1 Peter 1:6-9 Wherein you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, you are in heaviness through manifold temptations:… I. THE PROCESS OF TESTING A MAN'S FAITH INVOLVES MUCH PAIN. This we gather — 1. From the use of the word that describes the process — "temptation." 2. From the fact that those who are being tested are often possessed with "heaviness," "grief." 3. From the nature of the elements employed in the process. (1) No material element causes more pain than "fire." (2) These elements are "manifold." With those to whom Peter wrote it was Gentile scorn, slander, persecution, martyrdom. II. THE PROCESS OF TESTING A MAN'S FAITH IS OF SUCH SUPREME WORTH AS TO COMPENSATE FOR ALL SUCH PAIN. 1. The testing is only temporary. 2. The worth of the soul is tested. 3. The purpose of the process. (1) To try the genuineness of faith. (2) To remove alloy. (3) To train for highest uses. (4) To lead to highest destiny. (U. R. Thomas.) Parallel Verses KJV: Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: |
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