WhatsDifficult:

But here's the reason 4 asking
Ur explanation says God doesn't test people.
Multiple verses in the Bible also say that God tests people.
So how do you choose which one to believe?

The highlighted is what you misconstrued!

It's not my explanation but what a Born Again Christian said:

When under trial, let no one say: “I am being tried by God.” For with evil things God cannot be tried, nor does he himself try anyone. James 1:13

Genesis to Malachi is the Hebrew-Aramaic Scriptures written by inspired Israelite prophets who only pen down what they heard or saw but from Matthew to Revelations was written by BORN AGAIN Christians who has been taught by God's only begotten Son to distinguish between right and wrong.

So whatever you find in the Bible that's not in harmony with what the BORN AGAIN Christians say know that the correction in our understanding has been made.

That's why you can't find a single verse in the New Testament where it's written that God tested anyone with evil things!

MaxInDHouse:


The highlighted is what you misconstrued!

It's not my explanation but what a Born Again Christian said:

When under trial, let no one say: “I am being tried by God.” For with evil things God cannot be tried, nor does he himself try anyone. James 1:13

Genesis to Malachi is the Hebrew-Aramaic Scriptures written by inspired Israelite prophets who only pen down what they heard or saw but from Matthew to Revelations was written by BORN AGAIN Christians who has been taught by God's only begotten Son to distinguish between right and wrong.

So whatever you find in the Bible that's not in harmony with what the BORN AGAIN Christians say know that the correction in our understanding has been made.

That's why you can't find a single verse in the New Testament where it's written that God tested anyone with evil things!

Lyk u said I will need another teacher that can xplain all this things
One moment they are saying something good, then another moment they are saying something funny

God knows av been trying 2 learn His truths

WhatsDifficult:


Lyk u said I will need another teacher that can xplain all this things
One moment they are saying something good, then another moment they are saying something funny

God knows av been trying 2 learn His truths

You say you're trying to learn
If you're open minded and willing, I could explain my point of view to you.

Are you a Christian? If yes, do you know how to use a Bible Concordance?

WhatsDifficult:

God knows av been trying 2 learn His truths

Nobody is to be taken as your Lord except Jesus Christ because he is a perfect counselor {Isaiah 9:6} so whenever anyone is teaching you the first thing you should consider is what church is such a person attending?
And how dedicated are members of that church in the preaching and teaching work Jesus assigned to his disciples?

If the person is not a member of a zealous group known for that work know that their church is not producing the FRUIT expected of God's people {Matthew 7:16-18} so such a person is not worth listening to as his faith is not worth emulating! Hebrews 13:7

PulsingPurple:


You say you're trying to learn
If you're open minded and willing, I could explain my point of view to you.

Are you a Christian? If yes, do you know how to use a Bible Concordance?

OK but I'm nit sure of the concordance u are talking about. I don't belong to any religion but I'm trying to be a christian
I also read the bible very well

WhatsDifficult:


OK but I'm nit sure of the concordance u are talking about. I don't belong to any religion but I'm trying to be a christian
I also read the bible very well

Should I reach out to you through WhatsApp?
Most of these things are easier said through voicenote.

Then also, i think it'll be good to create a thread for explaining/discussing simple stuff and the basics of Christianity to people who are trying to take a stance.

mtech23:
There will be no Religion

Christianity is never a religion. The word was first used in Antioch to address the disciples of Christ because of their Christ like attitudes. It is a way of salvation which ensues righteousness. God never creates religion but men does.

PulsingPurple:


Should I reach out to you through WhatsApp?
Most of these things are easier said through voicenote.

Then also, i think it'll be good to create a thread for explaining/discussing simple stuff and the basics of Christianity to people who are trying to take a stance.

No problem

MaxInDHouse:


In the Bible book of Proverbs 2:1-5

READ:

My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.Proverbs 2:1-5

You either agree that God doesn't test anyone with evil things {James 1:13} or read without anyone to explain who is behind the evil test! Revelations 12:10

Is it satan that was spoken in Gen 22:1-19? I don't think you know what you're saying at all

47,000 interpretations of what? You sound uneducated and ignorant. Can you cite any academic references from credible scholars to support your position, or are you just another retarded atheist with a room temperature IQ?

