Genesis 2:9 And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

Every tree God created was pleasant to the sight and good for food. That included the tree of knowledge of good and evil. There was nothing unpleasant nor harmful about that fruit. So why was eating it a sin?

Genesis 2:17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

Because God said no has been the provincial answer but often times we overlook the warning of consequences. If you eat it you shall die. God did not say no just because He could, He gave a warning as to consequences.

When does an urge graduate into a temptation? It is when one realizes there are consequences. I absolutely lust after coffee ice cream. Before you accuse me of being overly harsh with my expression of lust, you should understand that is my problem, not yours. I am weak willed when it comes to coffee ice cream. If I give into that lust as much as I desire, I would soon become a diabetic. My doctor warned me of that fact and is monitoring my A1C because of it.

I would have continued in my lust if it had not been for the warning of consequences. Could I have a scoop of coffee ice cream once a month without doing my body any harm? Sure, but since I lack self-control and a scoop for me looks like a half gallon and last about as long, it is dangerous for me to give in to temptation.

It is temptation because we know the consequence.

Ephesians 4:14-16 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

This year I have endeavored to simplify my gospel message. This past week it looks like I have strayed from that purpose. It only looks that way. I realize that one of the necessary elements of growth is to be challenged. At some point in your growth in Christ you are going to take charge of your own growth process.

Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

Where are your pastors and teachers of your youth? Retired? Passed on? Where did your current pastor and teacher come from? They grew into those positions. They took charge of their own growth in Christ. No one is placed into a position of responsibility unless they have proven themselves worthy.

1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

You may not be on the path to eldership, pastoral service or even a teacher, but that does not mean you should not take charge of your own growth in Christ.

A strength coach cannot build you up by pumping the iron for you.