The term "afflictest" is an archaic form of the verb "afflict," which means to cause pain or suffering. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to the trials, tribulations, and sufferings that individuals or groups endure, sometimes as a form of divine discipline or testing. The concept of affliction is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, serving as a means through which God refines, corrects, and strengthens His people.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, affliction is frequently depicted as a tool used by God to bring His people back to righteousness. For instance, in Deuteronomy 8:2-3, the Israelites' 40 years in the wilderness are described as a period of testing and humbling: "Remember that the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commandments."

The Psalms often reflect on personal and communal affliction, portraying it as a means of spiritual growth and reliance on God. Psalm 119:67 states, "Before I was afflicted, I went astray; but now I keep Your word." Here, affliction serves as a corrective measure, leading the psalmist back to obedience.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, affliction continues to be a significant theme, particularly in the context of persecution and suffering for the sake of Christ. The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of his own afflictions as part of his apostolic ministry. In 2 Corinthians 4:17, he writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." This perspective highlights the temporary nature of earthly suffering in contrast to the eternal rewards it produces.

The Book of James also addresses the role of affliction in the life of a believer. James 1:2-4 encourages Christians to "consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

Theological Implications

From a theological standpoint, affliction is understood as part of God's sovereign plan. It is not merely punitive but serves a redemptive purpose. Hebrews 12:6-7 explains, "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives. Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?"

Affliction is also seen as a means of participating in the sufferings of Christ, as noted in Philippians 3:10: "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to Him in His death." This participation is not only a form of identification with Christ but also a way to grow in spiritual maturity and reliance on God's grace.

Practical Application

For believers, understanding the role of affliction can provide comfort and perspective during difficult times. It encourages a response of faith and trust in God's purposes, even when they are not immediately apparent. Romans 8:28 assures believers that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose."

In summary, the concept of "afflictest" in the Bible encompasses the multifaceted role of suffering and trials in the life of God's people, serving as a means of discipline, growth, and deeper fellowship with Christ.

Written November 6, 1727
... O merciful Father, who never afflictest Thy children but for their own good, and
with justice, over which Thy mercy always prevaileth, either to turn them to ...
/.../swift/three sermons three prayers/iii written november 6 1727.htm

How a Desolate Man Ought to Commit Himself into the Hands of God
... By this also I have learned to dread Thine unsearchable judgment, who afflictest
the just with the wicked, but not without equity and justice. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/kempis/imitation of christ/chapter l how a desolate.htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm

Afflictest (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Afflictest (2 Occurrences). ... And Thou dost plant
them. Thou afflictest peoples, and sendest them away. (YLT). ...
/a/afflictest.htm - 7k

Afflicteth (3 Occurrences)

/a/afflicteth.htm - 7k

Sendest (15 Occurrences)
... Psalms 44:2 Thou, 'with' Thy hand, nations hast dispossessed. And Thou dost plant
them. Thou afflictest peoples, and sendest them away. (YLT). ...
/s/sendest.htm - 11k

Dispossessed (42 Occurrences)
... (DBY YLT NAS). Psalms 44:2 Thou, 'with' Thy hand, nations hast dispossessed. And
Thou dost plant them. Thou afflictest peoples, and sendest them away. (YLT). ...
/d/dispossessed.htm - 19k

Afflicted (171 Occurrences)

/a/afflicted.htm - 34k

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