Temptation on SermonAudio

In Part 2 of "Calling Out Carnality," Keith Voyles continues warning Christians—especially young people—about the danger of yielding to temptation and living according to the flesh. The message explains that carnality develops when a believer allows fleshly desires, worldly influences, and sinful temptations to control his decisions. Temptation often begins in the mind and grows when it is entertained, excused, or hidden rather than immediately resisted. Keith challenges young Christians not to assume they are strong enough to remain close to sin without falling. The believer must recognize personal weaknesses, guard what enters the heart and mind, separate from influences that encourage sin, and flee temptation rather than attempting to manage it. The sermon emphasizes that victory cannot be achieved through willpower alone. Christians must depend upon the Lord, submit themselves to God, fill their minds with Scripture, and walk in the Spirit. A carnal life brings spiritual weakness and damages a believer's testimony, while obedience produces spiritual growth and usefulness to God. Primary themes: temptation, resisting the flesh, spiritual watchfulness, separation from sinful influences, and dependence upon God. Key Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 10:12–13; James 1:14–16; Galatians 5:16; 2 Timothy 2:22. "Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace…" — 2 Timothy 2:22, KJV

In Part 4 of "Calling Out Carnality," Keith Voyles preaches from James 2:1–13 about how favoritism and respect of persons reveal carnality in a believer's life. Keith explains that Christians may profess faith in the Lord Jesus Christ while behaving in ways that misrepresent His character. One clear example is treating people differently because of wealth, appearance, social position, influence, talent, or personal benefit. The message warns that favoritism always produces two results: someone is idolized while someone else is isolated. One person is welcomed, honored, and included, while another is ignored, pushed aside, or treated as inferior. Keith stresses that this conduct is not merely socially wrong; it damages the testimony of Christ. Christ does not show partiality. Although He is the Lord of glory, He humbled Himself, became a servant, and freely receives whosoever will come to Him. Therefore, believers cannot claim His faith while refusing to display His character toward others. Keith applies the passage directly to conduct within the church. The rich man in good clothing must not receive better treatment than the poor man in vile raiment. Both were souls for whom Christ died. Showing preference because of what someone can provide—money, influence, connections, status, or talent—is carnal and selfish. The sermon also warns against cliques and social divisions among God's people. Christians must not build exclusive circles that welcome those they prefer while shutting out others in the same body. Genuine Christian fellowship requires humility, mercy, equal treatment, and a willingness to serve people regardless of their position. Primary text: James 2:1–13

In Part 10 of "Calling Out Carnality," Keith Voyles concludes the series from James 5. He warns that affliction can expose carnality through impatience, bitterness, careless words, and a damaged testimony. Believers are called to endure patiently, follow the examples of the prophets and Job, guard their integrity, and depend upon prayer. The message closes by showing that unchecked carnality forfeits spiritual power, especially power in prayer. Primary text: James 5:7–20.

Genesis 3:1-7 Jesus' faithful submission to God's authority enables you to resist the temptation to doubt God and His Word.

Sunday Evening Service, August 2, 2026

Sexual temptation looks exciting and satisfying, but in the end, it will ruin you.