This phrase has confused people who have misinterpreted what Jesus was teaching us to pray. Let me first of all clarify that God does NOT lead us into temptation. He tempts no one to do wrong. God does not play games with us. It is the devil who tempts people into wrong doings to lead us astray from God.
"When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone;" (James 1:13)
More accurately, the phrase means "do not let us yield to temptation."
In Greek, from which the Bible we use was written, the word PEIRASMOS has two meanings. The same word is used for trial and temptation. So the phrase is more accurately "lead us not into trials/tests (which we cannot overcome)."
God does not test us. He already knows how we will react and behave in certain circumstances when things go wrong in our life, like health issues, finances, relationships and so on. He allows those things to happen in life in order to maintain our free will to behave as we want. To stop bad things from happening would be to interfere with our gifted free will.
He allows these tests (trials/temptations) to happen in order that we might grow and learn from them. In order that we can remember in future when other things happen how we behaved before and how God helped us in those difficulties. Our tests in life are milestones and reminders to turn to God for help whenever life is difficult.
The phrase could be more accurately translated as "don't let me be tested beyond my capabilities and strength".
But God will not allow us to be pushed to the limit, He is not in the business of losing His followers.
“Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps His promise, and He will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, He will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out”. (1 Corinthians Chapter 10 Verse 13).
...I thought that it was only in English where a word could have several meanings.
ReplyDeleteIt happens in other languages too, Tom. God bless.
DeleteThank you, John. Worthy thoughts to ponder thank you aloha
ReplyDeleteThank you and God bless you Cloudia.
DeleteI love how you've explained that segment of the Lord's Prayer so clearly, Victor. God will give us the strength to overcome our trials when we depend upon Him. Blessings always!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Martha. The words were misunderstood in translation over the years. As James said - God will not tempt us.
DeleteGod bless always.
Thank you for clarifying this line, Victor! (Sometimes I think I'm the only one confused.) I hope this doesn't sound like sacrilege, but I've taken to saying "LEAVE us not in temptation."
ReplyDeleteI understand, Mevely. Lead us/leave us not into a situation where we are tempted/tested (beyond our capabilities).
DeleteGod bless you.
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ReplyDeleteGod bless, Sandi.
ReplyDeleteExcellent. I had to teach at the ladies' circle on this very topic and what you have said is an excellent summary of the conclusions I gave.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mimi. God bless you.
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