Kobojunkie:
Christianity with its over 47,000 different interpretations, and denominations it calls them has no direct connection to Scripture and Jesus Christ which it pretends it holds to.

Quote chapter and verse from the Book of Genesis or any other Old Testament book which supports your theory.

MaxInDHouse:
A diligent study and thorough meditation on what the scriptures later revealed that the idea to sacrifice Isaac wasn't from God but Satan and since Abraham passed the test Satan left him searching for someone else to accuse on the basis of faith in God!

That's why it wasn't repeated neither does it become a common practice among God's people!

ShoeGetSize:
■ 47,000 interpretations of what? You sound uneducated and ignorant. Can you cite any academic references from credible scholars to support your position, or are you just another retarded atheist with a room temperature IQ?

https://www.livescience.com/christianity-denominations.html

Followers of Jesus span the globe. But the global body of more than 2 billion Christians is separated into thousands of denominations. Pentecostal, Presbyterian, Lutheran, Baptist, Apostolic, Methodist — the list goes on. Estimations show there are more than 200 Christian denominations in the U.S. and a staggering 45,000 globally, according to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity. So why does Christianity have so many branches?
A cursory look shows that differences in belief, power grabs and corruption all had a part to play.
But on some level, differentiation and variety have been markers of Christianity since the very beginning, according to Diarmaid MacCulloch, professor emeritus of church history at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. "There's never been a united Christianity," he told Live Science.

This was as of 2022. Ignorance surely isn't bliss, is it?
https://omsc.ptsem.edu/the-annual-statistical-table

One of our most cited statistics is the number of denominations in the world, this year estimated as a perhaps shocking 47,000. As a result, the 2024 annual statistical table discusses “fragmentation and unity” in World Christianity. We identify some of the larger umbrella organizations that seek to bring together segments of Christianity’s four major traditions (Catholics, Independents, Orthodox, Protestants), two movements within these traditions (Evangelicals, Pentecostals/Charismatics), and 47,000 denominations. These organizations supplement the work of dozens of global denominational bodies of specific Christian communities such as the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox, Anglicans, Baptist World Alliance (BWA), World Methodist Council (WMC), Lutheran World Federation (LWF), World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), and many others. The article does not provide a comprehensive history of 20th-century ecumenical efforts across all major Christian bodies, but rather offers short profiles of some Christian groups that address fragmentation largely within their own global Christian bodies (for example, Evangelicals working across Evangelical traditions, and Pentecostals working across the Pentecostal/Charismatic movement). These umbrella organizations offer a place for Christians of various backgrounds to meet, to share, to fellowship, and, sometimes, to plan. They provide an invaluable service to all Christians by recognizing commonalities while valuing difference. They also represent strategies to address fragmentation in the churches with the ongoing theme of unity in diversity and the desire that “They all may be one.”

This is as of 2024. Again, Ignorance is not bliss, right?

WhatsDifficult:


No problem

It was a pleasure speaking with you.
Here's what I typed out for you initially... Hopefully someone else will find it useful.


What you're trying to make sense of is the sacrifice of Isaac, if it was a plot from the Almighty God or the Devil.
And also maybe trying to understand the concept of James 1:13.

I love making this statement: God is a God of Laws and Principles, and even He (God) obeys and lives by His own Principles (All these will make sense when you start understanding the Scriptures more and more).

So let's start by establishing the fact that the group of Scriptures regarded as the Old Testament were written with so many (hidden) symbolisms and representations.
It's why we no longer practice many Jewish Laws of the time— because we've understood what they represented and we're practicing them in new ways.
Paul speaking in Colossians 2 gives a little detail. He says,
“[16] Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.
[17] These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
[18] Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind.”

Now moving to Isaac's sacrifice, one of the Principles that God showed is regarding the law that all first seeds of God's people belonged to Him (God).
Which includes first harvest, first born of livestock, and yes even the firstborn son.
We can see Scriptures re-echo this command all through, but I'll point out ‭Nehemiah 10:36
“As it is also written in the Law, we will bring the firstborn of our sons and of our cattle, of our herds and of our flocks to the house of our God, to the priests ministering there.”

