Norm Spohr begins a teaching series on temptation, emphasizing that temptation is a universal human experience and something believers face daily. Drawing from Scripture and practical illustration, he explains that temptation itself is not sin, and believers should not feel guilty simply for being tempted.
Norm contrasts temptation with positive incentives, explaining that while incentives motivate us toward good or beneficial actions, temptation is the negative counterpart — enticing us toward what is harmful, sinful, or disobedient to God. He notes that temptation is one of the enemy’s most effective strategies, often all that is needed to lead someone into wrongdoing.
Using a humorous but insightful story about preacher Ray Stedman, Norm illustrates how even mature believers face temptation, but also how resisting temptation brings unexpected blessing and peace. He highlights Philippians 4:8, reminding listeners that what we choose to dwell on in our minds directly affects our spiritual well-being, and that obedience leads to the peace of God.
Throughout the message, Norm encourages believers to understand temptation clearly, reject false guilt, and recognize that victory begins with right thinking and reliance on God. The sermon sets a strong foundation for learning how to recognize, resist, and overcome temptation through biblical truth and the presence of God.