In His parable of The Sower, Jesus describes the seed that fell upon rocky soil as follows: When they hear the word (of the gospel,) they immediately receive it with joy. Then, when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, they immediately fall away (Mark 4:16-17.) Here are people to whom trials are unexpected and unacceptable occurrences. They would sooner part company with Christ than endure any kind of hardship for His sake.
The apostle Peter addresses his first epistle to Christian people who were encountering trials. He informs them that they should not be surprised by such trials, which he identifies as “fiery,” thereby indicating the painfulness and intensity of those trials. He then explains to them that they are “participating in the sufferings of Christ” (1 Peter 4:12-13.)
The Scriptures make clear that trials of various kinds, and sometimes of great intensity (1 Peter 1:6 speaks of Christians being “put to grief by manifold trials,”) are an inevitable part of the Christian’s experience in this present world. Just as trials come in a multitude of forms, so, too, Scripture indicates they serve a variety of purposes in the lives of God’s people.
For more on this topic, check out the Bible study courses on Trials in the Christian’s Life. Those who are interested in an in-depth consideration of this topic are referred to the Bible study course on the Book of Job.
TRIALS IN THE CHRISTIAN’S LIFE
What To Do When You Are Tested By God (Genesis 21:1-21; 22:1-19)This Bible study course, dealing with Abraham’s offering up of his son Isaac, discusses some of God’s purposes in subjecting the Christian to trials and testing.
Let The Promises Of God Sustain You (Genesis 35:9-29)This Bible study course, focusing on Jacob’s life and testimony, encourages the Christian to allow the promises of God to sustain him in times of trial or testing.
Don’t Be Surprised By Trials (Genesis 37:1-36)This Bible study course, focusing on the life of Joseph, considers one of the purposes of God-appointed trials in the lives of His people.
God’s Character-Shaping Work (Genesis 37:1-28; 50:15-21)This Bible study course, focusing on the lives of Joseph’s brothers, considers the necessity of sanctifying trials in the Christian’s life.
What To Do When You Face (Spiritual) Opposition (Exodus 4:27-6:13)This Bible study course, considering Moses’ plight before Pharaoh, instructs the Christian what to do when he encounters spiritual opposition.
Trust The Lord To Take Care Of You (Isaiah 46:1-13)This Bible study course, based on the Lord’s testimony given in Isaiah 46:1-13, assures the Christian that he may trust the Lord to take care of him throughout all the circumstances and years of his life.
The Challenge (Mark 1:9-13)This Bible study course, focusing on Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, informs the Christian that he can expect to have his devotion to the Lord challenged by the devil.
How To Successfully Combat Temptation (John 13:36-38; 18:15-18,25-27)This Bible study course, based on Jesus’ warning to Peter prior to the latter’s denial of his Lord, instructs us as to what is the key element in successfully combating temptation or withstanding trial.
Three Measures For Successful Spiritual Warfare (Ephesians 6:10-24)This Bible study course, based upon the apostle Paul’s presentation of the whole armor of God, discusses the means by which the Christian can wage successful spiritual warfare.
Live A Life Worthy Of The Gospel (Philippians 1:27-30)This Bible study course, based on the apostle Paul’s counsel imparted to the Philippians, instructs us how we as Christians are to view trials and hardships endured for Christ.
When You Suffer For Righteousness’ Sake (1 Peter 3:13-20)This Bible study course, based on the apostle Peter’s counsel given in 1 Peter 3:13-20, instructs the Christian with regard to how he is required by God to handle unjust treatment.