Why were they bringing their firstborn sons for?
Simple, for redemption.
There was the law that every first born son belonged to God.

We see the scriptures place special emphasis on firstborns in the Old Testament Books.
Even as far as God sending an Angel to kill the firstborns of every family in the land of Egypt (except the ones from the houses in which a lamb already died).

Now, ‭Genesis 22:1-13
“[1] Some time later God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he answered.
[2] “Take your son,” God said, “your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah. Offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you.”
...
[6] Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac. He himself carried the fire and the sacrificial knife, and the two of them walked on together.
[7] Then Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” “Here I am, my son,” he replied. “The fire and the wood are here,” said Isaac, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”
[8] Abraham answered, “God Himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two walked on together.
[9] When they arrived at the place God had designated, Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood. He bound his son Isaac and placed him on the altar, atop the wood.
[10] Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son.
[11] Just then the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham, Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied.
[12] “Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him,” said the angel, “for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from me.”
[13] Then Abraham looked up and saw behind him a ram in a thicket, caught by its horns. So he went and took the ram and offered it as a burnt offering in place of his son.”

Question from the bold: Without a 'test', how will the Angel 'know' that you 'fear God'?

Few things is 100% clear and non-negotiable
1. Abraham was a 'friend' of God and knew it was God that spoke to him.
2. This Scripture was written under inspiration of the Spirit Of God, hence it's true.
3. The Scripture made it clear that God was the One 'testing' Abraham.

One mistake I observed in the earlier teacher's explanation is the mixup of language.
The meaning of the Hebrew word that translates as 'tempt' has a totally different meaning from the meaning we hold today.
To 'tempt' in Bible usage generally meant to test, to examine, to make someone prove himself/herself, etc. as compared to now where we consider the word tempt to mean urge someone to commit sin.

So when God says he tempted/tested Abraham, He meant that he made Abraham prove himself, as you can see at the ending of those Scriptures.

We can also see some symbolisms there, for instance, Isaac was to die, but a ram took his place— we also were to die but the Lamb of God takes our place.
The site where Abraham was to slaughter Isaac is the site where the temple of God was built by Solomon.

(You can't say the devil plotted this much...)

Then we arrive back at James 1:13
[12] 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.
[13] When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone.
[14] But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed.”

After reading verse 13, you also read numerous verses throughout the Bible that says God will test(tempt) the righteous and verses that also say people tested(tempted God). And you conclude it's a paradox right?
No.

It's all about usage. The usage isn't the same usage.
In fact, the Greek word 'πειράζω' which is translated as tempt is the same word used in John 6:6,
“‭But He (Jesus) was asking this to test (πειράζω) him (Phillip), for He knew what He was about to do.”

Will you say Jesus tempted (tested) Phillip in the same manner the Devil will tempt you to sin?

In summary, James 1:13 says God won't tempt you to do evil. Instead, you get tempted (by the devil) because you're prone to the desires of the flesh.
It says that whenever you feel that yearning to do evil (even if it's for a good cause), that's not God.

This is different from Abraham.
Abraham was not feeling tempted to kill his son, he was commanded to do so.
And in obeying, he proved himself to God.

God will always test the faith of His people in one way or the other, whether by considering how we react to the devil's temptations or by straight-up instructing us to do something that seems impossible.
But either ways, whatever we'll be tested/tempted with will be what we can endure. (1 Cor. 10:13).

You said 47,000 interpretations of something you didn't have the iq to explain! 47, 000 interpretations of nothing does not mean the same thing as 47,000 denominations, that's even assuming the link you supplied is even true.

A Christian is someone who believes that Christ is God, that He was born to a virgin, died and was resurrected for the sins of mankind and He will return one day to judge the world.

Anyone who doesn't believe these articles of faith is not regarded as a Christian even if he or she calls himself one.

Kobojunkie:
https://www.livescience.com/christianity-denominations.html
This was as of 2022. Ignorance surely isn't bliss, is it?

WhatsDifficult:


No problem

I'll also create the thread on the basics of Christianity when I have time.

