Why we suffer as Christians, part 7.

Why we suffer
as Christians, part 7.

Why we suffer as Christians

First, we suffer for our own sake:

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

a. Suffering that others may obtain salvation, 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

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

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

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

g. Suffering so that grace may extend to more and more people, 2Co 4:15

Third, we suffer for the sake of Christ.

Col 1:24

a. Suffering to get closer to Jesus, share in His sufferings

The lacking is on Paul’s side = the suffering with Christ that remains for him to endure in order to complete His mission.

Phi 1:29-30
Phi 3:7-11
2Ti 1:6-14

Heb 13:12-14
1Pe 4:12-16

b. Suffering that we may share Christ’s glory.

Rom 8:16-18
2Co 4:16-18
2Th 1:3-5
2Ti 1:8

We bring it to Jesus and trust what He will do with it to transform it into something good.