Topical Encyclopedia The theme of Christ delivering afflicted saints is a profound and recurring motif throughout the Scriptures. It underscores the compassionate and redemptive nature of Jesus Christ, who is both the Savior and Sustainer of His people. The afflicted saints, those who endure trials, tribulations, and sufferings for their faith, find solace and deliverance in Christ, who is ever-present in their times of need.Old Testament Foreshadowing The concept of God delivering His people is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. The psalmist declares, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles" (Psalm 34:17). This assurance of divine deliverance is a precursor to the ultimate deliverance found in Christ. The afflictions of the saints are not overlooked by God; rather, they are opportunities for Him to demonstrate His power and faithfulness. Christ's Earthly Ministry During His earthly ministry, Jesus exemplified His role as the Deliverer. He healed the sick, cast out demons, and raised the dead, providing physical deliverance as a sign of His authority and compassion. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites the weary and burdened, saying, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" . This invitation extends beyond physical rest to spiritual deliverance from sin and its consequences. The Passion and Resurrection The ultimate act of deliverance is found in the passion and resurrection of Christ. Through His sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus delivered humanity from the bondage of sin and death. The Apostle Paul writes, "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of His beloved Son" (Colossians 1:13). The resurrection of Christ is the assurance of victory over all afflictions, as it demonstrates His power over death itself. The Role of Faith Faith plays a crucial role in the deliverance of afflicted saints. Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Hall of Faith," recounts the accounts of those who, through faith, experienced God's deliverance. The chapter concludes with the reminder that many did not receive earthly deliverance but were commended for their faith, looking forward to a better resurrection (Hebrews 11:35-40). Present Deliverance In the present age, Christ continues to deliver His saints through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Believers are assured of His presence and comfort in times of affliction. The Apostle Peter encourages the church, "Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7). This care is a testament to Christ's ongoing work of deliverance in the lives of His followers. Eternal Deliverance The ultimate deliverance for afflicted saints is eschatological. Revelation 21:4 promises a future where "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away" . This eternal deliverance is the hope of all believers, secured by the finished work of Christ. Conclusion The deliverance of afflicted saints by Christ is a testament to His love, power, and faithfulness. Throughout Scripture, believers are encouraged to trust in Him, knowing that their afflictions are temporary and that He is both willing and able to deliver them, ultimately bringing them into eternal glory. Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 3:10Because you have kept the word of my patience, I also will keep you from the hour of temptation, which shall come on all the world, to try them that dwell on the earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Meditations for one that is Like to Die. Letter iii. --For 331. Easter-Day xvi Pharmuthi; iii Id. April ... On the Third Part of the Psalm. Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ; Prayer and Trouble (On the Mysteries. V. ) Of the Benefits of Martyrdom. And Bring us not into Temptation but Deliver us from Evil A Stanza of Deliverance Concerning Worship. Resources Why did Jesus have to die? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the passion of Christ? | GotQuestions.org Where does the Old Testament predict the coming of Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.org Afflicted: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Afflicted Saints: Christ Comforts Afflicted Saints: Christ Delivers Afflicted Saints: Christ is With Afflicted Saints: Christ Preserves Afflicted Saints: Christ Supports Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Apostles Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: David Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Eli Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Job Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Joseph Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Moses Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Nehemiah Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Paul Afflicted Saints: God Comforts Afflicted Saints: God Delivers Afflicted Saints: God is a Refuge and Strength To Afflicted Saints: God Preserves Afflicted Saints: should Acknowledge the Justice of Their Chastisements Afflicted Saints: should Avoid Sin Afflicted Saints: should be Frequent in Prayer Afflicted Saints: should be Patient Afflicted Saints: should be Resigned Afflicted Saints: should Imitate Christ Afflicted Saints: should Imitate the Prophets Afflicted Saints: should Keep the Pious Resolutions Made During Afflictions Afflicted Saints: should not Despise Chastening Afflicted Saints: should Praise God Afflicted Saints: should Take Encouragement from Former Mercies Afflicted Saints: should Trust in the Goodness of God Afflicted Saints: should Turn and Devote Themselves to God Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Bear Them in Mind Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Comfort Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Pity Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Pray for Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Protect Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Relieve Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Sympathise With Them Duty Toward The Afflicted: To Visit Them Related Terms |