Choose Wisdom Over Temptation
This summary and strategic rewrite, drawing on excerpts from a sermon by Jentezen Franklin, outlines the critical choice believers face daily between two opposing “parties”—the house of folly (temptation) and the house of wisdom—emphasizing that this decision dictates one’s long-term opportunities and destiny.
The Daily Choice: Two Invitations, One RSVP
Every person continuously receives two distinct invitations that demand a response. You cannot be neutral, nor can you attend both gatherings; you must RSVP to one and forgo the other. Choosing one means giving up the potential of the other.
This choice is not determined by God, but by the individual.
Similarities Between the Two Parties
Both parties possess attractive qualities designed to appeal to the individual:
- Both are described as fun and enjoyable.
- Both offer good food and entertainment.
- Both are held at the same time, meaning simultaneous attendance is impossible.
Contrasting Hosts and Outcomes
The hosts of both parties are described as beautiful, attractive women. However, their intentions and the outcomes they promise are radically different:
| Party | Host | Appeal | Focus | Promise/Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| House of Temptation | The Harlot (a spirit of the world) | Sensual and Carnal (Lust of the flesh, eyes, pride of life) | Temptation | Destruction. That which thrills, then kills. |
| House of Wisdom | Lady Wisdom | Spiritual and Eternal (Spiritual desires and longings) | Opportunities | Life and life more abundantly, lasting future. |
The choice is universal, preached to young people, young couples, older men, and middle-aged people alike. Ignoring the invitation is not an option; failure to respond to wisdom will lead to temptation.
1. The Harlot’s Party: The Seduction of the Temporary
The house of temptation is prepared for momentary, superficial satisfaction.
Superficial Preparation and Temporary Pleasure
Proverbs 7 describes the harlot’s preparations, which are designed entirely to appeal to the five senses:
- She has “decked” and decorated her bed.
- She uses fine linen from Egypt.
- The space features carvings and tapestries.
- She has perfumed her bed with special spices and smells.
The entire setting is designed to “catch your eye”. It offers pleasure in sin for a season, but destruction inevitably follows.
The “One Night Stand Plan”
The temptation party is characterized by a “one night stand plan,” signifying its temporary nature.
- The host is not interested in a long-term relationship.
- The host makes reference that her husband is “out of town,” signaling an expiration date on the sin.
- Everything the devil offers has an expiration date.
- This plan holds no commitment, no concern for marriage, children, or future generations.
- Choosing this invitation means saying “yes to the temporary”—that which “fascinates and then assassinates”.
The enemy attempts to lie by claiming that this temporary lifestyle is normal or “how God made us,” despite the truth that desire is meant to be contained within the marriage covenant. Accepting the harlot’s invitation ultimately leads to pain and sorrow.