Biblical Living

Standing firm against temptation and spiritual opposition

How does God equip me to face temptation and stand firm against spiritual opposition?

God gives you help to remain faithful when temptation and spiritual opposition press upon you. Jesus knows the reality of testing and brings his people to God for mercy and strength. Seek his help, attend to his word, refuse what draws you into sin and stand with fellow believers in the truth and hope he supplies.

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Scripture speaks about trials that test faith, desires that entice toward sin and a spiritual enemy who opposes God’s people. These can meet within one struggle, but each passage helps us understand what is happening and how to respond. The teaching begins with Christ’s help and moves into the prayer, trust and obedience through which his people stand firm.

Seek the help Jesus gives when you are tempted

You can bring temptation to Jesus with an honest request for help. Hebrews 4:14–16 calls believers to hold firmly to their confession of him and come to God for mercy and grace. The reason is personal: Jesus, the Son of God, knows human weakness and has faced testing without sin. Your need for help is already recognized in the invitation. Turn to him while the pressure is present, trusting that he understands and is able to help you obey.

Hebrews 2:14–18 explains why that confidence is well founded. Jesus shared our flesh and blood, passed through death, and broke the devil’s power over those held in slavery by fear of death. He became a merciful and faithful high priest, making reconciliation for his people’s sins. A high priest represents people before God; Jesus’ work addresses the sin that separates them from him. Verse 18 then says that because Jesus suffered when tempted, he can help those being tempted. The KJV’s “succour” means help. The Savior who gives that help has entered the costly human struggle himself.

His sinlessness matters to this assurance. Hebrews 4:15 affirms both the reality of his testing and his freedom from sin. Being confronted with an invitation to evil does not by itself mean that you have committed the evil. Nor must you first overcome by yourself before approaching him. Hebrews 4:12–13 says that God sees even the thoughts and intentions of the heart; verses 14–16 direct the person known so fully toward his throne of grace. Come truthfully, ready for both mercy and correction.

The Lord you seek also has authority greater than the powers that oppose you. Ephesians 1:19–23 points to God’s power in raising Jesus and seating him above every rule, authority and dominion. This is the foundation for Christian confidence in spiritual conflict. Give your attention first to the risen Christ, his saving work and his faithful care, and receive the instruction through which he teaches you to stand.

Further study: Amy L. B. Peeler

Recognize the difference between testing, sinful desire and spiritual opposition

Ask God for wisdom about the pressure you are facing. In James 1:2–4, the KJV word “temptations” refers to varied trials in which faith is tested. James gives a reason for joy: continuing to trust God can produce endurance and mature character. He then directs anyone lacking wisdom to ask the generous God (James 1:5–8). James 1:12 also promises the crown of life to those who love God and endure. Seek his wisdom and persevere in what is right, with the life he promises in view, even while the difficulty remains painful.

James 1:13–15 addresses something different within that experience: being drawn toward evil. God does not entice anyone to sin. James traces the attraction through a person’s own desire: it draws and entices, conceives and gives birth to sin, and sin reaches its destructive outcome in death. His birth imagery asks you to notice where a desire is leading while it still presents itself as something worth having. Acknowledge desires that would turn you from God, and refuse to nourish the wrong they seek.

This distinction calls for honesty about the heart as well as conduct. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:27–28 identifies a look directed toward lust as adultery in the heart. Sin therefore need not wait for an outward act; deliberately embracing an evil desire can itself be wrongdoing. The forceful eye-and-hand imagery in Matthew 5:29–30 calls for decisive action against what leads to sin. Since Jesus has located the wrong in the heart, bodily injury would not remove its source. Attend to what you are welcoming and pursuing, and turn from the desire and conduct that oppose God’s instruction. Jesus’ own sinless testing gives reason to distinguish being confronted by temptation from consenting to it.

Spiritual opposition is also real, but it is not simply another name for every desire or difficulty. Matthew 4:1 identifies the Spirit as the one who leads Jesus into the wilderness and the devil as the tempter there. The setting of a test and the evil purpose of a tempter can be distinguished even within one event. James 1:16–18 directs confidence toward the Father who gives good gifts and brings forth life through the word of truth. Trust his goodness as you resist whatever invites disobedience.

Attend to the distinctions the biblical accounts themselves make. Mark 1:29–34 describes a fever, other illnesses and people possessed by devils, without treating every sick person as possessed. Luke 13:10–17 does connect one woman’s long affliction with Satan, and Jesus argues that she should be released, even on the Sabbath. That particular explanation should be received as given; it does not supply a diagnosis for every illness. Both accounts direct attention to Jesus’ authority and compassionate help. Respond to suffering with care, prayer and trust rather than an assumed hidden explanation.

Further study: I-Jin Loh and Howard A. Hatton

Let Scripture direct your trust and obedience

Jesus’ wilderness obedience shows what it means to trust the Father under pressure. The Father has already acknowledged him as his beloved Son in Matthew 3:16–17. After forty days of fasting, the devil challenges him to turn stones into bread (Matthew 4:1–4). Jesus answers from Deuteronomy 8:3: life depends on what comes from God. Deuteronomy 8:1–6 recalls God allowing Israel to hunger and then feeding them with manna, teaching them to depend on him. God’s gift of food establishes his care for bodily needs. Jesus receives that care in obedient dependence on the Father, refusing the tempter’s direction.

The next temptation uses a genuine biblical promise for a false purpose. In Matthew 4:5–7, the devil urges Jesus to throw himself from the temple and quotes the promise of angelic protection from Psalm 91:11–12. Yet Psalm 91:1–2 describes trusting God as refuge, and Psalm 91:14–15 speaks of loving him, calling on him and his presence in trouble. The proposed leap turns trust into a demand that God demonstrate his protection on the tempter’s terms.

