Topical Bible: Afflictions: Saints are to Expect

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Afflictions are an integral part of the Christian experience, as evidenced throughout Scripture. The Bible consistently teaches that those who follow Christ should anticipate trials and tribulations as part of their spiritual journey. These afflictions serve various purposes, including the testing of faith, spiritual growth, and the glorification of God.

Biblical Basis for Expecting Afflictions

1. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus Himself warned His followers about the inevitability of suffering. In John 16:33 , He states, "I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world." This assurance from Christ highlights that while afflictions are certain, believers can find peace in Him.

2. Apostolic Writings: The apostles also emphasized the expectation of suffering. The Apostle Paul, in 2 Timothy 3:12 , writes, "Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." This passage underscores that persecution is a common experience for those who pursue a life of godliness.

3. Purpose of Afflictions: Afflictions serve to refine and strengthen the faith of believers. James 1:2-4 encourages, "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." Here, trials are depicted as a means to spiritual maturity.

4. Examples from Scripture: The lives of biblical figures such as Job, David, and the prophets illustrate the reality of afflictions. Job's account is a profound example of enduring suffering while maintaining faith. In the Psalms, David frequently laments his trials yet consistently turns to God for deliverance and strength.

5. The Role of Suffering in Sanctification: Romans 5:3-5 explains, "Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." This passage highlights the transformative power of suffering in the believer's life.

6. Encouragement in Afflictions: While afflictions are to be expected, believers are encouraged to find solace in God's promises. 1 Peter 5:10 offers hope: "And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you."

Conclusion

The expectation of afflictions is a recurring theme in the Bible, serving as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the refining process of faith. Through trials, believers are drawn closer to God, their character is developed, and their hope is anchored in the eternal promises of Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

John 16:33
These things I have spoken to you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 14:22
Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Psalm 125:2. SM The Saints' Trial and Safety; Or, Moderated ...
... 2. SM The saints' trial and safety; or, Moderated afflictions. ... God and his almighty
love Embrace his saints around ... the road to hell, We must expect our portion ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/the psalms of david/psalm 125 2 0 s m the.htm

The Saints' Rest is not to be Expected on Earth.
... he would not have dealt so by all his saints. Never expect thy flesh should truly
expound the meaning of ... we should have a truer judgment of our afflictions. ...
/.../baxter/the saints everlasting rest/chapter x the saints rest.htm

Psalm 125 the Saint's Trial and Safety; Or, Moderated Afflictions.
... SM The saint's trial and safety; or, Moderated afflictions. Firm and unmoved are
they. ... Embrace his saints around. ... We must expect our portion there,. ...
/.../watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/psalm 125 the saints trial 2.htm

The Necessity of Diligently Seeking the Saints' Rest.
... while they neglect the kingly dignity of the saints! ... mercies, our relation to God,
and the afflictions he lays ... like him; nor can any servants expect such fruit ...
/.../baxter/the saints everlasting rest/chapter vii the necessity of.htm

The Introduction to the Work, with Some Account of the Nature of ...
... or, if they expect more by the Messiah, it is ... What more welcome to men under personal
afflictions, tiring duties ... the portion and rest of his saints, make these ...
/.../baxter/the saints everlasting rest/chapter i the introduction to.htm

The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints
... O yes, kings have their sorrows"crowned heads have their afflictions. ... Do not expect
that because you are a king, you are ... The saints get but little wine here. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the kingly priesthood of the.htm

How to Discern Our Title to the Saints' Rest.
... it tells us so frequently that the saints before us ... Almost all men among us verily
expect to be saved ... How comfortably mayest thou then undergo all afflictions! ...
/.../baxter/the saints everlasting rest/chapter viii how to discern.htm

Satan Considering the Saints
... We must not expect to be rid of temptations ... To conclude, Job's afflictions and Job's
patience have been a ... how many saints have been comforted in their distress ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 11 1865/satan considering the saints.htm

Perseverance of Saints.
... But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the ... of the inspired writers,
to address the saints as the ... and exhort them, just as we might expect when we ...
/.../finney/systematic theology/lecture l perseverance of saints.htm

What a Sacrifice Is, and what are the Species of Sacrifice.
... Gospel, faith, prayer, thanksgiving, confession, the afflictions of saints yea,
all good works of saints. ... and from the heart seek and expect aid from Me ...
/.../melanchthon/the apology of the augsburg confession/part 30 what a sacrifice.htm