Topical Bible: Temptation: Permitted As a Trial of Disinterestedness

◄ Temptation: Permitted As a Trial of Disinterestedness ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the Christian understanding, temptation is often seen as a test or trial allowed by God to examine the faithfulness and purity of one's devotion to Him. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where various figures undergo trials that test their commitment to God without expectation of personal gain, a state known as disinterestedness.

Biblical Examples

1. Abraham's Test: One of the most profound examples of temptation as a trial of disinterestedness is found in the account of Abraham. In Genesis 22, God commands Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac. This command tests Abraham's faith and obedience, challenging him to trust God without any promise of reward. Abraham's willingness to obey, even at great personal cost, demonstrates his disinterested devotion. The Berean Standard Bible records God's commendation: "Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him. For now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from Me" (Genesis 22:12).

2. Job's Suffering: The Book of Job presents another significant example. Job is described as "blameless and upright" (Job 1:1), yet he undergoes severe trials, losing his wealth, health, and family. These trials are permitted by God to test Job's righteousness and devotion. Despite his suffering, Job maintains his integrity, exemplifying disinterestedness by worshiping God without expectation of reward: "Though He slay me, I will hope in Him" (Job 13:15).

3. Jesus' Temptation: In the New Testament, Jesus Himself is subjected to temptation. In the wilderness, Satan tempts Jesus with physical sustenance, power, and glory (Matthew 4:1-11). Jesus resists these temptations, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to the Father's will. His responses, rooted in Scripture, highlight His disinterestedness, as He seeks to fulfill His mission without succumbing to worldly allurements.

Theological Insights

Theologically, temptation as a trial of disinterestedness serves several purposes:

· Purification of Faith: Temptation refines and purifies the believer's faith, stripping away selfish motives and revealing the true nature of one's devotion to God. As James writes, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:2-3).

· Demonstration of Love: True love for God is demonstrated through obedience and faithfulness, even when no immediate benefit is apparent. Jesus teaches, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15), emphasizing that genuine love is selfless and disinterested.

· Spiritual Growth: Trials and temptations are opportunities for spiritual growth and maturity. The Apostle Paul notes, "We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4).

Practical Implications

For believers, understanding temptation as a trial of disinterestedness encourages a focus on God's glory rather than personal gain. It calls for a steadfast commitment to God's will, trusting in His sovereignty and goodness. This perspective fosters a deeper relationship with God, characterized by trust, obedience, and love that transcends circumstances.

In prayer and daily life, Christians are encouraged to seek God's strength to withstand temptation, as Jesus taught in the Lord's Prayer: "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" (Matthew 6:13). This petition acknowledges human weakness and the need for divine assistance in maintaining a disinterested devotion to God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 1:9-12
Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Does Job fear God for nothing?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Deists.
... To this temptation Tindal yielded. ... 'Pope,' says Ruffhead, 'permitted Bolingbroke
to be ... Wharton says that 'Sherlock's Discourses on Prophecy and Trial of the ...
/.../abbey/the english church in the eighteenth century/chapter iii the deists.htm