Jesus answers with Deuteronomy 6:16, which forbids testing God as Israel did at Massah. Exodus 17:1–7 explains that event: the people’s quarrel over water reached the question whether the LORD was among them at all, even as he provided for them. Deuteronomy 6:16–19 calls them instead to keep his commands and do what is right. Jesus receives God’s promise within that obedience. Use Scripture in the same way: understand the trust or action a passage actually calls for, and let its meaning govern your response.

In Matthew 4:8–11, the devil offers the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship. Jesus refuses by appealing to exclusive service of the Lord, the allegiance taught in Deuteronomy 6:13–15. A desirable outcome cannot justify giving another the worship owed to God. The account ends with the devil leaving and angels ministering to Jesus. It displays the Son’s faithful obedience in his particular calling and gives disciples a clear direction: worship God, trust his provision and obey his word when another path offers immediate gain.

Give that word a lasting place in your attention. Psalm 119:9–16 connects a clean path with wholehearted seeking, treasured instruction, meditation and delight. The writer also asks God to keep him from wandering and to teach him. Remembering Scripture serves this responsive relationship: learn what it says, consider its reasons, ask for help, and do the good it teaches. Jesus’ answers show the value of Scripture understood and obeyed; the devil’s quotation shows why merely repeating a verse is not enough.

Further study: Judith Jones

Trust God’s provision and take the way of obedience

God’s faithfulness gives you a reason to act when temptation presses. First Corinthians 10:1–5 recalls how Israel shared deliverance through the sea and God’s provision in the wilderness, yet many fell under judgment. Paul names idolatry, sexual wrongdoing, testing Christ and grumbling in verses 6–10, then says these events were written to instruct the church. His conclusion in verse 12 calls anyone confident of standing to take care. Spiritual privileges and past faithfulness are reasons for gratitude, while present obedience still deserves serious attention.

The promise in 1 Corinthians 10:13 answers that need with hope. The temptation is human, not something that places the Corinthians outside God’s faithful care. God limits it and provides a way of escape so that they can bear it. The verse holds escape and endurance together: his provision enables faithfulness under pressure. It does not promise that every sorrow will fit within your unaided strength. Paul himself describes affliction beyond his strength in 2 Corinthians 1:8–11, where dependence shifts to the God who raises the dead and help includes others’ prayers.

Paul immediately makes the faithful response concrete: flee idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14–22). He explains that sharing the Lord’s cup and bread expresses participation in Christ and belonging together as his body. Pagan sacrificial meals likewise involve a religious participation that is incompatible with the Lord’s table. God’s promised help therefore supports a decisive refusal to join that worship. Receive his provision by taking the obedient course the passage makes clear.

Joseph’s experience shows that leaving temptation can itself require courage. In Genesis 39:7–12, he refuses his master’s wife because the act would betray a trust and be sin against God. When she seizes his garment, he leaves it and flees. Genesis 39:13–23 then records a false accusation, imprisonment and the LORD’s continuing presence with him there. His escape from committing the wrong did not spare him every loss. Follow the obedience his refusal illustrates, entrusting the cost to God.

Resistance also involves what you deliberately make room for. Romans 13:8–14 joins love of neighbor with living in the light and refusing to make provision for sinful desire. Give your choices that direction before temptation gathers strength. Galatians 5:13–26 explains the positive life to pursue: use freedom to serve in love, walk by the Spirit, and cultivate his fruit, including patience and self-control. The aim of refusing sin is a life increasingly available for God’s good work.

Further study: Shively Smith

Ask for protection and remain watchful

Make protection from temptation part of your regular prayer. In Matthew 6:9–13, Jesus teaches disciples to seek the Father’s honor, kingdom and will, then ask for daily bread, forgiveness and deliverance from evil. The request concerning temptation belongs within a desire to do his will. Ask him to keep you from the trial that would overwhelm you, to rescue you from evil and to sustain faithful obedience. James 1:13 makes clear that the Father you ask does not entice you to sin.

Matthew 6:13 can also be understood as asking deliverance from the evil one. Both renderings have substantial support, and either directs the request to God as protector. The prayer gives you words of dependence without requiring that you first identify every hidden cause of your struggle. Bring the danger you recognize to your Father, whose knowledge of your need Jesus has already affirmed in Matthew 6:8.

Watchfulness means taking your vulnerability seriously enough to pray and respond. Peter confidently promises that he will never deny Jesus in Matthew 26:33–35. In Gethsemane, however, the disciples repeatedly sleep while Jesus prays, and he tells them to watch and pray because their willing spirit is accompanied by weak flesh (Matthew 26:36–46). Their sincere intention needs the help they have been told to seek. Attend to the pressure on your allegiance, acknowledge your weakness and ask for strength before relying on resolve alone.

Jesus himself brings sorrow and his desire for relief to the Father, yet yields to the Father’s will (Matthew 26:39–44). His prayer leads into obedience through suffering. Luke 22:31–34 pictures Satan seeking to sift the disciples like wheat—to shake their allegiance through testing. Jesus prays that Peter’s faith will not fail and directs him, after returning, to strengthen his brothers. Prayer for endurance is therefore supported by the care of Christ himself. Pray for your own faithfulness and for others who are under pressure, trusting the Lord who intercedes and calls his people to continue.

Further study: Barclay M. Newman and Philip C. Stine · Bob Utley

Resist the devil by drawing near to God

Give God your allegiance in the desires and relationships where the struggle is taking place. James 4:1–3 traces the community’s quarrels to desires at war within them: they crave, compete and even ask God for what they intend to spend on their pleasures. James 4:4 calls this compromised allegiance friendship with a world opposed to God. His concern is the purpose governing their conduct. Let God correct what you seek and how you treat the people around you.

