Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "tempts" in the Bible is closely associated with the idea of testing or trying one's faith, character, or obedience to God. Temptation is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, illustrating both the challenges faced by believers and the faithfulness of God in providing a way to overcome such trials.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "tempt" is "nāsâ," which can mean to test or try. One of the most notable instances of temptation is found in the account of Abraham. God tested Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Genesis 22:1 states, "Some time later God tested Abraham and said to him, 'Abraham!' 'Here I am,' he replied." This test was not intended to lead Abraham into sin but to prove his faith and obedience. The Israelites also experienced temptation during their journey in the wilderness. In Deuteronomy 8:2 , Moses reminds them, "Remember that the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commandments." New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "peirazō" is commonly used for temptation. The most significant account of temptation is the testing of Jesus in the wilderness. After His baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Matthew 4:1 records, "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil." This event highlights Jesus' sinlessness and His reliance on Scripture to resist temptation. The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of temptation in his letters, offering both warnings and encouragement to believers. In 1 Corinthians 10:13 , Paul writes, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it." This passage reassures believers of God's faithfulness and His provision of a way out of temptation. Theological Implications Theologically, temptation is understood as a test of faith and character. It is not from God, as James 1:13 clarifies, "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone." Instead, temptation arises from one's own desires and the influence of the world and the devil. Believers are called to resist temptation through the power of the Holy Spirit and the application of God's Word. Ephesians 6:11 exhorts, "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." This spiritual armor includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God, all of which equip believers to withstand temptation. Practical Application In practical terms, Christians are encouraged to remain vigilant and prayerful in the face of temptation. Jesus instructed His disciples in Matthew 26:41 , "Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak." This highlights the importance of spiritual alertness and reliance on God through prayer. Furthermore, believers are urged to flee from situations that may lead to sin and to seek fellowship with other Christians for support and accountability. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." In summary, the biblical understanding of "tempts" encompasses both the trials that test faith and the assurance of God's provision for overcoming them. Through Scripture, prayer, and the support of the Christian community, believers are equipped to resist temptation and grow in their faith. Library Why the Serpent Tempts to Sin. Christ the Support of the Tempted Whether to Tempt is Proper to the Devil? Temptation Whether the Temptation of God Consists in Certain Deeds, Wherein ... Tenth Commandment The Worst Things Work for Good to the Godly An Exposition of Luke xxii. 46, Etc. Power and Temptation Servants and Stewards Here and Hereafter Thesaurus Tempts (1 Occurrence)...Tempts (1 Occurrence). James 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God," for God can't be tempted by evil, and he himself tempts no one. ... /t/tempts.htm - 6k Tempting (12 Occurrences) Gethsemane (2 Occurrences) Incapable (5 Occurrences) Tempter (3 Occurrences) Tempted (25 Occurrences) Temptation (22 Occurrences) Tempt (18 Occurrences) Can't (180 Occurrences) Passing (177 Occurrences) Resources How does Satan tempt us? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a succubus? What is an incubus? | GotQuestions.org What is the pride of life? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tempts (1 Occurrence)James 1:13 Subtopics Related Terms |
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