Introduction: Life is War
1. The Universality of Suffering: No one is exempt
1.1 Job’s Testimony
He cried: “Man who is born of a woman is few of days and full of trouble.” (Job 14:1, ESV)
1.2 Paul’s Witness
He wrote: “For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.” (Romans 8:22, ESV)
1.3 Baxter’s Reminder
He said: “Suffering is the common lot of God’s children, and the way to heaven is through many tribulations.”
2. The Purposes of God in Suffering
2.1 To Test and Refine our Faith
The Psalmist prays: “For You, O God, have tested us; You have tried us as silver is tried.” (Psalm 66:10, ESV)
And Peter adds: “…so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold… may be found to result in praise.” (1 Peter 1:7, ESV)
2.2 To Conform us to Christ
Paul says: “For those whom He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” (Romans 8:29, ESV)
2.3 To Display God’s Power and Grace
Paul testifies about his thorn in the flesh: “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’” (2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV)
3. The Kinds of Christian Suffering
3.1 Persecution for Faith
Jesus says: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10, ESV)
3.2 Suffering from a Fallen World
“For the creation was subjected to futility…” (Romans 8:20, ESV)
3.3 Inner Pain of the Soul
David laments: “Why are you cast down, O my soul?” (Psalm 42:5, ESV)
3.4 The Discipline of the Lord
“For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and chastises every son whom He receives.” (Hebrews 12:6, ESV)
4. The Example and Sympathy of Christ
4.1 Christ’s Suffering: “He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” (Isaiah 53:3, ESV)
4.2 Christ’s Sympathy:
“We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize…” (Hebrews 4:15, ESV)
5. The Hope That Strengthens the Weary
5.1 Paul’s Assurance:
“This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory.” (2 Corinthians 4:17, ESV)
“The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing…” (Romans 8:18, ESV)
6. How to Endure Christian Suffering
6.1 Submit to God’s Sovereignty – Romans 8:28.
• Application: Trust that nothing is wasted in His providence.
6.2 Look to Christ – Hebrews 12:2.
6.3 Pray in Faith – 1 Peter 5:7.
6.4 Cling to the Promises – Psalm 119:50.
6.5 Bear One Another’s Burdens – Galatians 6:2.
Conclusion:
A Call to Watch and Fight
Peter assures us: “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” (1 Peter 5:10, ESV)