Temptation versus Sin

[CraigB]

I would like to be able to better distinguish that being tempted to sin is not sin- especially as regarding whether to go to Confession or not. But the problem is that just being tempted to sin, for me, seems reason enough to see it as sin that might need confession. Since I might be opening myself up or being disposed to the possibility of a sin, isn’t that- at the heart of the matter a sin? Or is that concupisence- which is more of a condition I guess?
What if I’m tempted, and attracted towards a sin- but then turn away from it? Lust for example.

 

[benedictgal]

I would like to be able to better distinguish that being tempted to sin is not sin- especially as regarding whether to go to Confession or not. But the problem is that just being tempted to sin, for me, seems reason enough to see it as sin that might need confession. Since I might be opening myself up or being disposed to the possibility of a sin, isn’t that- at the heart of the matter a sin? Or is that concupisence- which is more of a condition I guess?
What if I’m tempted, and attracted towards a sin- but then turn away from it? Lust for example.

Your best example comes from the triple temptation Jesus endured right after His Baptism. Remember that Satan tempted Jesus through hunger, power and presumption. However, even though Jesus was exposed to these, he never sinned. It’s not the temptation tha will send you to the confessional; it is the sin.

Furthermore, during His agony at Gethsemani, Jesus was probably tempted to not go through with His Passion and Death. However, his response was, “Not my will, but Yours (the Father’s) will be done.” Again, he was exposed to the temptation, but, did not sin.

I hope this helps.

 

[nicolep]

I agree with PP. It’s not possible for us to avoid all temptations. Being able to resist the temptation requires courage and conviction. I am under the impression that lust is only sinful when acted upon (including indulging in lustful thoughts).