Dictionary of Bible Themes: 8027 faith, testing of

8027 faith, testing of

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8010 Faith » 8020 faith » 8027 faith, testing of

The means through which the genuineness of faith is proved and Christian character developed. God promises to help his people during times of testing.

God allows faith to be tested

Testing proves the genuineness of faith

1 Peter 1:6-7 See also Matthew 13:20-21 pp Mark 4:16-17 pp Luke 8:13

Testing develops Christian character

James 1:2-4 See also Romans 5:3-4

Testing purifies God's people

Isaiah 48:10 See also Psalm 66:10-12; Jeremiah 9:7; Zechariah 13:9; Malachi 3:2-3; 1 Peter 4:17

Examples of God testing faith

Abraham is told to sacrifice Isaac:

Genesis 22:1-2; Hebrews 11:17-19 Deuteronomy 8:2-5 God tested Israel in the desert; Judges 7:1-8 God reduces Gideon's army; Matthew 15:21-28 pp Mark 7:24-30 Jesus Christ appears to discourage the Canaanite woman; John 11:1-6 Jesus Christ delays going to Bethany when Lazarus is ill.

Means by which faith is tested

God allows Satan to test faith

Difficult circumstances test faith

1 Kings 17:17-18; 2 Kings 4:1,27-28; Acts 14:22; 2 Corinthians 11:25-27

Persecution tests faith

Daniel 6:10-12; Acts 8:1-4; Hebrews 11:35-38

Discouraging people test faith

2 Kings 18:19-25 pp 2 Chronicles 32:10-15 pp Isaiah 36:4-10; Mark 5:35-36 pp Luke 8:49-50; Mark 5:40 pp Matthew 9:24 pp Luke 8:53

God's promise of help during testing

Isaiah 43:2; Luke 22:32 See also Psalm 91:14-15; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Corinthians 12:7-9; 1 Peter 5:10; 2 Peter 2:9

God's help through the encouragement of others

1 Thessalonians 3:2-3 See also 2 Corinthians 7:5-7