Many Christians view this present world as a trial that is part of sanctification. Trials produce a stronger faith and greater hope in the promises given by a loving God. The problems lay with discipleship of the modern church. People grow hopeless when they do not grow in the living God as revealed in scripture. Unfortunately we have many trends in the Church today that teaches a “Name it and Claim it” theology. I think this theology leads Christians away from what the Word of God teaches. We hear ideas in some churches that put Jesus as our servant and our time frame must take precedence. When trials come to someone not prepared with biblical training in the Word of God, they will experience a separation from God and even at times hostility toward Him.
Christians prepared for these trials are equipped to stand in that day and be refined as God desires. These people can look at difficult periods as only a professional development program for eternity. 1 Peter 4:13 states “But rejoice that you take part in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.” In addition, 2 Thessalonians 1:5 adds, “All this is evidence that God's judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.”
2 comments:
Scripture also tells us that if we suffer with Him, that we shall also reign with Him 2 Tim 2:12. It is food for thought. What happens if we don't suffer for Him?
I think if we love Him, we will suffer with Him. The Apostles certainly suffered followed by generations of suffering. We may not suffer the same but since we are living in a cursed world we too will continue to sin. If the sin or sins do not have after effects of some form of suffering then we should have something to worry about.
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