Christian Suffering #2

So far in our study of Romans chapter eight, we have come to understand something of our exalted and esucre position as the sons and daughters of God. We have been adopted and granted the genuine privileges of sonship. So much so, that we are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. What belongs to Christ is ours as well. Our future is full of ". . . THINGS WHICH EYE HAS NOT SEEN AND EAR HAS NOT HEARD, AND WHICH HAVE NOT ENTERED THE HEART OF MAN, ALL THAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM." (1 Corinthinas 2:9). The believer in Jesus Christ is eternally saved in spite of the hardship and suffering he encounters in this life. We have a glorious future to look forward to. And it is upon this glorious future that we must learn to dwell, not upon our present suffereing. This will be come clear as we return to Romans 8:18-25 to see what, Paul by the Holy Spirit, has to say about Christian suffering.

Follow with me as I read and offer some preliminary explanation. “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with (or weighed together with) the glory that is to be revealed to us. {19} For the anxious longing of the creation waits eagerly (or cranes it’s neck looking) for the revealing (the uncovering) of the sons of God. {20} For the creation was subjected to futility, (vanity and emptiness) not of its own will, but because of Him (God) who subjected it, in hope {21} that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God. (Which is to say, the whole material world will share in the coming glory and freedom that the children of God will inherit at the second coming of Christ.) {22} For we know that THE WHOLE CREATION GROANS and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. {23} And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves GROAN WITHIN OURSELVES, (We groan like a woman in labor longing for the child to be delivered so that our present misery will be replaced with object of our hope. That hope has to do with the second coming of Christ and with our own glorification. We groan in both a physical and spiritual sense looking forward to the promised relief. We groan within ourselves . . .) waiting eagerly for our (final) adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. {24} For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one also hope for what he sees? {25} But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.”

In this section of scripture Paul begins to prove the practical wroth of good theology, careful bible study, and solid preaching. In our previous study of this text we saw that in order to deal properly with our present suffering we must look beyond our present experience to a time when all suffering will be over forever. Our present suffering, says the inspired apostle, is nothing when compared to the wonder, glory, of life in heaven with the Father, Son, and God the Holy Spirit. On the negative side there will be no suffering, on the positive, the life to come will be filled with joy unspeakable and glory immeasurable.

As I have pointed out there are those who teach who teach that Christians can and ought to have perfect health and excess wealth in this life. Such teachers are either misinformed or out and out liars motivated by some evil desire. There is no promise in scripture of perfect health or excess wealth. On the contrary we are promised suffering and hardship. Our experience proves this truth but we must never, ever, base our beliefs on our experience. So, let us consider the following texts upon which we can safely rest our beliefs.

(Philippians 1:27-30 NASB) “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ; so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; (These words would eventually get to the church in the universal sense but they were written first to a local assembly, the members of which were to bind themselves together for the common cause, i.e., “the faith of the gospel.” He continues . . ) {28} in no way alarmed by your opponents-- which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God. {29} For to you (all Christians) it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, (Both our faith in Christ and our suffering because we are in Him is given to us as a gift and brings glory and honor to Him. These things are “for Christ’s sake”. Therefore, all Christians on this earth are . . .) {30} experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, (Paul) and now hear to be in me.” All Christians have been given two gifts both of which are designed to glorify Christ. We are given the gift of faith by which we trust in Christ for the salvation of our souls. And we are given the gift of suffering as believers in Him. Look with me at John 16:33 NASB.

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. (He speaks of peace with God secured by Christ for all who trust Him as Savior. These have peace within and know that there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus by faith. These folks are at peace knowing that the suffering they experience in this life somehow, some way, serves to bring glory and honor to Christ. Jesus continues . . .) In the world you have tribulation, (no ifs ands or buts) but take courage; I have overcome the world." Take courage dear Christian, the end will not be like the present. Look beyond the world and the suffering you experience here, look forward to your inheritance, the life to come, the glory and joy, and eternity of it all. Christ has overcome the world and we are in Him. Therefore we shall overcome the world by faith in Him, be courageous in Christ.

Consider with me the words of 1 Peter 4:12-19 NASB. “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal (“fiery ordeal”= the refining burning) among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; (Christians must not be surprised or taken aback by various kinds of suffering that come into their lives. SUFFERING IS THE NORMAL CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE. It is an instrument by which God refines our character, burns off the dross of pride and rebellion, and makes us a patient, pliable, people.) {13} but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation. (Paul is not saying that Christians are to rejoice because we enjoy pain or heartache. Rather, we rejoice because through and by the suffering God is working in us to will and to do of His good pleasure. We rejoice while we suffer looking forward to our inheritance, to eternity in Heaven forever. We rejoice with a view toward the revelation of His and our glory.) {14} If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. {15} By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; (Suffering that is brought on because of our own sinfulness is nothing to rejoice about and is not the suffering that Paul speaks of.) {16} but if anyone suffers as a Christian, (because of his identification with Christ) let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God. {17} For it is time for judgment (as in refinement, chastisement, and correction) to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? {18} AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY (That is, through hardship and suffering . . ) THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? (They will not only go through the sufferings of this life but in eternity their suffering will intensify and continue forever.) {19} Therefore, let those also who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.”

