Why we suffer as Christians, part 3

Why we suffer as Christians, part 3.

ROM 8:16-17

Why we suffer as Christians

For our own sake, for the sake of God’s people, for the world’s sake, and for Christ’s sake.

First, we suffer for our own sake:

a. That we may learn who God is, PSA 46:1, the book of Job

PSA 46:1
God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.

b. Suffering for learning/training, HEB 12:4-11.

HEB 12:11

Discipline is the proof of our Father’s love for us and of the validity of our sonship.

c. Suffering so that we would no longer trust in ourselves, but only in God (2CO 1:3-11)

2CO 1:3-11

d. Suffering for character development (ROM 5:1-5)

ROM 5:1-5

e. suffering that our faith may be tested and refined (JAM 1:2-4, 1PE 1:7)

JAM 1:2-4
1PE 1:6-7

f. Suffering to qualify us for the kingdom of God (2TH 1:4-5)

2TH 1:4-5

g. Suffering in weakness that the power of Christ might dwell in us,
2CO 12:9-10

2CO 12:9-10

h. Suffering in pruning, so we might bear more fruit,
JOH 15:2

JOH 15:1-2

i. suffering to produce joy and generosity in us, 2CO 8:2

2CO 8:1-2

j. Suffering so that we might be matured and strengthened and established, 1PE 5:9-11

1PE 5:9-11

Second, we suffer for the sake of others, especially God’s people:

a. Suffering that others may obtain salvation, 2TI 2:8-10

2TI 2:8-10

b. Suffering to give others courage,
PHI 1:12-14

c. Suffering so that others may be comforted,
2CO 1:3-7

2CO 1:3-7

d. Suffering in compassion for, and solidarity, with others, 1CO 12:26

1CO 12:26

e. Suffering in the form of giving sacrificially out of love - this includes forgiving.

JOH 3:16;
JOH 15:12-13; ROM 5:8; 2CO 5:14-15; EPH 5:1-2; EPH 5:25-26; 1JO 3:16

1 John 3:16

f. Suffering that, because of death working in us, life may work in others,
2CO 4:7-12