James 4:6–10 answers their divided hearts with grace and a connected set of actions: humble yourselves, submit to God, resist the devil and draw near to God. Submission means receiving God’s authority over the very conduct James has exposed. Resistance means refusing the devil’s opposition to that allegiance. The promise that the devil will flee gives courage to resist; it does not require a formula of words or a claim to personal power. The person resisting is also drawing near to the God who gives grace.

The call to cleanse hands and purify hearts in James 4:8–10 makes repentance part of that resistance. Hands point to what they do; hearts to the divided loyalty behind it. Mourning recognizes the seriousness of the wrong they have been treating lightly, while the promise that God will lift up the humble gives their return hope. James 1:19–27 then gives obedience an ordinary shape: receive the word, act on it, govern speech and care for the vulnerable. Resist evil by returning to the good God has made known.

Ephesians 4:25–32 makes the same connection within the church’s life. Speak truth because you belong to one another, deal with anger without sin, and give no place to the devil. The paragraph continues with honest work, words that help, kindness, compassion and forgiveness grounded in God’s forgiveness through Christ. These are substantial acts of resistance: abandon conduct that gives destructive anger and deceit room to work, and practice the love that belongs to Christ’s people.

Further study: I-Jin Loh and Howard A. Hatton

Stand with the truth, faith and salvation God supplies

God equips his people to remain faithful through truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation and his word, sustained by prayer. Ephesians 6:10–13 tells the church to be strong in the Lord’s power and to stand against the devil’s schemes. Paul identifies the enemy in this struggle as spiritual powers of evil. The church’s response must therefore be directed by the spiritual equipment he supplies. Paul describes God’s provision as armor because his people face serious resistance and need to be fully prepared. The central action is to stand firm in the life Christ has given them.

The image has a biblical history that explains whose strength they receive. In Isaiah 59:15–17, justice has failed and no adequate human rescuer intervenes, so the LORD acts with his own righteousness and salvation, pictured as breastplate and helmet. Ephesians 6:14–17 places corresponding equipment on God’s people. Ephesians 2:4–10 has already explained that their life and salvation come from God’s mercy and grace, with good works as the resulting calling. They take up what he supplies and act in dependence on him.

Ephesians 6:14 begins with truth and righteousness. A belt secures a person for action, and a breastplate protects the body; the realities that equip the believer are the truth received in Christ and a life made right under God’s rule. Ephesians 4:20–25 links learning Christ with renewal, righteousness and speaking truth. Receive the gospel honestly, let it correct deception, and practice the truthful and upright conduct it teaches. God’s saving gift and the obedience it produces belong together here.

The footwear in Ephesians 6:15 concerns readiness associated with the gospel of peace. The picture can emphasize firm footing supplied by that good news or readiness to carry it to others. Ephesians 2:13–18 explains the peace itself: Christ’s cross reconciles people to God and joins formerly hostile Jews and Gentiles in one body with access to the Father. Stand securely in that reconciliation, ready to live and speak in its service. Both the call to stand and the concern for gospel witness belong to Ephesians 6:10–20.

Faith is pictured as a shield that extinguishes the evil one’s burning arrows (Ephesians 6:16). Depend on God’s truth and faithfulness when an attack would draw you away from him. Verse 17 then names salvation as a helmet. First Thessalonians 5:8–11 uses the same helmet image for the hope of salvation and grounds that hope in Jesus’ death so that his people may live with him. Hold to what the Lord has done and promised, and encourage one another with that future. The strength of this confidence rests in the Lord who has saved you and remains faithful.

The sword of the Spirit is God’s word (Ephesians 6:17). God’s truth equips his people to answer falsehood and remain obedient; it is given by his Spirit. Ephesians 6:18 immediately joins this equipment to prayer on every occasion, with watchfulness and perseverance for all the saints. Receive the word attentively and keep bringing your own need and the church’s need to God. Taking up this equipment means continuing in these God-given realities through trust, obedience and prayer.

Paul asks that the church include him in those prayers so that he may speak the gospel boldly (Ephesians 6:19–20). He is still in chains while describing God’s equipment. That detail shows what the armor enables: faithful witness and endurance even when opposition has real consequences. Pray for those who make Christ known, support your fellow believers, and keep seeking truthful, righteous and peaceable obedience in the Lord’s strength.

Further study: Richard Carlson · Susan Hylen · Robert C. Bratcher and Eugene A. Nida

Examine teaching and treat people with Christ’s gentleness

Spiritual watchfulness includes examining what you are being taught about Christ. Second Corinthians 11:1–4 expresses Paul’s concern that the Corinthians may be drawn away from devotion to Christ by another Jesus, spirit or gospel. He compares the deception to the serpent’s deceiving Eve. In verses 13–15, deceptive apostles appear righteous, just as Satan appears as an angel of light. An impressive appearance therefore needs to be tested against the message of Christ actually received from his apostles.

First John 4:1–6 makes that examination explicit. Because false prophets have gone out, the church must test the spirits. John directs attention to confession of Jesus Christ come in the flesh and to hearing the apostolic testimony. The assurance that God is greater than the one in the world belongs to this resistance to false teaching. Hold to the truth about the real Jesus, and judge spiritual claims by their agreement with that witness.

Second Corinthians 10:1–6 also uses warfare imagery, but explains its targets: arguments and proud claims raised against the knowledge of God. Paul is defending his ministry and seeking obedience to Christ among the Corinthians. Bringing thought into captivity therefore begins here with the truth confronting ideas that oppose the gospel. Receive that correction in your own thinking. The passage does not identify every unwanted thought as a demon or supply a technique for controlling unseen powers.

