Religion Theology and Temptation Research Assignment - 550 Words

Religion Theology and Temptation Research Assignment (Essay Sample) Content: TemptationNameInstitutionTemptationIntroductionIn this world, temptations originate from many sources, such as relationship troubles, business misunderstandings, and conflicts of interests among others. As a result, one is always required to apply wisdom gained from spiritual teachings and the Word of God to withstand all temptations. It is easy to succumb to trials, but Christians should always remain alert to escape them at all costs. Therefore, understanding the meaning of temptation, its application and biblical perspective of the term allows one to devise best methods for remaining steadfast in faith and loyal to Gods will. Part 1: Definition of TemptationTemptation refers to the urge to do something that is contrary to set spiritual values. It begins with a desire to perform an act that is considered wrong, evil or unspiritual consciously or unconsciously. The initial interpretation involves subjecting one to trials with a purpose of strengthening them in their faith and helping them understand their weaknesses (Etzel Gutierrez, 2014). Also, a temptation is viewed as the plans of God and Satan, though both have different aftermaths. When the outcome is evil, the trials is termed as Satans doing, while a good result is referred to as Gods strategies to help His servants become stronger in faith and endurance. The testing of mans faith occurs on a daily basis in the world, but repentance always ensures one remains in the will of God. Therefore, understanding the stipulations of the Bible allows one to differentiate right from wrong whenever they are faced with any tempting situation.Part 2: Biblical Foundations for TemptationBased on the Bible, a temptation has two meanings. Firstly, it is a trial that God or Satan sets for an individual to test their faith. For instance, Abrahams faith was tested by God in Genesis 22:1, while Satan tested Job in Job 1:12 to proof that he was a faithful servant of the God. Secondly, the term means harborin g evil intentions and thoughts that cause one to sin. For example, in 2 Samuel 11, David had lustful desires for Uriahs wife Bathsheba, which motivated him to speed up Uriahs death in the battlefield by putting him in the front row to commit adultery with his wife.The Bible argues that temptations are common to everyone, but the ability to identify it varies from one person to the other. When the Holy Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness, the devil tempted him for different reasons (Etzel Gutierrez, 2014). It was meant to teach humans how to escape devils trials through quoting and believing in Holy Scriptures in the Bible. Temptations help to remind one to stay strong in their faith. According to Luke 8: 11-15, Jesus taught that people should work hard to nurture their faith but still be careful because the seed of temptation always destroys their effort. As a result, the ability to avoid temptations constantly calls for believers to pray to God for wisdom and understanding. In doin g so, one gets the knowledge to identify sources of temptations before they befall them.Part 3: Practical Application of TemptationImagine a situation where your neighbor comes to borrow some money to take her son in a critical condition to a hospital; you had planned to buy a TV set, would you sacrifice your personal desires for those of your neighbor? In such a situation, God puts one through trials to test their ability to assist their friends who are in need by sacrificing their personal needs. The Bible teaches us to share with the needy because it is Gods will, and only a person with strong faith can with...