by 
The Curious Bag
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The phrase "trial by fire" is a biblical image that has become one of the cultural expressions of the English language. It is used in a wide variety of circumstances including sports, law and professional settings. Humans have seen the purifying effects and potentially devastating results of those who do not pass the fiery test.
History
In Medieval times people accused of crimes were tried by fire or water. They were asked to depend on divine intervention in protecting them against the fire or water if innocent. They were made to walk over coals or carry hot irons and not get burned. Festering wounds were considered evidence of guilt.
Old Testament
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, three young Jewish men, were sent to the fiery furnace by King Nebuchadnezzar II during the first deportation of the Israelites. According to the biblical narrative in Daniel, the three were miraculously protected by the "Angel of the Lord" in the furnace. They survived their "fiery trial."
Judgement of Christ
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul presents the Judgment seat of Christ as a place of fiery trial. The works and deeds done by the believer are judged by fire. Some are revealed to be gold, silver and precious stones. Others are discovered as wood, hay and stubble, and are consumed by the flames. (2 Corinthians 5:10)
Test of Skill
In modern vernacular, the term trial by fire is often applied to the revelation of true skill by a novice under pressure. When a rookie quarterback faces a fiercely intense defensive opponent in one of his first games, he undergoes a "trial by fire." This sometimes is also referred to as a baptism by fire.
Test of Character
When a young person is put under pressure by facing face adult temptations he receives the same trial by fire. The individual must face the pressure to stay true to her core values or to fold under pressure. This is a trial or test of character "by fire."
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