Trails and Their Objective

Value and Glory of Trials

What does the Apostle Peter say concerning the trials through which every believer must pass?

‘Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”

1 Peter 4:12,13.  

How important is the trial of our faith?

“These have come so that your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:7.  

What reason did Paul give for glorying in tribulations?

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Romans 5:3-5.  

Prophecy of Trials

What, according to the prophecy of Daniel, was to befall the people of God down through the ages?

“Those who are wise will instruct many, though for a time they will fall by the sword or to be burned or captured or plundered.” Daniel 11:33.

Why was this to be?

‘Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time.” Verse 35.

Looking forward to the conflicts through which His followers must pass, what cheering message did Christ send to them through the revelator?

“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you a crown of life.” Revelation 2:10, 11. 

How many does Paul say will suffer persecution?

“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

2 Timothy 3:12.

Trails in Ancient Times

What description does Paul give of the sufferings endured by some of God’s people in former ages?

“Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection. Some faced jeers and flogging, while others were chained and put into prison. They were stoned, they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated – the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground.”

Hebrews 11:35-38. 

Chastening and the Crown

Does God willingly afflict the children of men?

“For men are not cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men.” Lamentations 3:31-33.   

Why does God permit the chastening rod to fall?

“Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness.” Hebrews 12:10. 

Referring to Peter’s coming sore trial, for what did Christ say He had prayed?

“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:31,32.  

What cheering promise is made to those who endure the trials and temptations of this life?

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12.  

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