Brilliant Biblical Exegesis. Hope you don't mind if I use your post to answer the objections of unbelievers.

PulsingPurple:


It was a pleasure speaking with you.
Here's what I typed out for you initially... Hopefully someone else will find it useful.


What you're trying to make sense of is the sacrifice of Isaac, if it was a plot from the Almighty God or the Devil.
And also maybe trying to understand the concept of James 1:13.

I love making this statement: God is a God of Laws and Principles, and even He (God) obeys and lives by His own Principles (All these will make sense when you start understanding the Scriptures more and more).

So let's start by establishing the fact that the group of Scriptures regarded as the Old Testament were written with so many (hidden) symbolisms and representations.
It's why we no longer practice many Jewish Laws of the time— because we've understood what they represented and we're practicing them in new ways.
Paul speaking in Colossians 2 gives a little detail. He says,
“[16] Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.
[17] These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
[18] Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind.”

Now moving to Isaac's sacrifice, one of the Principles that God showed is regarding the law that all first seeds of God's people belonged to Him (God).
Which includes first harvest, first born of livestock, and yes even the firstborn son.
We can see Scriptures re-echo this command all through, but I'll point out ‭Nehemiah 10:36
“As it is also written in the Law, we will bring the firstborn of our sons and of our cattle, of our herds and of our flocks to the house of our God, to the priests ministering there.”

Why were they bringing their firstborn sons for?
Simple, for redemption.
There was the law that every first born son belonged to God.

We see the scriptures place special emphasis on firstborns in the Old Testament Books.
Even as far as God sending an Angel to kill the firstborns of every family in the land of Egypt (except the ones from the houses in which a lamb already died).

Now, ‭Genesis 22:1-13
“[1] Some time later God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he answered.
[2] “Take your son,” God said, “your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah. Offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you.”
...
[6] Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac. He himself carried the fire and the sacrificial knife, and the two of them walked on together.
[7] Then Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” “Here I am, my son,” he replied. “The fire and the wood are here,” said Isaac, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”
[8] Abraham answered, “God Himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two walked on together.
[9] When they arrived at the place God had designated, Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood. He bound his son Isaac and placed him on the altar, atop the wood.
[10] Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son.
[11] Just then the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham, Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied.
[12] “Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him,” said the angel, “for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from me.”
[13] Then Abraham looked up and saw behind him a ram in a thicket, caught by its horns. So he went and took the ram and offered it as a burnt offering in place of his son.”

Question from the bold: Without a 'test', how will the Angel 'know' that you 'fear God'?

Few things is 100% clear and non-negotiable
1. Abraham was a 'friend' of God and knew it was God that spoke to him.
2. This Scripture was written under inspiration of the Spirit Of God, hence it's true.
3. The Scripture made it clear that God was the One 'testing' Abraham.

One mistake I observed in the earlier teacher's explanation is the mixup of language.
The meaning of the Hebrew word that translates as 'tempt' has a totally different meaning from the meaning we hold today.
To 'tempt' in Bible usage generally meant to test, to examine, to make someone prove himself/herself, etc. as compared to now where we consider the word tempt to mean urge someone to commit sin.

So when God says he tempted/tested Abraham, He meant that he made Abraham prove himself, as you can see at the ending of those Scriptures.

We can also see some symbolisms there, for instance, Isaac was to die, but a ram took his place— we also were to die but the Lamb of God takes our place.
The site where Abraham was to slaughter Isaac is the site where the temple of God was built by Solomon.

(You can't say the devil plotted this much...)

Then we arrive back at James 1:13
[12] 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.
[13] When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone.
[14] But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed.”

After reading verse 13, you also read numerous verses throughout the Bible that says God will test(tempt) the righteous and verses that also say people tested(tempted God). And you conclude it's a paradox right?
No.

It's all about usage. The usage isn't the same usage.
In fact, the Greek word 'πειράζω' which is translated as tempt is the same word used in John 6:6,
“‭But He (Jesus) was asking this to test (πειράζω) him (Phillip), for He knew what He was about to do.”