The people caught in error still need patient care. In 2 Timothy 2:22–26, Timothy must flee sinful passions, pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace with other believers, and teach opponents gently. He hopes God will grant repentance and release from the devil’s snare. The spiritual seriousness of the problem gives reason for truthful, compassionate instruction. Ephesians 6:12 likewise distinguishes the spiritual enemy from flesh and blood. Stand firmly against falsehood while seeking the good and restoration of the person who opposes you.

Further study: Roger L. Omanson and Paul Ellingworth

Remain steadfast in faith with God’s people

Entrust yourself to God as you remain faithful under opposition. First Peter 4:12–19 addresses suffering for belonging to Christ, carefully distinguishing it from suffering for wrongdoing. Its direction is to commit your life to a faithful Creator and continue doing good. The call to resist the devil in the following chapter belongs within that allegiance. Continue in Christ’s ways when pressure would move you to abandon him.

First Peter 5:5–9 joins humility, the casting of cares on God and alertness. You can entrust anxiety to him because he cares, while remaining sober and attentive because the devil seeks to devour. The lion image communicates the seriousness of the danger; Peter explains the response as steadfast resistance in faith. He also reminds his readers that believers throughout the world share such sufferings. You are part of a people learning the same dependence, not left to sustain faith in isolation.

Give and receive encouragement that helps faith continue. Hebrews 3:7–19 recalls the wilderness generation’s hardened unbelief and calls believers to encourage one another daily so that sin does not deceive and harden them. Hear a truthful appeal, speak one with humility, and remain close enough to other believers for such help to be possible. Shared faithfulness includes warning, comfort and a readiness to be corrected.

Paul’s care for the Thessalonians gives this mutual help a concrete form. In 1 Thessalonians 3:1–8, he sends Timothy to strengthen their faith because he is concerned that affliction and the tempter may unsettle them. Timothy returns with good news of their faith and love, which in turn comforts Paul in his own distress. Paul then prays for their love to increase and their hearts to be established in holiness (1 Thessalonians 3:11–13). Take a fellow believer’s endurance seriously enough to encourage, pray and offer help, and receive the same care yourself.

Your hope rests in the God of all grace. First Peter 5:10–11 places present suffering beside the eternal glory to which he has called his people and his power to establish and strengthen them. Revelation 12:9–11 pictures the accuser defeated and God’s people overcoming through the Lamb’s blood and their faithful testimony, even at the cost of their lives. Victory is therefore deeper than immediate relief or earthly safety. Hold to Christ and continue to bear witness, looking toward the life his saving work secures.

Further study: Jeannine K. Brown

Return to Christ after failure and help others return

When you have yielded to sin, acknowledge it and return to God. First John 1:5–2:2 holds together a call to walk in the light, an honest confession that believers need cleansing, and the assurance that Jesus Christ the righteous is their advocate with the Father. John writes so that they will not sin, and also tells them where to turn when they do. His promise of forgiveness directs you toward truth and renewed obedience, which 1 John 2:3–6 describes as keeping Christ’s commands and walking as he walked.

Receive the help of the church with the same honesty. Galatians 6:1–5 calls spiritual believers to restore someone caught in a fault gently, watching themselves because they too can be tempted. Bearing another’s burden is compatible with taking responsibility for your own conduct. Seek faithful correction and prayer, and offer patient help when another person needs to return. The knowledge of your own weakness should make that help humble.

Failure need not become the end of faithful service. Jesus’ words to Peter in Luke 22:31–34 include both the coming denial and the instruction to strengthen his brothers after his return. Peter’s promised return is his particular story; it shows the restoring purpose of the Lord whose help believers are called to seek. Keep coming to the throne of grace described in Hebrews 4:14–16, receive mercy, and resume the obedience before you. Standing firm is a life of continuing dependence on Christ and response to his word.

Further study: Amy L. B. Peeler · Bob Utley

Read the related guide on practicing self-control in desires, words and conduct.

Read the passages

Scripture in context

44 contextual selections for this subject, including the passages cited above and further related reading. Every selected range is reproduced in full from the KJV. Context notes identify the setting and kind of evidence.

PARTICULAR_COVENANT_NARRATIVE 1 selections
Genesis 22:1–19 KJV

Context: The narrative identifies Abraham’s ordeal as God’s test, records God stopping the sacrifice of Isaac, and supplies a ram and renewed covenant promise.

22:1 And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am.

22:2 And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.

22:3 And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him.

22:4 Then on the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the place afar off.

22:5 And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you.

22:6 And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together.

22:7 And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?

22:8 And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.

22:9 And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood.

22:10 And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son.

22:11 And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I.

22:12 And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.

22:13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.

22:14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.

22:15 And the angel of the LORD called unto Abraham out of heaven the second time,

22:16 And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the LORD, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:

22:17 That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;

22:18 And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.

22:19 So Abraham returned unto his young men, and they rose up and went together to Beer-sheba; and Abraham dwelt at Beer-sheba.

NARRATIVE 5 selections
Genesis 39:1–23 KJV · In this guide

Context: Joseph serves in an Egyptian household, resists sexual wrongdoing, is falsely accused, and receives the LORD’s care in prison.

39:1 And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither.

39:2 And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.

39:3 And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand.

39:4 And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand.

39:5 And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field.

39:6 And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured.

39:7 And it came to pass after these things, that his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.

39:8 But he refused, and said unto his master’s wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand;

39:9 There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

39:10 And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her.

39:11 And it came to pass about this time, that Joseph went into the house to do his business; and there was none of the men of the house there within.

39:12 And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.

39:13 And it came to pass, when she saw that he had left his garment in her hand, and was fled forth,

39:14 That she called unto the men of her house, and spake unto them, saying, See, he hath brought in an Hebrew unto us to mock us; he came in unto me to lie with me, and I cried with a loud voice:

39:15 And it came to pass, when he heard that I lifted up my voice and cried, that he left his garment with me, and fled, and got him out.