All suffering, in one way or another, is by the will and decree of God. If you do not believe and rest in that truth you will never have peace, or joy in the midst of hardship. We must “entrust our souls, our physical, and spiritual selves, to our faithful Creator with the knowledge that He always does what is right and good for us. He never seeks our harm but only our good and His glory.

(1 Peter 5:1-11 NASB) “Therefore, (meaning, in light of what I have just said about suffering) I exhort the elders (that is, pastors, bishops, leaders of the church) among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, {2} shepherd the flock of God among you, (Paul has witnessed the sufferings of the people of God and of their leaders, to whom he now speaks directly. He has also experienced that suffering himself. Notice how he comforts himself in the midst of his suffering. He remembers that he is, “a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed.” He looks away from his present suffering to his glorious future with Christ. He counsels the pastors to whom he writes, saying in essence don’t let suffering of any kind deter you from your task and calling of shepherding the flock and. . ) exercising oversight (keeping an eye on, remaining watchful for, looking carefully after the flock entrusted to you) not under compulsion, (not just because it is your duty) but voluntarily, (out of love) according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, (not because you are being paid to do a job) but with eagerness; {3} nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, (don’t shepherd or rule over the people of God with strict domination) but proving to be examples to the flock. (Lead them not only by word and instruction but by example. Show them with your life how to follow Christ.) {4} And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. {5} You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; (obey and be submissive to them) and all of you, (the entire congregation) clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE. {6} Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, {7} casting all your anxiety upon Him, BECAUSE HE CARES FOR YOU”.

God does everything and He does everything our of love for His children. Therefore, we can and must cast ourselves unreservedly into His loving care. We must humble ourselves, “Under the mighty hand of God”. Meaning we are to bow in submission to the day-to-day providence of God, i.e., both the joys and the sufferings of the day. We must pray, “Thy will not mine be done”, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven”. God gives grace to such people but is opposed to the proud and rebellious.

The author continues in verse eight. “Be of sober spirit, (have a sound mind, think clearly about these things) be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. {9} But resist him, FIRM IN YOUR FAITH, (Don’t believe the devil’s lies. Rather, hold firm to the knowledge that God is ultimately in control and that all suffering is a divine means to a glorious end, our glorification with Christ.) knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. (In other words, we do not suffer alone. Every Christian suffers in the same way that you do, 1 Corinthians 10:13) {10} And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. (This is what we have to look forward to in the next life.) {11} To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.” Once again we find the Holy Spirit directing our thoughts and attentions away from our present suffering to the coming pleasures of eternity. What a day that will be. For, when we see Jesus we will be like Him, sharing in His eternal glory.

Now lets return to our text in Romans chapter eight verse eighteen where Paul is working to convince the children of God that suffering is temporary and does not effect or threaten their salvation. Nothing can remove them/us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. There will come a day, says the apostle, when the sufferings of this life will be totally eclipsed by the glory of the hereafter.

(Romans 8:18-25 NASB) “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with (or weighed together with) the glory (glory, joy, bliss, pleasure) that is to be revealed to us. (This revelation will come, in part, at our deaths and fully at the second coming of Christ. Then the suffering of this life that so often overwhelms us will mean nothing at all. The glory of heaven will overpower all memory of this life like an airport spotlight overpowers a pen light. Paul continues . . .) {19} For the anxious longing of the creation waits eagerly for the revealing (the uncovering and glorification) of the sons of God. (Why?) {20} For (or because) the creation (everything God made) was subjected to futility, (All creation is under a curse because of our sin.) not of its own will, but because of Him (God) who subjected it, in hope {21} that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God.”

The whole material world has been made subject to the curse by God. Likewise, the whole world will share in the coming glory and restored freedom of the children of God. When we have at last been set free from the curse of sin and death God’s creation, as a whole, will be set free also. But in the mean time the curse is in force for man, beast, plant, and matter.) {22} For we know that THE WHOLE CREATION GROANS and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. {23} And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves GROAN WITHIN OURSELVES,

Does creation actually groan under the effects of the curse? Is she in labor like a woman giving birth to a child? Yes indeed! How could one live on the earth and not see it? The destructive storms, earthquakes, floods, droughts, extreme winters, falling stars, exploding stars, and planets. Beasts killing one another, species dying out, locusts destroying crops, plant, animal, and human disease. Could we go on and on? The whole creation groans under the burden of the curse of God which lays heavily upon it because of man’s sin. Along with creation WE groan like a woman in labor longing for the child within to be delivered. We suffer and groan while filled with the hope of our promised and glorious inheritance which is about to be revealed. Once again we are pointed to the future. Is this not how we encourage a woman in labor. She cries out, “I can’t go on, my suffering is to great!” Those with her offer words of encouragement saying, “You can and you must endure this present suffering if you expect to hold in your arms the child you have hoped for. So she endures for the hope and promise set before her. And in just a moment, relatively speaking, she has forgotten her pain. For in her arms she holds what she has hoped and suffered for, the child. So we Christians must endure our present suffering. We must not see it as the end but as a difficult and necessary means to a blessed and wonderful end. The sufferings of this life are stepping stones that lead to glory! Then our present groaning and pain will be forgotten. The suffering of this life cannot compare to the glorious future that lies before us.