Will you say Jesus tempted (tested) Phillip in the same manner the Devil will tempt you to sin?

In summary, James 1:13 says God won't tempt you to do evil. Instead, you get tempted (by the devil) because you're prone to the desires of the flesh.
It says that whenever you feel that yearning to do evil (even if it's for a good cause), that's not God.

This is different from Abraham.
Abraham was not feeling tempted to kill his son, he was commanded to do so.
And in obeying, he proved himself to God.

God will always test the faith of His people in one way or the other, whether by considering how we react to the devil's temptations or by straight-up instructing us to do something that seems impossible.
But either ways, whatever we'll be tested/tempted with will be what we can endure. (1 Cor. 10:13).

ShoeGetSize:
■ You said 47,000 interpretations of something you didn't have the iq to explain! 47, 000 interpretations of nothing does not mean the same thing as 47,000 denominations, that's even assuming the link you supplied is even true. A Christian is someone who believes that Christ is God, that He was born to a virgin, died and was resurrected for the sins of mankind and He will return one day to judge the world. Anyone who doesn't believe these articles of faith is not regarded as a Christian even if he or she calls himself one.

So, you don't see for yourself how the existence of over 47,0000 denominations invariably means there are at least 47,000 different interpretations of scripture, and you think blaming me for your inability to comprehend this simple thing is the best thing to do? You actually think your ignorance is to be blamed on my IQ? 🤔🤔🤔🤔

Make una come help me see the clear result of what is religious mindfuckery abeg! 😶😶😶🤐🤐🤐

Most schisms in the church happened on the basis of differences of opinion over structural organisation not interpretation of Scripture.

I noticed that your link mentioned Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons as Christians which made me laugh. Ignorance is truly a curse.

Kobojunkie:
So, you don't see for yourself how the existence of over 47,0000 denominations invariably means there are at least 47,000 different interpretations of scripture, and you think blaming me for your inability to comprehend this simple thing is the best thing to do? You actually think your ignorance is to be blamed on my IQ? 🤔🤔🤔🤔

ShoeGetSize:
■ Most schisms in the church happened on the basis of differences of opinion over structural organisation not interpretation of Scripture. I noticed that your link mentioned Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons as Christians which made me laugh. Ignorance is truly a curse.

😣😣😣

Again, so, you don't see for yourself how the existence of over 47,0000 denominations invariably means there are at least 47,000 different interpretations of scripture, and you think blaming me for your inability to comprehend this simple thing is the best thing to do? You actually think your ignorance is to be blamed on my IQ? 🤔🤔🤔🤔

Make una come help me see the clear result of what is religious mindfuckery abeg! 😶😶😶🤐🤐🤐

PulsingPurple:


It was a pleasure speaking with you.
Here's what I typed out for you initially... Hopefully someone else will find it useful.


What you're trying to make sense of is the sacrifice of Isaac, if it was a plot from the Almighty God or the Devil.
And also maybe trying to understand the concept of James 1:13.

I love making this statement: God is a God of Laws and Principles, and even He (God) obeys and lives by His own Principles (All these will make sense when you start understanding the Scriptures more and more).

So let's start by establishing the fact that the group of Scriptures regarded as the Old Testament were written with so many (hidden) symbolisms and representations.
It's why we no longer practice many Jewish Laws of the time— because we've understood what they represented and we're practicing them in new ways.
Paul speaking in Colossians 2 gives a little detail. He says,
“[16] Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.
[17] These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
[18] Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind.”

Now moving to Isaac's sacrifice, one of the Principles that God showed is regarding the law that all first seeds of God's people belonged to Him (God).
Which includes first harvest, first born of livestock, and yes even the firstborn son.
We can see Scriptures re-echo this command all through, but I'll point out ‭Nehemiah 10:36
“As it is also written in the Law, we will bring the firstborn of our sons and of our cattle, of our herds and of our flocks to the house of our God, to the priests ministering there.”

Why were they bringing their firstborn sons for?
Simple, for redemption.
There was the law that every first born son belonged to God.

We see the scriptures place special emphasis on firstborns in the Old Testament Books.
Even as far as God sending an Angel to kill the firstborns of every family in the land of Egypt (except the ones from the houses in which a lamb already died).

