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St. Cuthbert Anglican Church | "Growing, Knowing & Sharing God's Love" | |
St. Cuthbert's, here is your weekly focus on things that are
happening in the parish. Read and stay connected.
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Temptation vs. Testing: Does God Really Allow Us To Be Tested?
So the other day I read this verse in my Bible Reading time:
“So, if you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall. No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it”
(1 Corinthians 10:1-13)
and the question that came to my mind, that I think comes to almost anyone who meditates on this, is that “Does God really allow us to be tested?”
In 1 Corinthians 10:1–13, the Apostle Paul offers a profound reflection on spiritual vigilance, human vulnerability, and divine faithfulness. Addressing the believers at Corinth, Paul draws upon Israel’s wilderness journey to illustrate a critical lesson: past spiritual experiences and present confidence do not render anyone immune to moral failure. By examining this passage, we gain essential insight into the dynamics of temptation, human weakness, and the true character of God when we face trials.
Israel’s Example: A Call to Spiritual Vigilance
Paul opens the chapter by recalling how God miraculously guided, protected, and sustained Israel in the wilderness (v. 1–4). They all passed through the Red Sea, ate spiritual food, and drank spiritual water. Yet, despite these extraordinary blessings, many yielded to idolatry, immorality, and grumbling, ultimately falling in the wilderness (v. 5–10).
Paul stresses that these events occurred as warning examples for us (v. 6, 11). His conclusion in verse 12 serves as a sharp wake-up call:
“So if you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall.”
Overconfidence is often the prelude to a fall. Spiritual pride blinds us to our own fragility, leading us to rely on self-sufficiency rather than constant dependence on God.
Temptation vs. Testing: Understanding the Distinction
The central question raised by verse 13 revolves around the nature of tests and temptations: Does God allow us to be tested?
Scripture makes a clear distinction between temptation and testing:
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Temptation seeks to entice us into sin and destruction (James 1:13–14). God never tempts anyone with evil.
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Testing or Trialling, however, is designed to refine our faith, reveal our hearts, and cultivate spiritual endurance (James 1:2–4; 1 Peter 1:6–7).
God does permit God’s children to go through trials and face moments of severe pressure, but God’s motivation is always constructive—to strengthen and mature our reliance on God.
The Divine Promise: Three Anchors in the Storm
Verse 13 provides one of the most comforting and practical promises in all of Scripture regarding human trial. Paul highlights three crucial truths:
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Commonality: "No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone." Isolation is one of the enemy's most effective tools. Knowing that our struggles are shared by humanity breaks the illusion that we are alone or uniquely broken.
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God’s Faithfulness and Limits: “God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength...” God actively monitors the intensity of our trials. He knows our limits even when we feel overwhelmed, ensuring that no circumstance exceeds the grace and capability He provides to endure it.
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The Way Out: “...but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.” God never leaves us trapped. The “way out” is rarely an escape from reality, but rather the spiritual strength, wisdom, and grace necessary to endure without compromising our integrity.
Walking in Victory
1 Corinthians 10:1–13 reminds us that victory over temptation is neither automatic nor rooted in self-reliance. It requires humble vigilance, an awareness of our human limitations, and steadfast trust in a faithful God who promises to sustain us through every trial. And if ever you thought you are the only one in this boat please think of this list of prominent figures who had their faith, obedience, or character tested by God or through major trials:
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Adam and Eve: Tested in the Garden of Eden regarding obedience and eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2–3).
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Abraham: Tested through his willingness to offer his son Isaac and through major life journeys of faith (Genesis 22:1; Hebrews 11:17).
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Job: Tested through the sudden loss of his wealth, children, and health while trying to maintain his integrity (Job 1–2).
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Moses: Tested through the heavy burden of leadership, prolonged time in the wilderness, and the constant complaining of the Israelites (Numbers 12:1–3).
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Joseph: Tested through betrayal by his brothers, slavery, false accusation, and imprisonment before being elevated in Egypt (Psalm 105:19).
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Gideon: Tested when God reduced his army size before battle to make him rely completely on divine strength rather than numbers (Judges 7:4).
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King Hezekiah: Tested by God through the visit of the Babylonian messengers to see what was truly in his heart (2 Chronicles 32:31).
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Daniel: Tested by political pressure and imperial decrees that forced a choice between compromise and faithfulness to God (Daniel 3 / Daniel 6).
