Christians suffer for a variety of reasons according to the Bible. Here is an overview of some of the key reasons:
Suffering because of sin
A major reason that Christians suffer is because of the consequences of sin in general. When Adam and Eve sinned, it allowed sin and death to enter the world (Genesis 3:16-19; Romans 5:12). All humanity is now in a fallen state, separated from God, and subject to suffering and death. Christians are not exempt from this. Sin has corrupted all of creation (Romans 8:18-25). So suffering can come just from living in a fallen world.
Specific sins can also lead to specific suffering. When a Christian sins and goes against God’s standards, there can be natural consequences that lead to suffering, such as broken relationships, loss of job, poor health from addictions, etc. (Galatians 6:7-8; James 1:14-15). Disobedience to God can also lead to His discipline which may involve suffering to lead people back to repentance (Hebrews 12:4-11). Unrepentant sin can even lead to sickness and death as judgment from God for continuing in sin (1 Corinthians 11:27-32).
Suffering from persecution
Christians also suffer persecution from non-believers because of their faith. Jesus promised that his followers would be hated and persecuted for following Him (Matthew 10:22; John 15:18-21). The apostles rejoiced that they were able to suffer for Christ (Acts 5:41). History shows that countless Christians have been martyred for their faith. Persecution continues today in many parts of the world. All devoted Christians should expect persecution from a world that rejects Christ (2 Timothy 3:12). This suffering purifies our faith and draws us close to Christ.
Suffering to refine character
Not all suffering comes as a consequence of sin. Sometimes God allows suffering to produce character growth. Difficulties train us to rely fully on God rather than ourselves (2 Corinthians 1:8-9). Enduring troubles with faith can refine our faith like fire and make us spiritually mature (James 1:2-4; 1 Peter 1:6-7). God sometimes disciplines His children by allowing difficulties that lead them back to repentance and growth (Hebrews 12:7-11). So pain can sharpen us rather than defeat us.
Suffering to identify with Christ
Part of being a Christian is being willing to share in Christ’s sufferings (Philippians 3:10). Just as Christ suffered humiliation, rejection and pain for our salvation, we are called to follow His example of suffering for the sake of others (1 Peter 2:19-23). Our temporary afflictions allow us to identify with the infinite affliction Christ endured for us (Colossians 1:24). Suffering for doing good reflects Christ’s selfless character in us (1 Peter 4:12-16).
Suffering to depend on God
Human weakness in suffering forces us to rely fully on God’s strength (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). Hardships make us focus less on worldly things and more on drawing close to God (Psalm 50:15). Difficulties drive us to pray more earnestly and seek God’s mercy. Suffering makes us long for the hope of heaven, where there will be no more pain or tears (Revelation 21:4). So suffering works to instill in us an attitude of humility and total dependence on God.
Suffering to bring glory to God
When Christians respond to suffering with grace, joy, and trust in God, it provides a powerful testimony to unbelievers (Matthew 5:11-16). People see there is a hope and strength beyond human endurance. God is glorified when His followers demonstrate Christ-like character in the midst of trials (1 Peter 4:12-16). Ultimately, our salvation was purchased through the suffering of Christ. So God can use suffering for good purposes and His glory.
Suffering to fulfill God’s purposes
Behind all suffering, God has purposes that we may not fully understand. He allows trials to purify our faith, produce steadfastness, make us witnesses to the world, drive us to Himself, and bring glory to Himself. Sometimes God even calls believers to suffer as part of fulfilling His will, such as enduring persecution or laying down our lives to serve others. While suffering is always painful, we can find comfort in God’s promise that He is working even through our hardships to fulfill His sovereign purposes.
Finding meaning in suffering
How should Christians respond to suffering? We should avoid blaming God but trust His wisdom and sovereignty over all things. We can praise Him as good and faithful even in trials. We should pray earnestly for relief and deliverance. We can find comfort knowing that God uses suffering for His glory and our growth in Christ-likeness. Our suffering is only temporary, but its impact for eternity can be huge if we endure with faith.
The hope and reward for those who suffer
While Christians suffer in this present age, they have the hope of eternal life without suffering for those who remain faithful (Revelation 21:4). Jesus encourages those who face persecution that their reward in heaven will be great (Matthew 5:11-12). Paul says that our present sufferings are not even worth comparing to the glory that will be revealed in us (Romans 8:18). The trials of this life are short and light compared to the eternal weight of glory prepared for those who suffer for Christ.
Key points on why Christians suffer:
– Because of living in a fallen, sinful world with suffering and death
– As a consequence and punishment for our own sins
– To be persecuted and hated for faith in Christ
– To refine our faith and grow in Christ-likeness
– To identify with Christ’s sufferings for us
– To learn total dependence on God
– To bring glory to God as we endure with grace
– To fulfill God’s sovereign purposes in our lives
– Our temporary sufferings lead to eternal reward and glory
While difficult, Christian suffering is purposeful and meaningful when we trust God and respond with faith. The eternal hope we have in Christ makes our present afflictions bearable as we look forward to the glory of heaven.