39:16 And she laid up his garment by her, until his lord came home.

39:17 And she spake unto him according to these words, saying, The Hebrew servant, which thou hast brought unto us, came in unto me to mock me:

39:18 And it came to pass, as I lifted up my voice and cried, that he left his garment with me, and fled out.

39:19 And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled.

39:20 And Joseph’s master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king’s prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison.

39:21 But the LORD was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.

39:22 And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners that were in the prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it.

39:23 The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and that which he did, the LORD made it to prosper.

Exodus 17:1–7 KJV · In this guide

Context: Israel’s quarrel over water culminates in the question whether the LORD is among them, and in God’s provision from the rock.

17:1 And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink.

17:2 Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses said unto them, Why chide ye with me? wherefore do ye tempt the LORD?

17:3 And the people thirsted there for water; and the people murmured against Moses, and said, Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?

17:4 And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, What shall I do unto this people? they be almost ready to stone me.

17:5 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go.

17:6 Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.

17:7 And he called the name of the place Massah, and Meribah, because of the chiding of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the LORD, saying, Is the LORD among us, or not?

Matthew 3:13–17 KJV · In this guide

Context: Jesus receives baptism and the Father’s declaration before the wilderness testing.

3:13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

3:14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

3:15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

3:17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Matthew 4:1–11 KJV · In this guide

Context: The Spirit leads Jesus into the wilderness; the devil tests him before his public ministry begins.

4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.

4:2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.

4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

4:5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,

4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

4:7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

4:8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

4:9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

Mark 1:29–34 KJV · In this guide

Context: After a synagogue deliverance, Mark narrates the healing of Simon’s mother-in-law and an evening of healings and exorcisms.

1:29 And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

1:30 But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her.

1:31 And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

1:32 And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.

1:33 And all the city was gathered together at the door.

1:34 And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.

COVENANT_EXHORTATION 2 selections
Deuteronomy 6:10–19 KJV · In this guide

Context: Moses calls delivered Israel to remember the LORD amid abundance, worship him exclusively and not repeat Massah.

6:10 And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not,

6:11 And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full;

6:12 Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.

6:13 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.

6:14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;

6:15 (For the LORD thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.

6:16 Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah.

6:17 Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he hath commanded thee.

6:18 And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the LORD: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers,

6:19 To cast out all thine enemies from before thee, as the LORD hath spoken.

Deuteronomy 8:1–6 KJV · In this guide

Context: Moses tells Israel to remember the wilderness training and provision as they prepare for the land.

8:1 All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.

8:2 And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.

8:3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.

8:4 Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.

8:5 Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.

8:6 Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him.

POETRY 1 selections
Psalms 91:1–16 KJV · In this guide

Context: A song of confidence in the LORD’s protection ends with God’s promise to hear and be present in trouble.

91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

91:2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

91:3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

91:4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

91:5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

91:6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

91:7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

91:8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

91:9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

91:10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

91:11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

91:12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

91:13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

91:14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

91:15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

91:16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

POETRY_AND_PRAYER 1 selections
Psalms 119:9–16 KJV · In this guide

Context: The Beth stanza links purity of life with wholehearted seeking, prayer, treasured instruction and meditation.

119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

119:10 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.

119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

119:12 Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes.

119:13 With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth.

119:14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches.

119:15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.

119:16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

PROPHETIC_POETRY 1 selections
Isaiah 59:15–21 KJV · In this guide

Context: Seeing failed justice and no adequate human intervention, the LORD acts in righteousness, judgment and redemption.

59:15 Yea, truth faileth; and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey: and the LORD saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment.

59:16 And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.

59:17 For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke.

59:18 According to their deeds, accordingly he will repay, fury to his adversaries, recompence to his enemies; to the islands he will repay recompence.

59:19 So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.

59:20 And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.

59:21 As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed’s seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.

TEACHING 1 selections
Matthew 5:27–30 KJV · In this guide

Context: Within Jesus’ teaching about righteousness, adultery is traced into the purposeful lustful look, followed by forceful imagery of rejecting what leads to sin.

5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:

5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

5:30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

TEACHING_AND_PRAYER 1 selections
Matthew 6:5–15 KJV · In this guide

Context: Jesus teaches sincere prayer to the Father, gives the pattern of requests, and explains the forgiveness petition.

6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

6:6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.

6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

NARRATIVE_AND_COMMAND 1 selections
Matthew 26:30–46 KJV · In this guide

Context: The disciples promise loyalty before Jesus’ arrest. In Gethsemane he prays in anguish while they sleep.

26:30 And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

26:31 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.

26:32 But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.

26:33 Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.

26:34 Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

26:35 Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

26:36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.

26:37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.

26:38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

26:39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

26:40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?

26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

26:42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.

26:43 And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.

26:44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.

26:45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

26:46 Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.

NARRATIVE_AND_ARGUMENT 1 selections
Luke 13:10–17 KJV · In this guide

Context: Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath and answers a ruler’s objection with an argument from ordinary animal care to freeing a daughter of Abraham.

13:10 And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath.

13:11 And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself.

13:12 And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.

13:13 And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.

13:14 And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day.

13:15 The Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering?

13:16 And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?

13:17 And when he had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed: and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him.

NARRATIVE_AND_ASSURANCE 1 selections
Luke 22:31–34 KJV · In this guide

Context: At the supper Jesus speaks directly to Simon of Satan’s sifting, his own intercession and Peter’s coming denial and return.

22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:

22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

22:33 And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.

22:34 And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.

