Unpopular Subject
Christian suffering is one of the major themes of the Bible. Of course, no one wants to hear about it. But, if we want balanced instruction, as well as knowledge of the truth, something must be said about it. Even before the time of Christ, believers in God were being persecuted. Examples: Daniel was thrown into, but delivered from, the lion’s den. (Daniel chapter 6). Three Jewish boys were thrown into a raging burning furnace, only to be delivered without a hint of smoke. (Daniel chapter 3). Among many others, are Esther and her fellow Jews being delivered from a plot to kill them. (The Book of Esther).
At and shortly after the time of Christ, Christians also suffered. Apostle Paul alone suffered much, such as imprisonment, shipwreck, and attacks from those opposing the Good News of salvation through Jesus the Christ. He wrote how he was delivered from death, but was willing to die, if need be. (The Book of Acts, Paul’s epistles). The New Testament is full of examples too numerous to elaborate on. There were numerous cases when Christians somehow escaped further suffering. Sometimes this was through miraculous acts of God. (Examples are throughout the Bible).
You need to know, however, that often God chose, and still chooses, to allow suffering and death (for reasons He sometimes reveals but sometimes doesn’t). You need to know that suffering can be a very real part of being a Christian. Don’t be caught unaware of this fact. It might cause disillusionment. So, don’t panic! Sometimes having to endure suffering is not a sign that you are doing something wrong. Sometimes it is a sign you are actually doing something right! If you aren’t doing much for Christ, you’re not much of a threat to Satan. But Satan hates those who submit to God’s plans for their lives and are active for Christ. So, expect to suffer. (1 Peter chapter 4, much of Bible).
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 you no longer should live the rest of your time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. 3 For we have spent enough of our past time doing the desire of the Gentiles, and having walked in lewdness, lusts, drunken binges, orgies, carousings, and abominable idolatries. 4 They think it is strange that you don’t run with them into the same excess of riot, blaspheming. 5 They will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For to this end the Good News was preached even to the dead, that they might be judged indeed as men in the flesh, but live as to God in the spirit.
7 But the end of all things is near. Therefore be of sound mind, self-controlled, and sober in prayer. 8 And above all things be earnest in your love among yourselves, for love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, employ it in serving one another, as good managers of the grace of God in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, let it be as it were the very words of God. If anyone serves, let it be as of the strength which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
12 Beloved, don’t be astonished at the fiery trial which has come upon you to test you, as though a strange thing happened to you. 13 But because you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings, rejoice, that at the revelation of his glory you also may rejoice with exceeding joy. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed; because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. On their part he is blasphemed, but on your part he is glorified. 15 For let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil doer, or a meddler in other men’s matters. 16 But if one of you suffers for being a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this matter. 17 For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. If it begins first with us, what will happen to those who don’t obey the Good News of God? 18 “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will happen to the ungodly and the sinner?” 19 Therefore let them also who suffer according to the will of God in doing good entrust their souls to him, as to a faithful Creator. 1 Peter 4
12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. 2 Timothy 3:12
This has been just a sampling of the suffering that Christians before us have had to endure. The Bible is full of so much more. Suffering is truly a theme. History is full of so much more Jewish and Christian suffering as well. Read the Bible and check history.
Also unpopular is the extensive persecution against Christians that is going on right now. The news rarely carries it. But organizations such as The Voice of the Martyrs and Barnabas Aid are actively trying to make folks aware of it and provide aid to the very many suffering Christians worldwide. There is also prejudice and misrepresentation against Christians that is privately (and publicly) going on right here in America. American Center for Law and Justice is just one source for what is going on right under our noses. Perhaps you’d be willing to request these publications, pray, and help. And,
May God Bless You!