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I. Temptations of Satan are to be FEARED:

(1)  For the skill and method with which he tempts;

(2)  Because his warfare is spiritual.

II. Temptations are SUCCESSIVE and variable. Satan

(1)  changes the objects and manners of the temptation;

(2)  Not tempting in more than one particular at a time.

III. Temptations are preserved by Satan in order and METHOD.

1. With pleasure, then with vainglory.

2. With riches and ambition.

IV. Temptations and their purposes are often HIDDEN. The serpent is seldom seen in its entire or full length.

V. Temptations are set LIKE SNARES. There are many social questions on which he suggests an inversion of God's moral laws.

VI. Temptations are often MADE IN SECRET. They lose their power if divulged. Many n plot is overthrown by discovery.

VII. Temptations are SUITED TO OPPORTUNITY. There are certain moral qualities nearly allied to certain vices; as harshness to cruelty and pride; as softness to luxury and dissipation.

VIII. Temptations have OPPOSITE METHODS. Gentle persuasion first, violent constraint afterwards.

IX. All temptations are ALIKE IN EFFECT.

1. Some strike the tempted one, laying him low by unexpected occurrences.

2. Others creep into the mind little by little, killing while resisting by soft suggestions.

X. Temptations are INTERMITTENT. The devil departs for a season, but returns to be victorious when least expected.

(Claude de Lingeirdes.)It is not enough for Him to fulfil the law, but He suffers Himself to be tempted to break it.

(Farindon.)

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

WEB: Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.