EXHORTATION 9 selections
Romans 13:8–14 KJV · In this guide

Context: The continuing obligation to love is followed by an urgent call to live in the light as salvation draws nearer.

13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

13:9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

13:10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

13:11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

13:13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Galatians 5:13–26 KJV · In this guide

Context: Paul directs freedom toward mutual service, contrasts the flesh’s works with the Spirit’s fruit, and calls those who belong to Christ to walk accordingly.

5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.

5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

5:18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

5:20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

5:21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

5:24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Galatians 6:1–5 KJV · In this guide

Context: The Spirit-shaped community restores a person caught in sin with gentleness and self-watchfulness, sharing burdens without evading responsibility.

6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

6:3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

6:5 For every man shall bear his own burden.

Ephesians 4:17–32 KJV · In this guide

Context: The letter connects learning Christ with a renewed life of truth, honest work, constructive speech, kindness and forgiveness.

4:17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

4:18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

4:19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

4:20 But ye have not so learned Christ;

4:21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

4:23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

4:25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

4:27 Neither give place to the devil.

4:28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

1 Thessalonians 5:1–11 KJV · In this guide

Context: The day of the Lord calls children of light to sobriety, faith, love, hope and mutual encouragement.

5:1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.

5:2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

5:4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

5:5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

5:7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

5:8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.

5:9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

5:10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

James 1:2–8 KJV · In this guide

Context: James addresses scattered believers and connects tested faith with endurance and a request for wisdom.

1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

1:3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

1:7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

James 1:19–27 KJV · In this guide

Context: Reception of the word continues the account of new birth through truth and leads to doing, restrained speech and practical care.

1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

1:23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

1:24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.

1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.

1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

James 4:1–10 KJV · In this guide

Context: James addresses quarrels, frustrated desires and compromised allegiance, then calls the community to receive grace through humble return.

4:1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?

4:2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.

4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?

4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

4:9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.

4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

1 Peter 4:12–19 KJV · In this guide

Context: Believers enduring reproach for Christ are distinguished from those suffering for wrongdoing and directed to their faithful Creator.

4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

4:13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

4:14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.

4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

4:18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

WARNING_AND_PROMISE 1 selections
1 Corinthians 10:1–13 KJV · In this guide

Context: Within the discussion of idol food and Christian freedom, Israel’s shared privileges and failures warn the church against presumption.

10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

10:2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

10:3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat;

10:4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

10:5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

10:6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

10:7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

10:8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

10:9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.

10:10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.

10:11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

COMMAND_AND_ARGUMENT 1 selections
1 Corinthians 10:14–22 KJV · In this guide

Context: The conclusion to the wilderness warning explains why participation at the Lord’s table is incompatible with idolatrous worship.

10:14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

10:17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.

10:18 Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?

10:19 What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?

10:20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

10:21 Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.

10:22 Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?

THANKSGIVING_AND_TESTIMONY 1 selections
2 Corinthians 1:3–11 KJV · In this guide

Context: Paul blesses God for shared comfort and describes deadly affliction in Asia that exceeded his own strength.

1:3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;

1:4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

1:6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.

1:7 And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.

1:8 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:

1:9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:

1:10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;

1:11 Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

APOSTOLIC_ARGUMENT 1 selections
2 Corinthians 10:1–6 KJV · In this guide

Context: Paul defends his apostolic ministry against opponents and describes God-given power to defeat arguments opposed to knowing God.

10:1 Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

10:2 But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

10:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

10:6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

WARNING_AND_ARGUMENT 1 selections
2 Corinthians 11:1–15 KJV · In this guide

Context: Paul warns that the Corinthians’ devotion to Christ is endangered by another message and deceptive rival apostles.

11:1 Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me.

11:2 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

11:3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

11:4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

11:5 For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.

11:6 But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made manifest among you in all things.

11:7 Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?

11:8 I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.

11:9 And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.

11:10 As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.

11:11 Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth.

11:12 But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.

11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

11:15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

PRAYER_AND_ASSURANCE 1 selections
Ephesians 1:15–23 KJV · In this guide

Context: A prayer for understanding points to God’s power in raising and exalting Christ above every rule and power.

1:15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,

1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;

1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:

1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

1:20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,

1:21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

1:22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,

1:23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

DOCTRINAL_EXPLANATION 3 selections
Ephesians 2:1–10 KJV · In this guide

Context: God’s mercy makes alive those once governed by disobedience; salvation is his gift and leads to good works.

2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,

2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

2:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 2:11–22 KJV · In this guide

Context: The blood and cross of Christ bring Gentile and Jewish believers near to God in one reconciled body.

2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

2:12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

2:13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

2:14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

2:16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

2:17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

2:18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

2:21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

2:22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

Hebrews 2:10–18 KJV · In this guide

Context: Hebrews explains why the Son shared human flesh, suffering and death as he brings his people to glory. The paragraph introduces his merciful priesthood.

2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

2:11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,

2:12 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.

2:13 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.

2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

2:15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

2:16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.

2:17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

2:18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

METAPHOR_AND_EXHORTATION 1 selections
Ephesians 6:10–20 KJV · In this guide

Context: The letter’s closing exhortation calls the community to stand in the Lord’s strength and pray perseveringly for all saints and gospel witness.

6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

6:13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

6:14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

6:15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

6:19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

6:20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

APOSTOLIC_TESTIMONY_AND_PRAYER 1 selections
1 Thessalonians 3:1–13 KJV · In this guide

Context: Paul recalls sending Timothy to strengthen the afflicted church, rejoices in the report of continuing faith and love, and prays for growth and establishment.

3:1 Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;

3:2 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

3:3 That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

3:4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

3:5 For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.

3:6 But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:

3:7 Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:

3:8 For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.

3:9 For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;

3:10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

3:11 Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.

3:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:

3:13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

MINISTERIAL_INSTRUCTION 1 selections
2 Timothy 2:22–26 KJV · In this guide

Context: Timothy is told to flee sinful passions, pursue good with believers, and correct opponents patiently in hope of God-given repentance.

2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

2:23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,

2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

WARNING_AND_EXHORTATION 1 selections
Hebrews 3:7–19 KJV · In this guide

Context: Psalm 95 and the wilderness generation warn against hardened unbelief. Daily mutual exhortation serves continuing faith.

3:7 Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice,

3:8 Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

3:9 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.

3:10 Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.

3:11 So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)

3:12 Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

3:14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

3:15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

3:16 For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses.

3:17 But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?

3:18 And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?

3:19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.

EXHORTATION_AND_ASSURANCE 4 selections
Hebrews 4:12–16 KJV · In this guide

Context: The searching word concludes the warning about unbelief and God’s rest; the high-priest invitation opens the sustained priesthood argument.

4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

4:13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

4:14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.

4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

1 Peter 5:5–11 KJV · In this guide

Context: After counsel to elders, Peter joins humility, the casting of cares on God, vigilance, resistance and praise.

5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

5:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

5:11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

1 John 1:5–2:6 KJV · In this guide

Context: Walking in the light involves truth about sin, cleansing through Christ and obedience; the righteous Advocate gives hope when believers sin.

1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:

1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1:10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

2:3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.

2:4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.

2:6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

1 John 4:1–6 KJV · In this guide

Context: The letter tests prophetic claims by confession of Jesus Christ come in the flesh and reception of apostolic testimony.

4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

4:2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:

4:3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.

4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

4:5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.

4:6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

EXHORTATION_AND_EXPLANATION 1 selections
James 1:12–18 KJV · In this guide

Context: The blessing on endurance leads into a distinction between enticement to evil and the Father’s life-giving generosity.

1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.

1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

APOCALYPTIC_VISION 1 selections
Revelation 12:7–17 KJV · In this guide

Context: Within the vision of the woman, child and dragon, heaven announces the accuser’s defeat while earthly conflict continues.

12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

12:8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.

12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

12:12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

12:13 And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

12:14 And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

12:15 And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.

12:16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.

12:17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

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Sources & interpretation

The teaching starts with the cited Scripture. These consulted works inform wording, context, and interpretive questions. No qualified human review has been recorded for this guide.

How does praying against temptation relate to God’s testing and to deliverance from evil?

James distinguishes trials that test faith from enticement to evil. Matthew 4 names the Spirit’s leading and the devil’s tempting separately; Matthew 6:13 asks the Father for protection. Genesis 22:1 also uses the KJV word tempt for God’s testing of Abraham; the narrated command and God’s stopping of the sacrifice belong to that particular covenant event.

  • The prayer asks to be spared testing generally, with protection from moral failure.
  • Some understand it particularly against final eschatological testing; the immediate wording does not explicitly limit it to that setting.
  • The concluding request can refer to evil generally or to the evil one personally.

Explain a broad appeal for God’s guarding and rescuing help. Acknowledge evil/evil-one ambiguity without replacing the KJV or suggesting God morally entices people. Do not base the explanation on a reconstructed Aramaic original.

Further study: I-Jin Loh and Howard A. Hatton · Barclay M. Newman and Philip C. Stine

Further examination: Does the distinction respect James 1 and the Spirit’s action in Matthew 4 while allowing the prayer to ask for real deliverance?

Whose spirit and whose yearning are described in James 4:5?

The clause is syntactically and semantically disputed, and no exact Old Testament quotation is identified in the inspected handbook.

  • The human spirit tends toward envy, contrasting with God’s greater grace.
  • God yearns jealously for the spirit he has caused to dwell in people.
  • The indwelling Holy Spirit yearns for their undivided allegiance.

Do not settle the disputed clause by capitalization or a doctrinal assumption. James 4:1–4 and 6–10 establish desire-driven conflict, divided allegiance, grace and humble return without resolving it. Retain the complete verse in the selected text and make the alternatives accessible here.

Further study: I-Jin Loh and Howard A. Hatton

Further examination: Does any wording in the main section implicitly assign the Holy Spirit sinful envy or imply that one disputed translation is certain?

How do receiving God’s strength and actively putting on the armor belong together?

The Lord’s strength grounds the commands to put on, take up and stand. The listed realities connect with salvation and conduct already described in Ephesians.

  • Carlson emphasizes being strengthened by God and construes the opening imperative as passive.
  • Hylen emphasizes the community’s active participation and construes it as middle.
  • Armor explanations may emphasize either divine saving provision or the faithful conduct that embodies it; the letter supplies grounds for keeping both together.

Base the main explanation on the clear combination of divine provision and commanded response. Avoid making a disputed voice classification, a technical ritual or the exact mechanics of ancient equipment necessary to faithful application.

Further study: Richard Carlson · Susan Hylen

Further examination: Does the account of truth, righteousness and faith preserve salvation by grace while giving the commands their active force?

Does the footwear picture firmness through the gospel or readiness to announce it?

The term translated preparation in Ephesians 6:15 permits several explanations in the inspected translation handbook.

  • The gospel equips believers with readiness and courage.
  • The gospel provides stable footing for standing.
  • Believers are prepared to announce the gospel of peace.

Keep the main explanation qualified between firm footing and readiness to witness. These are distinct readings of the phrase; both practices have independent support in the surrounding exhortation. Explain peace through Ephesians 2 rather than reducing it to a feeling.

Further study: Robert C. Bratcher and Eugene A. Nida

Further examination: Does the paragraph retain the actual translation uncertainty while still explaining how the gospel equips a faithful response?