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Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: Tested by persecution and the fiery furnace for refusing to bow to an idol (Daniel 3:16–18).
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Simon Peter: Tested through fear, pressure around the crucifixion, and a later threefold confirmation of his love and devotion by Jesus (Luke 22:31; John 21:15–17).
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Jesus: Tested through 40 days of temptation by Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–11).
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The Israelites: Tested repeatedly in the wilderness through hunger, thirst, and lack of provisions to see if they would keep God's commands (Deuteronomy 8:2, 16).
Rev. Monte
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Be Aware of Roadway Changes
We have been notified by the City of Delta that there will be a water main upgrade on 82nd Ave., between 116th Street. and Scott Road (120th Ave.), weather permitting, completing in January 2027. There may be temporary impacts on driveways and landscape features during this time, and so it may be advisable to use the 116th Street parking lot at certain times while the upgrades are being completed.
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Men's Breakfast
Saturday, October 31 at 8:30 am
Please RSVP to Philip Kenny at philipaskenny@hotmail.com
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St. Cuthbert Anglican Church Women Meeting
Monday, November 2 at 7:00 pm
Gail Revitt: 604-604-584-8696
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Monthly Luncheon
Monday, November 9 at 12:00 noon.
St. Cuthbert Hall.
Cost $6.00/person.
Contact Jan Wilmot - 604-584-0710.
All Are Welcome!!
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Ladies Breakfast hosted by St. Cuthbert ACW
Saturday, November 21 at 8:30 am.
Cost: $10.00 person includes breakfast & craft.
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Children's Ministries Focus
For more information, contact: obiea@stcuthbert.ca
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Working With Neurodivergent Children
There will be a training on working with neurodivergent children on the 14th of November by Val Kelly from St. Alban's Burnaby Day Care which deals with neurodivergent children. Sunday School Volunteers and all interested please, diarize to attend.
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Christmas Pageant 2026 – Get Involved!
Preparations for our 2026 Christmas Pageant, “Joy to the World,” are officially getting underway!
The pageant will take place during our 10:00 a.m. service on Sunday, December 13, 2026, and rehearsals will begin on Sunday, October 11 during the Sunday School, continuing through Saturday, December 12.
This year, we would also love to have parishioners and volunteers involved behind the scenes. If you are willing and able to help, we are particularly looking for support with:
- Narration
- Costume coordination
- Pageant coordination
- Props and logistics
- General support throughout the preparation and rehearsals
If you have a gift for organizing, storytelling, working with children, costumes, or simply have a heart to serve, we would love to have you be part of bringing this celebration to life!
If you are interested in volunteering, please reach out to the Children’s Ministry Team as soon as possible.
We look forward to preparing together for a joyful celebration of the birth of Christ!
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Sunday School and Nursery
At St. Cuthbert Anglican Church, we are passionate about nurturing children and youth in faith and creating a welcoming environment where families can grow spiritually together.
- Sunday School registration remains open! Families who have not yet registered are warmly encouraged to complete a registration form and join us. We would be delighted to welcome your children into our Sunday School community.
- A functioning nursery is available during services, providing parents with a safe, caring, and supportive space for younger children while families participate in worship.
Our desire is to continue building a strong, vibrant, and Christ-centred children’s ministry where every child feels welcomed, supported, encouraged, and connected to the life of the Church.
As we settle into the 26/27 Church School year, we are seeking a few additional Alternative Sunday School Teachers to step in occasionally when regular teachers are unavailable, helping to support our team and prevent burnout. No teaching experience is necessary - just a heart for children and a willingness to serve.
Thank you to all our parents, guardians, teachers, volunteers, and parish members for partnering with us in this ministry. We look forward to welcoming more families as we continue this year together.
Sunday School registration remains open, and we would be happy to have you join us! More information about Sunday School registration forms, volunteer opportunities, and the year ahead will be shared in church.
If you are interested in supporting our teachers and helping our children grow in faith, please contact the Director of Children's Formation. Thank you for helping us build a strong, supportive, and faith-filled Children's Ministry community!
Obie,
Director Children Formation
| | Youth Group Clothing Drive in Conjunction with ACW | | |
Saturday, the 24th St. Cuthbert's youth visited the ACW place to learn about how the organization came to be and the many ways they support people locally and beyond BC.
We thank Kelly Bowman for helping to organize the event and we hope to collaborate again in the new year!
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Light The Night
We're excited to announce that St. Cuthbert will be hosting the upcoming DYM (Diocese Youth Movement) event on Saturday, November 21st from 4:00-8:00pm.
