Reflections with Andy - 1 Corinthians 10: 1-22 – Temptation is a Lie

We see Paul share with us about the temptations that will come for us all. That is why we need to understand this truth. Temptation is a lie

In today’s reflection on 1 Corinthians 10:1–22, we look at how Paul uses Israel’s story as a warning and an encouragement for us. He reminds us that all of Scripture — Old and New — teaches us, challenges us, and reveals our need for grace. Paul lists sins in a way that catches all of us, showing that idolatry isn’t just ancient statues but anything we trust more than God. And when it comes to temptation, Paul gives us hope: every temptation we face is common to humanity, and God always provides a way out. Temptation is a lie, but God is faithful. As we learn from Scripture and from each other, we can stand firm in the face of testing.

Join us for our daily reflections. In 10 short minutes, we’ll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help us better understand God’s Word.

You can read today’s passage here.

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Good morning — hope you’re having a great Wednesday so far. And whenever you’re watching or listening to this, I hope you’re catching it early. A lot of y’all tell me you like to watch first thing in the morning or listen to the podcast on the way to school with your kids, or on the way to work. Wherever you are right now, I pray this is a help to your soul.

I was talking with someone yesterday about how hard it can be to slow down and listen for God. Life moves fast, and quiet moments don’t come easy. So I hope these reflections give you a little space — a small pause — to hear God’s voice through Scripture.

Today we’re starting 1 Corinthians 10, reading verses 1 through 22. It’s a good-sized chunk, and Paul covers a lot of ground.

Paul begins by reminding us of Israel’s story — how they passed through the sea, followed the cloud, ate the spiritual food, drank from the spiritual rock. He says all of this serves as an example for us, so that we won’t desire evil as they did. I’ve said this before, but I’ll say it again: I don’t want us to be a “New Testament church.” I want us to be a whole Bible church. The whole of Scripture — Old and New — speaks to us, challenges us, and shapes us. Paul is doing that here. He’s saying, “Look at what they went through. Learn from it. Don’t repeat their mistakes.”

And then Paul does what Paul always does. He starts listing sins in a way that pulls us in. First he says, “Don’t be idolaters.” And we think, “Amen, Paul — get those idol worshipers.” Then he says, “Don’t indulge in sexual immorality.” And we say, “Yes, Lord — get those folks.” Then he says, “Don’t put Christ to the test.” Again, we nod along. But then he says, “And don’t complain.” And suddenly we’re caught. Because that one hits home.

Paul never lists sins to divide people into “good folks” and “bad folks.” He lists sins in a way that reminds us we all stand guilty — and that’s why grace matters. He pulls us in with the sins we’re ready for God to judge, then turns the mirror back on us.

Later, Paul talks about food sacrificed to idols. He’s clear: the food itself isn’t the issue — it’s the intention behind the worship. Don’t give your heart to idols. And we think, “Well, we don’t worship Roman gods or golden calves.” But an idol is anything we trust more than God. It might be your job, your family, your retirement, your status, your popularity. We all have something that tries to take God’s place.

Then Paul turns to temptation and testing. He warns us: if you think you’re standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall. We will all face temptation. If Jesus was tempted, why would we think we won’t be? If you believe you’re above temptation, you’re already in trouble.

But then Paul gives us good news:

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to everyone. God is faithful. He will not let you be tested beyond your strength. And with the testing, He will provide a way out so that you can endure.

Sometimes temptation feels too strong. Sometimes testing feels too heavy. But Paul says it isn’t. You’re not alone. Others have faced what you’re facing. That’s why we need each other — to pray for one another, support one another, and walk with one another.

And remember: temptation is a lie. Jesus was tempted with promises the devil couldn’t actually deliver. Temptation always promises something it cannot give. If we can see temptation for what it is — a lie — then we’re better able to stand against it when the day of trial comes.

So yes, you will be tempted. We all will. But God will make a way out. And if we can recognize temptation’s lie, we can stand firm.

Thanks for being with us today. We’ll pick up tomorrow with the rest of the chapter. Have a great day — see you then.