(Week #48) God’s View of Suffering through Trials (1 Cor. 1:7-10; James 1:2-4)

I. The Perspective of Trials (v.2)
A. Trials are distinct.(Peirasmos – trial or temptation)
a. Trial or Test – A difficult circumstance that does not involve enticement to sin. (Js. 1:12)
b. Temptation – A direct appeal or enticement to sin against God or man. (Js.1:13)
1. Temptation comes from within in mind (Js. 1:14-15; Gen. 3:1-7)
2. Recognize the difference between a true test (from God) and a solicitation to commit evil (from the world, flesh, and the devil).
3. In cases involving temptation you should:
~ Flee from idolatry (1 Cor. 10:14)
~ Flee from youthful lusts (2 Tim. 2:22)
~ Flee from sexual temptation (Gen39:12)
~ Make no provision for the flesh in regards to its lust. (Rom. 13:14)
~ Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)
4. Overcoming temptation requires yielding to the Word. (Gal. 5:16; Col. 3:16; 2 Cor. 10:5)

B. Trials are unexpected. (James 1:2; Luke 10:30; Acts 27:41)

C. Trials are generally beyond our control. (1 Cor. 10:13; Rom. 8:28, 1 Pet. 2:20)

D. Trials are a training tool. (Heb. 12:4-11)

II. The Purpose of Trials (v.3)
A. Trials build endurance and the ability to handle life issues. (Js. 1:2-4; 1 Pet. 1:6-7; Rom. 5:3-4)

III. The Product of Trials (v.4)
A. Trials produce spiritual maturity (teleios) (1Cor. 14:20; Eph. 4:12-13)

B. Spiritual maturity allows one to know truth, have skill at living, and know the difference between good and evil. (1 Cor. 14:20; Eph. 4:13-14)

IV. Principles for the Christian
A. Everyone is going to be tested in and through trials and suffering so be prepared when they come.

B. Trials are difficult but passing them brings peace, contentment in life, and expands your capacity to serve in God’s kingdom program now and in the future.

C. Don’t give up or give in during your trial. Press on in your maturity and growth because it costs too much to be taken for granted.