There exists a general lack of biblical understanding for the idea of testing that emerges in the Old Testament as a significant theological theme.The faithful from both Old Testament and New Testament times are tested for their faith.This kind of experience often involves enduring hardship and difficult times.While often confused with the biblical idea of temptation, the biblical idea of testing stems from a metallurgical background and carries a unique covenantal function.Testing will be at the center of how God responds to the rebellion of his people and reveals God s primary concern for the faith of his saints.