Matthew 4:6 English Standard Version (ESV) and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, “‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and “‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’”

This is the second temptation of Christ by Satan. Notice closely that Satan knows scripture and the temptation is associated with the proper application of God’s Word. What was written was not challenged, only the application.

There are two lies that Satan constantly hounds mankind with in his efforts to steal and kill and destroy. One is that we are not saved when we are and the other is that we are saved when we are not. Both are meant to destabilize the security of believers.

2 Corinthians 13:5 English Standard Version (ESV) Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!

All test have an opening question which sets the tone for the rest of the examination. If we are to test ourselves we must be able to answer the primary question with confidence before we continue on with the self-examination. Where do we begin?

It begins with our conversion story. We need to have a primary witness that the lost can identify with. I was lost and now am saved is insufficient as a witness. It is vague and easily dismissed.

There has to be a salvation moment that is both convicting and life changing. No one accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior without feeling the need for salvation. No one can be saved if they do not accept they are lost. Even the word lost is a vague term. What are the words we use to describe that wake up moment when we realized we needed to change?

1 Timothy 5:20 English Standard Version (ESV) As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.

I do not question the Word of God. I question the situation that has led to this necessity.

Is this persistent sin known to the majority present?

What steps have been taken to correct that behavior?

Does the individual that is about to rebuke another have the standing within the group to have those words accepted?

Of all these questions it may be the first that is the most important. How is it that a persistent sin would go unchecked without leadership performing counseling? That leads to the second part in awareness for the need of counseling. Not all counseling is public knowledge.

If we do not have the authority to rebuke, real damage will be done within the group. It will divide fellowship into two camps. It causes people to choose sides.

This is true also.

Galatians 6:1 English Standard Version (ESV) Brothers,if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.

As is this.

1 Corinthians 10:13 English Standard Version (ESV) No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

Persistent sinners have not found God’s escape hatch. Consider that and look beyond the sin where something more serious may be the problem.

What could be more serious than persistent sin?

Is that person truly saved?