Swim Free
Series: Hooked
Scripture: Matthew 4

With each and every temptation Jesus responded the same way - in complete ________________ to the Father as he ______________ scripture.
The primary ______________ of sin is _____________ in relationship between God and mankind ____________ in death.
• ___________ requires ___________________, and atonement requires the _______________ of blood.
• Sin demanded a ____________, spotless _______________.
• 1 Timothy 2:5-6
Jesus’ death didn’t just _____________ us, it sets us ___________.
• 1 John 2:2
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• _______________ what Jesus did for you on the cross.
To truly enjoy the freedom we’re _________________ to live is to ____________ _______ the hook and swim __________.

3 Practical tips to keep swimming free.
1. _____________ God’s ______________.
• 2 Timothy 3:16
• Find a way to spend time in God’s Word that keeps you _______________ and _______________.

2. ___________ God for ______________.
• ______________ you can’t do it on your own.
• James 1:5

3. ______________ in the Spirit’s _____________.
• Freedom isn’t found in our ____________. It is found in greater _________________ on God’s power.
• Romans 8:1-2

Start talking:
• What’s one lesson you've learned the hard way about temptation?
• Have you ever seen someone avoid a “shortcut” because they knew it would ultimately cost more? What happened?
• Which image from this series has stuck with you most—the bait, the hook, swimming free, or something else? Why?

Start Thinking:
• Read Matthew 4:1–11. What stands out to you about the way Jesus responded to each temptation?
• Satan offered Jesus a shortcut around the cross. Why do you think shortcuts are often so appealing in our spiritual lives?
• Pastor Troy said, “Every act of obedience kept Jesus the spotless sacrifice for us.” Why is Jesus’ sinless life essential to our salvation?
• Read 2 Corinthians 5:17. What does it mean to be a “new creation”? How should that change the way we think about ourselves?

Start Sharing:
• Which of these three practices comes most naturally to you? Which is the biggest challenge?
• Knowing God’s Word
• Asking God for help
• Walking in the Spirit’s power
• When you’re tempted, what's usually your first response—trying harder on your own or depending on God? Why?
• Is there a particular lie Satan tends to use against you? What truth from Scripture helps combat that lie?
• How has understanding God’s grace changed the way you respond after you’ve failed?

Start Praying:
• Read Romans 8:2. What hope does this verse give you?
• Is there an area where you need God’s power to help you “swim free” this week?
• Pray for others to grow in dependence on God’s Word, God’s help, and the Holy Spirit’s power.

Start Doing:
• What’s one practical habit you could begin this week that would help you know God’s Word more consistently?
• What does it practically look like to “ask God for help” before temptation instead of after failure?
• Who could encourage you to keep pursuing freedom in Christ? How can you intentionally stay connected to them this week?
• If someone watched your life this week, what evidence would they see that you’re swimming toward Jesus instead of toward the bait?

Challenge for the Week:

This week, intentionally practice the three habits that help us live in the freedom Christ purchased for us.