  1. Commentary on Hebrews 4:12–16

    Amy L. B. Peeler · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2015-10-11

    Connects exposure before God with confidence through the sympathetic, sinless priest; resists dividing a merciful Son from a hostile Father.

    What was reviewed

    Complete commentary, especially “The sympathetic priest” and “Two experiences, one God.” Accessed 2026-09-26.

    A short exposition, not her full Hebrews commentary. Its compressed Greek comparison is not used as a lexical argument.

  2. A Handbook on The Letter from James: James 1:13

    I-Jin Loh and Howard A. Hatton · United Bible Societies, excerpt hosted by TIPs / American Bible Society · 1997

    Explains the contextual difference between testing and enticement to evil, while allowing trials to become occasions of temptation.

    What was reviewed

    Complete James 1:13 entry, from the shift in “test” through proposed translation models. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.

    Only this verse entry was read, not the complete book; illustrative translation proposals are not substituted for the pinned KJV.

  3. Commentary on Matthew 4:1–11

    Judith Jones · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2014-03-09

    Directs attention to the meaning of obedient sonship and the context of the Deuteronomy quotations.

    What was reviewed

    Complete commentary; paragraphs on baptism, Deuteronomy 8:3, Massah and exclusive worship. Accessed 2026-09-26.

    The article’s reconstructed questions and suggested angelic meal are not adopted as narrated facts.

  4. Commentary on 1 Corinthians 10:1–13

    Shively Smith · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2016-02-28

    Locates testing within pressure on the community’s loyalty to God and the idol-food discussion.

    What was reviewed

    Complete commentary, especially “Literary Context of 1 Corinthians 10” and “The meaning of Testing in 1 Corinthians.” Accessed 2026-09-26.

    Its contemporary illustration and statistics are not imported; its broader claims about the source of every test are not treated as established by verse 13.

  5. A Handbook on the Gospel of Matthew: Matthew 6:13

    Barclay M. Newman and Philip C. Stine · United Bible Societies, excerpt hosted by TIPs / American Bible Society · 1988

    Identifies genuine scope and translation alternatives in the petition for deliverance.

    What was reviewed

    Complete verse entry, especially general versus final testing and evil versus the evil one. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.

    Only this entry was read. Its reconstruction of an Aramaic wording and its claim that God creates testing in 1 Corinthians 10:13 are not adopted.

  6. Luke the Historian: The Gospel of Luke, chapter 22

    Bob Utley · Bible Lessons International; hosted by Bible.org · 2012-11-15 (page publication); copyright 2013

    Verifies plural you for the disciples in verse 31 and the specific intercession and return of Peter in verse 32.

    What was reviewed

    Only the text and notes for Luke 22:31–34, plus the displayed author and publication information. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.

    This is an evangelical study commentary, not an independently adjudicated grammar or a full critical commentary. Its further reconstructions of Peter’s motives and leadership are not adopted.

  7. A Handbook on The Letter from James: James 4:5

    I-Jin Loh and Howard A. Hatton · United Bible Societies, excerpt hosted by TIPs / American Bible Society · 1997

    Documents substantive alternatives concerning human envy and divine jealousy; prevents making this disputed clause the sole basis of the call to submit.

    What was reviewed

    Complete James 4:5 entry: quotation problem, six renderings, arguments and concluding translation advice. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.

    The inspected work is an excerpt. Its older translation labels should not be assumed to describe current editions.

  8. Commentary on Ephesians 6:10–20

    Richard Carlson · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2021-08-22

    Connects the exhortation with God’s power, Christ’s exaltation, Isaiah and community prayer.

    What was reviewed

    Complete commentary, especially its three interpretive points and concluding armor/prayer paragraphs. Accessed 2026-09-26.

    The imperative’s voice differs from Hylen’s analysis. The article’s modern ideological examples do not define the biblical powers for this guide.

  9. Commentary on Ephesians 6:10–20

    Susan Hylen · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2009-08-23

    Adds an active-participation emphasis and a comparison with God’s own armor in Isaiah.

    What was reviewed

    Complete commentary, including Isaiah 59, the community’s agency, and connections to Ephesians 2 and 4. Accessed 2026-09-26.

    Its middle-voice analysis and language of faith activating power are not made controlling claims; dependence and action are established from the passage itself.

  10. A Handbook on Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians: Ephesians 6:14–15

    Robert C. Bratcher and Eugene A. Nida · United Bible Societies, excerpt hosted by TIPs / American Bible Society · 1982

    Provides translation alternatives for the footwear and clarifies the basic protective imagery.

    What was reviewed

    Complete two-verse entry: truth, righteousness, belt and breastplate, four readings of readiness and peace. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.

    Only the displayed entry was consulted. Commentaries it names were not read; its older translation labels are not verified current editions.

  11. A Handbook on Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians: 2 Corinthians 10:5

    Roger L. Omanson and Paul Ellingworth · United Bible Societies, excerpt hosted by TIPs / American Bible Society · 1993

    Confirms that the imagery concerns reasoning opposed to knowing God and that Paul describes his ministry’s action.

    What was reviewed

    Complete verse entry: arguments, the referent of apostolic we, proud obstacles and thoughts brought into obedience. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.

    Only the verse entry was read, not the whole handbook. The military illustration is not developed into a theory of territorial spirits.

  12. Commentary on 1 Peter 4:12–14; 5:6–11

    Jeannine K. Brown · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2017-05-28

    Keeps resistance within suffering for Christ and the care of the God of grace.

    What was reviewed

    Complete commentary, particularly the transition to 5:6–11, alertness alongside entrusted anxiety, and God’s establishing action. Accessed 2026-09-26.

    The proposed Roman-arena allusion and the journal article cited for it were not independently verified and are not used.