ephesians 2:1-3, Paul describes sinful behavior as stemming from three compelling influences-to be seen as three strands combining to make one sturdy cable. This cable tightly binds unbelievers, keeping them in slavery to the kingdom of darkness. It may be helpful to depict these three sources of evil influence graphically: 1. The World: “the ways of this world” 2. The Devil: “the ruler of the kingdom of the air” “the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient” 3. The Flesh: “the cravings of our sinful nature … its desires and thoughts” In simplest terms we might categorize these influences as “the world, the devil and the flesh.” (Clinton E. Arnold, Powers of Darkness: Principalities & Powers in Paul’s Letters, 1439-1445 (Kindle Edition): Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press)
What do we do when we are tempted to sin?
First, watch and pray!
Mark 14:38-Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Second, resist!
James 4:7-Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
Third, flee temptation via the way of escape!
1 Corinthians 10:13-No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
Fourth, do your best to make amends to others you have sinned against.
Matthew 5:23-24-Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
No matter the source of your temptation, you have the strength in Christ to overcome. If and when you fail in your struggle against temptation and sin, repent and confess it to the Lord and keep trying to do better.
Hebrews 4:15-16-For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Father, thank You for Your Word that gives us the guidance we need to stand against sin. Forgive us when we fall short, help us to do better in the future then we have in the past, and lead us to make amends to others that we have sinned against. We need you! Please draw near to us as we draw near to You. Amen.