Now, ‭Genesis 22:1-13
“[1] Some time later God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he answered.
[2] “Take your son,” God said, “your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah. Offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you.”
...
[6] Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac. He himself carried the fire and the sacrificial knife, and the two of them walked on together.
[7] Then Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” “Here I am, my son,” he replied. “The fire and the wood are here,” said Isaac, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”
[8] Abraham answered, “God Himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two walked on together.
[9] When they arrived at the place God had designated, Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood. He bound his son Isaac and placed him on the altar, atop the wood.
[10] Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son.
[11] Just then the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham, Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied.
[12] “Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him,” said the angel, “for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from me.”
[13] Then Abraham looked up and saw behind him a ram in a thicket, caught by its horns. So he went and took the ram and offered it as a burnt offering in place of his son.”

Question from the bold: Without a 'test', how will the Angel 'know' that you 'fear God'?

Few things is 100% clear and non-negotiable
1. Abraham was a 'friend' of God and knew it was God that spoke to him.
2. This Scripture was written under inspiration of the Spirit Of God, hence it's true.
3. The Scripture made it clear that God was the One 'testing' Abraham.

One mistake I observed in the earlier teacher's explanation is the mixup of language.
The meaning of the Hebrew word that translates as 'tempt' has a totally different meaning from the meaning we hold today.
To 'tempt' in Bible usage generally meant to test, to examine, to make someone prove himself/herself, etc. as compared to now where we consider the word tempt to mean urge someone to commit sin.

So when God says he tempted/tested Abraham, He meant that he made Abraham prove himself, as you can see at the ending of those Scriptures.

We can also see some symbolisms there, for instance, Isaac was to die, but a ram took his place— we also were to die but the Lamb of God takes our place.
The site where Abraham was to slaughter Isaac is the site where the temple of God was built by Solomon.

(You can't say the devil plotted this much...)

Then we arrive back at James 1:13
[12] 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.
[13] When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone.
[14] But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed.”

After reading verse 13, you also read numerous verses throughout the Bible that says God will test(tempt) the righteous and verses that also say people tested(tempted God). And you conclude it's a paradox right?
No.

It's all about usage. The usage isn't the same usage.
In fact, the Greek word 'πειράζω' which is translated as tempt is the same word used in John 6:6,
“‭But He (Jesus) was asking this to test (πειράζω) him (Phillip), for He knew what He was about to do.”

Will you say Jesus tempted (tested) Phillip in the same manner the Devil will tempt you to sin?

In summary, James 1:13 says God won't tempt you to do evil. Instead, you get tempted (by the devil) because you're prone to the desires of the flesh.
It says that whenever you feel that yearning to do evil (even if it's for a good cause), that's not God.

This is different from Abraham.
Abraham was not feeling tempted to kill his son, he was commanded to do so.
And in obeying, he proved himself to God.

God will always test the faith of His people in one way or the other, whether by considering how we react to the devil's temptations or by straight-up instructing us to do something that seems impossible.
But either ways, whatever we'll be tested/tempted with will be what we can endure. (1 Cor. 10:13).

Tnk you so much sir.
No wonder you say it is too long to type

PulsingPurple:


I'll also create the thread on the basics of Christianity when I have time.

OK no problem pls let me know when u do

MaxInDHouse:


Nobody is to be taken as your Lord except Jesus Christ because he is a perfect counselor {Isaiah 9:6} so whenever anyone is teaching you the first thing you should consider is what church is such a person attending?
And how dedicated are members of that church in the preaching and teaching work Jesus assigned to his disciples?

If the person is not a member of a zealous group known for that work know that their church is not producing the FRUIT expected of God's people {Matthew 7:16-18} so such a person is not worth listening to as his faith is not worth emulating! Hebrews 13:7

What if u r a zealous group that is going about preaching rubbish?

You know, I feel sorry for people like you who have to live under the burden of the Dunning Krueger effect.

I gave a simple explanation of what it means to be a Christian and how it doesn't matter how many "denominations" there are as long as they all profess these common articles of faith, but such is the curse of a low IQ that you can't even grasp the simplest of explanations.

