THEOLOGY OF SUFFERING ~ Dutch Henry

Howdy Friends! “Theology of Suffering” Suffering is all around us—in our world, in our country, in our homes, and in our hearts. Romans 5:3 says we “rejoice in our sufferings”; James calls us to “count it all joy” (James 1:2); and Jesus told us to “take heart” (John 16:33) when tribulation strikes. How can we abide (“bear patiently,” per I Peter 2:20) amid global, national, and personal suffering?

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

What is suffering today?

But how do we suffer today? How should we suffer today? Many modern Christians avoid suffering by not speaking up. Easier to “go with the flow.” And it surely is … Easier.

But is that the way of a Christian? Many, perhaps most, might say yes. But what if it isn’t?

What if it is wrong? Peter thought is was.

True Meaning

What if the true meaning of “Suffering for the Lord,” was to accept the opportunities to place oneself in harms way – To speak up against the same wrongs as in Peter’s day.

If Christians today speak up for traditional, one man one woman, marriage, speak up against abortion, speak up against removing God from public life, they will surely suffer. In many ways from financial to personal, they would know true suffering for the Lord.

And as Peter told them, “And the glories of God will follow.”