Register by following this link
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Find our photos and news on our Instagram: @stcuthbertyouth
For more information reach out: Youthleader@stcuthbert.ca
— Rainoa Lonogan
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Thursday Communion Service
October 29 at 10:00 am
Bishop James Hannington
Readings: 1 Peter 3:14-18, 22 Psalm 124; Matthew 10:16-22
Please plan to park in the 116th Street Parking Lot as the Roadworks have already started, creating expected inconvenience delays.
| | Committees & Ministries Focus | |
October
Stewardship Pledge Drive
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Thanks to the early birds who returned their pledge forms, we are
45.07%
towards our 2027 Goal.
Pledge Sunday, took place on the 25th of October, and we are still accepting the 2027 pledges. Please bring them in and mark them to the attention of "The Envelope Secretary." If you did not receive a Pledge Letter, which contains the Pledge Form, there are extra letters in the Letter Cubicles in the Narthex. Alternatively, e-mail info@stcuthbert with your new address.
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Stewardship Talk By Robert Amissah Given on 18 October
Good morning,
My name is Robert Amissah. My wife Abby and we have been members of St. Cuthbert for more than 40 years, and throughout those years, we have had the privilege of serving our church in various capacities.
It is an honour to stand before you today and speak about something that has been an important part of my Christian journey: stewardship as a way of life.
Stewardship is the careful, responsible, and faithful management of what has been entrusted to our care. It involves looking after something that belongs to another person and accepting the responsibility that comes with that trust.
As Christians, we believe that everything we have comes from God. We are the stewards of His creation, and we have a responsibility to care for what He has placed in our hands. One day, we will be called to give an account of how we have used these blessings.
Throughout this season, our church has been reflecting on God’s creation and our responsibility to care for it. This is the heart of biblical stewardship: recognizing that everything belongs to God and that we are called to care for His gifts faithfully.
What Does the Bible Teach Us About Stewardship?
Psalm 24:1 reminds us:
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”
This scripture reminds us that we are not the ultimate owners of what we possess. We are entrusted with God’s gifts and are called to use them wisely, generously, and faithfully.
In 1 Peter 4:10, we are also reminded:
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
These words speak directly to each one of us. God has blessed us with different gifts, abilities, experiences, and resources.
Stewardship is therefore about more than money. It includes our time, our talents, our spiritual gifts, our willingness to help, and our commitment to the life of our parish.
Here at St. Cuthbert, we are regularly encouraged to reflect on the ways we are using our time, talent, and treasure to support God’s work.
Firstly, we give of our time.
Our parish depends on people who are willing to show up, lend a hand, participate in church activities, and support the needs of our community.
Secondly, we give of our talents.
God has given each of us abilities that can strengthen our church. Some may be gifted in teaching, organizing, singing, welcoming others, caring for those in need, or offering practical assistance. No gift is too small when it is offered with love.
Thirdly, we give of our treasure.
Our financial contributions help support the work and mission of our parish. Through our regular offerings, we help ensure that our church can continue to serve its members and reach out to the wider community. Charitable donations to eligible organizations may also qualify for tax credits.
I encourage everyone to give prayerfully and according to their means. Stewardship is about gratitude, faithfulness, and a sincere desire to support God’s work.
I have come to appreciate how much a parish depends on the faithful service of its members.
I invite you to join me in this commitment to stewardship. If you have been waiting for the right time to become more involved, perhaps that time is now. Speak with the parish leadership, offer your skills, volunteer your time, or ask where help is needed.
As I conclude, I want to remind you that stewardship is not simply a programme or a seasonal activity. It is a way of life. It is an expression of our gratitude to God and our willingness to serve others with the gifts He has given us.
Let us continue to be faithful stewards of our time, our talents, and our treasure. Let us encourage one another, support our parish, and serve with humble and joyful hearts.
May God bless us all, and may He bless our stewardship with cheerful and willing hearts.
Thank you, and God bless you.
Robert Amissah
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...........Bereavement & Resilience Group meets twice a month, on the second and fourth Tuesdays. This ministry is still downloading. We have not yet set the start date. We will let you know as soon as we have set the date. | |
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Our Mission Statement
“To seek and encourage growth as a Christ–Centred community, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to know God and to make God known
in word and deed.”
| | Community ~ Connection ~ Communication ~ Continuity ~ Compassion | | | | |