Okay, let me make it even simpler for you: Give me at least 10 interpretations out of the 47,000 that you claim Christians are divided into. To make your assignment even easier, You can pick the ten most common ones.

Let's see the amateur level mental gymnastics you will employ in escaping from this homework, as simple as it is🤣

Kobojunkie:
😣😣😣

Again, so, you don't see for yourself how the existence of over 47,0000 denominations invariably means there are at least 47,000 different interpretations of scripture, and you think blaming me for your inability to comprehend this simple thing is the best thing to do? You actually think your ignorance is to be blamed on my IQ? 🤔🤔🤔🤔

Make una come help me see the clear result of what is religious mindfuckery abeg! 😶😶😶🤐🤐🤐

WhatsDifficult:
■ OK no problem pls let me know when u do

Don't forget to investigate the 47,000 other interpretations/denominations of Christianity right after that. They may not all have representatives here on Nairaland like this one does but each one of them equally claims to be the right interpretation of Scripture that does not in any way resemble what they spew and has not changed at all in almost 2000 years.

ShoeGetSize:
You know, I feel sorry for people like you who have to live under the burden of the Dunning Krueger effect. I gave a simple explanation of what it means to be a Christian and how it doesn't matter how many "denominations" there are as long as they all profess these common articles of faith, but such is the curse of a low IQ that you can't even grasp the simplest of explanations. Okay, let me make it even simpler for you: Give me at least 10 interpretations out of the 47,000 that you claim Christians are divided into. To make your assignment even easier, You can pick the ten most common ones. Let's see the amateur level mental gymnastics you will employ in escaping from this homework, as simple as it is🤣

😣😣😣

Again, so, you don't see for yourself how the existence of over 47,0000 denominations invariably means there are at least 47,000 different interpretations of scripture, and you think blaming me for your inability to comprehend this simple thing is the best thing to do? You actually think your ignorance is to be blamed on my IQ? 🤔🤔🤔🤔

Make una come help me see the clear result of what is religious mindfuckery abeg! 😶😶😶🤐🤐🤐

WhatsDifficult:


OK no problem pls let me know when u do

I will. 🙌🏽

WhatsDifficult:


Tnk you so much sir.
No wonder you say it is too long to type

You're welcome. 😅
I'll try to be typing more often if I have time.

ShoeGetSize:
Brilliant Biblical Exegesis. Hope you don't mind if I use your post to answer the objections of unbelievers.

Ahh... No problem 🤲🏽

If they're unbelievers, are sure they will believe?

My response will be for open minded people who are ready to crosscheck and object in a civilized manner if need be... But carry on 😌🙌🏽

Kobojunkie:
Don't forget to investigate the 47,000 other interpretations/denominations of Christianity right after that. They may not all have representatives here on Nairaland like this one does but each one of them equally claims to be the right interpretation of Scripture that does not in any way resemble what they spew and has not changed at all in almost 2000 years.

Omo my brain is hot
I don't understand u

WhatsDifficult:


What if u r a zealous group that is going about preaching rubbish?

You this woman... No cause vawulence oo 😅

WhatsDifficult:
■ Omo my brain is hot I don't understand u

LOL... The scam that is Christianity has over 47,000 different interpretations, all of them lies since absolutely none of them complies with all that is stated in Scripture as stated by the Truth of God Himself, Jesus Christ. Does this help your head now?

So out of the so called 47,000 interpretations of "nothing" which you claim means the same thing as 47,000 denominations, you couldn't even find 10 of the most popular "interpretations" which could validate or give credence to your claims!😂

I'm done. Dealing with stupidity is bad for my health. You really earned that "junkie" in your name.

Kobojunkie:
😣😣😣

Again, so, you don't see for yourself how the existence of over 47,0000 denominations invariably means there are at least 47,000 different interpretations of scripture, and you think blaming me for your inability to comprehend this simple thing is the best thing to do? You actually think your ignorance is to be blamed on my IQ? 🤔🤔🤔🤔

Make una come help me see the clear result of what is religious mindfuckery abeg! 😶😶😶🤐🤐🤐