Suffering through Christ
When we closely look at these Scriptures dealing
with suffering we can see in 2 Timothy, that
suffering can be experienced simply because of
our differing beliefs. Consider this: for
others to disagree with our beliefs, they have
to hear it before they can consider it, to
oppose it. So that in itself is proof to me
that the children of God are not to keep their
beliefs hidden within the four walls of their
chosen corporate church. Scriptures also show
that the apostle Paul demonstrated his faith
openly. He showed how his faith was in the
anointing of Christ, how God revealed to him
many things through His Holy Spirit. We are
told to have this same mind. Today there are
many religions but not many trust and live by
the revelations of the Holy Spirit, for many
place their trust in the teaching and writing of
man. For those that trust in this anointing of
Christ, they are normally ousted by most of the
doctrines of today, experiencing rejection
possibly similar to what the early apostles
experienced without the physical treats, giving
thanks to our eroding laws that were once
biblically based.
2
Timothy 3:12.
Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ
Jesus will suffer persecution. per·se·cu·tion
(pûr”s¹-ky›“sh…n)
n.
1.
The act or practice of persecuting on the basis
of race, religion, sexual orientation, or
beliefs that differ from those of the
persecutor.
Romans 8:16.
The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit
that we are children of God, 17. and
if children, then heirs heirs of God
and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed
we suffer with Him, that we may also be
glorified together.
Philippians 1:29.
For to you it has been granted on behalf of
Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to
suffer for His sake, 30. having the same
conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in
me.
1 Peter 4:1.
Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the
flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind,
for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased
from sin, 2. that he no longer should live the
rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of
men, but for the will of God.
Trials that Fall
upon God’s Children
Being a child of God is not based upon one’s
acceptance amongst those that are religious but
one’s relationship with God. Satan is against
that divine relationship. Satan does not want
anyone to experience a true love for God that is
experienced within that relationship, therefore
he is going to come up with alternative focuses,
redirecting away any attention that could be
given to the divine relationship that can be
held through Christ. In this process, those in
Christ are going to go through some serious
trials and their faith is going to be tested,
many times. Sometimes we fail, and then we are
given another opportunity. Thank God that He is
faithful for forgive and always gives another
chance to those that are willing to accept it.
James 1:2.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into
various trials, 3. knowing that the testing of
your faith produces patience.
1 Peter 1:6.
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a
little while, if need be, you have been grieved
by various trials, 7. that the genuineness of
your faith, being much more precious than gold
that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may
be found to praise, honor, and glory at the
revelation of Jesus Christ,
1 Peter 4:12.
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the
fiery trial which is to try you, as though some
strange thing happened to you; 13. but rejoice
to the extent that you partake of Christ's
sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you
may also be glad with exceeding joy.
1 Peter 4:19.
Therefore let those who suffer according to the
will of God commit their souls to Him in doing
good, as to a faithful Creator.
