The Devil's Sos: Suggest, Offer, Suggest Series

Sermon Title: The Devil's SOS: Suggest, Offer, Suggest

Opening Passage: Luke 4:1-13

Introduction:

Friends, as we bask in the afterglow of Christmas, our hearts filled with the joy of the season, it's easy to forget that even the Son of God faced trials. In the wilderness, after the jubilant proclamation of his baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into a season of intense testing. It wasn't a cozy Christmas Eve by the fireside; it was a desert battle against the whispers of the enemy.

The devil, in his desperation, sent out an SOS – a series of signals designed to derail God's plan. He employed a cunning strategy: Suggest, Offer, Suggest.

I. The First Suggest: Abuse of Power

The first Suggest came when the tempter, sensing Jesus's hunger after forty days of fasting, slyly proposed, "You're hungry, aren't you, Son of God? Use your divine power, turn these stones into bread. Satisfy that hunger, enjoy the comfort." (Luke 4:3) This wasn't merely about a simple snack; it was a cunning attempt to tempt Jesus to abuse his power, authority, and position for his own personal gain. It was about convincing Jesus to prioritize immediate pleasure over the Father's plan.

But Jesus, drawing from the very depths of his being, responded, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" (Matthew 4:4) He knew, as we should, that true sustenance comes not from earthly pleasures, but from the nourishment of God's Word, a Word that promises abundant life, not just for the present moment, but for eternity.

We face this "Suggest" daily. "You're tired, stressed, overworked," the voice whispers. "Cut corners, indulge, find the easy way out." But just as Jesus resisted, we are called to patiently wait upon the Lord, knowing that his timing, his provision, is always perfect, just as He promised, "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)

II. The Second Offer: Worldly Temptation

Then came the Offer. "Look at the world spread out before you," the tempter boasted. "All this power, all this glory, all this influence – yours for the taking. Just bow down to me, and it's all yours." (Luke 4:5-7) This wasn't about a mere promotion; it was about a soul-crushing bargain. It was about trading eternal life for fleeting fame.

But Jesus, with unwavering resolve, declared, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'" (Matthew 4:10) He knew that true power and glory come not from earthly dominion, but from the unwavering devotion to the One True King, the King who had already promised him all the kingdoms of the world (Matthew 28:18) and far more – eternal life and the joy of reigning with Him forever.

We encounter this "Offer" constantly. "Success, wealth, recognition," the world screams. "Chase them, grasp them, let nothing stand in your way." But just as Jesus chose hope in the kingdom of God over the fleeting kingdoms of this world, we too must choose hope in the enduring joy of serving God and others, knowing that God has already promised us far greater treasures – eternal life, joy unspeakable, and a glorious inheritance.

III. The Third Suggest: Testing God

Finally, the third Suggest. "Prove yourself, Son of God," the tempter urged. "Leap from this temple, let the angels catch you. Demonstrate your faith, show the world your power." (Luke 4:9) This wasn't about a daring feat; it was about a dangerous gamble. It was about tempting God, about testing his love.

But Jesus, with unwavering trust, responded, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test." (Matthew 4:7) He knew that God is faithful, that His promises are sure, and that true faith rests not on spectacular displays, but on unwavering trust in the character and love of the Father.

We face this "Suggest" in our doubts and fears. "Why is this happening to me, God?" we cry. "Where are you in my suffering?" But just as Jesus trusted in the Father's plan, we must trust in God's unwavering love and guidance, even when the path is shrouded in mist, remembering that God has already promised to be with us always, to never leave us nor forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5)

IV. Overcoming the SOS

Friends, the devil's SOS – Suggest, Offer, Suggest – is a persistent reality. But armed with the example of our Savior, we can overcome. We can choose patience over instant pleasure, hope over worldly ambition, and unwavering trust over self-doubt.

This Christmas season, let us remember the wilderness battle and renew our commitment to resist the devil's cunning ploys. Let us choose the path of faith, the path of love, the path that leads to eternal joy, just as Jesus did.