Satan tempted Jesus to turn from God's plan and submit to him.  Jesus stood firm in the Word of God and did not give in to temptation.

How can we help children prepare to stand up against the attacks of the Devil?

Bible verses used in this episode:
Matthew 4:1-11

Outline:

1. Fasting in the desert (Matthew 4:1-2)
2. Temptations (Matthew 4:3-10)
3. Satan leaves, and angels bring comfort (Matthew 4:11)

Tips for Teaching:

• Verses to remember when we face temptation:
  • Joshua 1:9
  • Psalm 27:1
  • Ephesians 6:10-18
• To help children understand the concept of temptation, place a bowl of sweets or candy in the middle of the table.  Talk about how yummy they are but say that no one is allowed to eat them.  As you continue teaching, refer back to the yummy treats. Perhaps even eat one in front of the children.  Once time has passed then, allow the children to eat the treats.  As you eat, talk about how Satan tries to trick us by making bad things look very good to us. 
  Temptation is either:
  • A desire to do something we should not, or
  • A desire to NOT do something we should do.
• Adults can compare the Old Testament stories of the Israelites in the wilderness with the temptations of Jesus.  Small groups could share how the devil tries to pull us away from God's purposes.

Full teaching instructions available free from Mission Bible Class:
Bible Lesson:  Jesus is Tempted in the Wilderness

Scriptures quoted from the International Children’s Bible®, copyright ©1986, 1988, 1999, 2015 by Tommy Nelson. Used by permission.

Excerpts from Mission Bible Class used by permission.

For questions or comments email: mary@missionbibleclass.org