There is a spiritual groaning that all Christians experience, that is described in Romans chapter seven. But there is physical suffering to endure as well. That is why we are . . . verse twenty-three “b”) “waiting eagerly for our (final) adoption as sons, the redemption of our BODY”. What a day that will be when this body is changed and freed from the curse so that it never has an ache or pain again for all eternity! As the Children of God we all wait eagerly for the final adoption of our bodies. This is part of our hope.

{24} “For in hope we have been saved,” When we are saved it is certain that we will be finally with the Lord, recipients of all the promises and glory that are ours in Christ. However, we do not realize all the benefits of our great salvation at once. We are saved, then we begin to look forward to or hold out hope for the coming blessings of heaven. The text continues, but hope that is seen is not hope; That is, hope has nothing to do with what you have but what you do not have and cannot see. The apostle continues, “for why does one also hope for what he sees? {25} But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.”

The Christian is one who has a present, and real salvation. He is, right now, saved by God from the wrath to come. There is not now nor can there ever be divine condemnation brought against him or her. Yet the believer’s salvation is not complete. He has something wonderful to look forward to. The complete and final renovation of his spirit, mind, and body. Every infirmity and weakness in his entire being will be replaced with perfection, absolute, Christ-like, perfection! This hope is the Christian’s strength, stability, and motivation, to endure through times of suffering, trial, persecution, and testing. This hope of glory causes and enables him to bow in humble submission to whatever God sees fit to bring into his life. It is a glorious hope of a wonder filled inheritance which causes us to crane our necks looking eagerly toward the horizon hoping to catch a glimpse of our Lord and Savior when He comes to take us home.

It ought to be clear to each of us that we have a choice to make when we encounter the fiery trials, tests, or corrections of our loving Father in heaven. We can kick, and scream, and rebel, against His designs for us as though He were making a terrible mistake. Or, we can bow in humble submission under the mighty hand of God remembering that He gives grace to the humble but is opposed, sets His face against, the proud. No Christian wants his Father’s opposition and discipline. Therefore, let us pray for grace to submit to God.

The spirit of submission which we are called to and which is fostered by sound teaching such as we have heard today is captured in a hymn which I love to sing and read. It’s title is “Thanks to God”. It’s found on page one hundred ten of your hymnals.

Thanks, O God, for boundless mercy, From Thy gracious throne above;

Thanks for every need provided From the fullness of Thy love.

Thanks for daily toil and labor, And for rest when shadows fall;

Thanks for love of friend and neighbor, And Thy goodness unto all

So far so good, but consider the next verse,

Thanks for thorns as well as roses, Thanks for weakness and for health;

Thanks for clouds as well as sunshine, Thanks for poverty and wealth.

Thanks for pain as well as pleasure – All Thou sendest day by day;

And Thy word, our dearest treasure, Shedding light upon our way.

God’s word sheds light on the mystery of Christian suffering. By reading the word of God we discover that our present suffering is buy design and that it is only temporary.

Thanks, O God, for home and fireside, Where we share our daily bread;

Thanks for hours of sweet communion, When by Thee our souls are fed.

Thanks for grace in time of sorrow And for joy and peace in Thee;

Thanks for hope today, tomorrow, and for all eternity!

Only a person who understood the Sovereignty of God and His love for His Children could have written these words. Only one who knew the truth of Romans eight-twenty eight. That God is the present Manager and Governor of our lives working out the minutest details for His own glory and the good of His dear ones. The author of this hymn knew that nothing could or would come into his life except that which came from His all wise and loving Father. So, whether hard or easy he is thankful. He was not a man who did not feel pain, shed tears, get depressed, or cry out for mercy and deliverance. He was flesh and blood like you and I but he knew his God, he knew the Bible. Each day, by grace, he bowed his naturally proud heart under the mighty hand of God and received grace in time of need.

May God help us to mimic this man’s faith. At all times and in all circumstances we must be a grateful people. For even in times of suffering God is working in us to will and to do of His good pleasure. He is molding, shaping, purging, changing, empting, and filling us with new and wonderful grace. We must go through this life thinking clearly. We must remember that the hard things are designed to do us good and not harm. In this we must rejoice and to the future we must look, craning our necks toward the horizon in hope of the second coming of Christ.

(1 Peter 4:12-19 NASB) Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; {13} but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation. . . {19} Therefore, let those also who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

(1 Peter 5:5-11 NASB) {5} “You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE. {6} Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, {7} casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you. . . . {10} And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. {11} To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.


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