How should Matthew 17:23 influence our response to suffering and persecution? Setting the Scene “ ‘They will kill Him, and on the third day He will be raised to life.’ ” (Matthew 17:23) Key Observations • Jesus acknowledges coming suffering: “They will kill Him.” • He affirms a victorious outcome: “on the third day He will be raised.” • The disciples’ grief is real, yet the promise of resurrection stands unchanged. What This Teaches About Suffering and Persecution • Expectation: If the sinless Son of Man faced violent opposition, we should not be surprised when we meet hardship for His sake (John 15:20). • Purpose: Suffering is never meaningless; it is woven into God’s redemptive plan just as the cross preceded the empty tomb (Romans 8:28). • Hope: Future resurrection reframes present pain. Jesus’ words root our hope in a timetable that ends in life, not loss (2 Corinthians 4:14). • Assurance: The certainty of Christ’s triumph guarantees that no opposition can ultimately defeat those united to Him (Romans 8:31-39). Practical Responses • Steady your heart with resurrection truth. Review Matthew 17:23 when pressure mounts; say aloud, “Death, then life.” • Interpret hostility through the gospel lens. Persecution points to our union with Christ, not His absence (Philippians 1:29). • Choose courage over despair. Jesus walked knowingly into suffering; empowered by His Spirit, so can we (2 Timothy 1:7-8). • Live resurrection-focused service. Invest in acts of mercy and witness that testify to the life to come (1 Corinthians 15:58). Supporting Passages • Luke 24:46-47 — “Thus it is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day...” • 1 Peter 4:12-13 — “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial among you... rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ.” • Hebrews 12:2-3 — “For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross... Consider Him... so that you will not grow weary.” Living It Out Today • Anchor your identity in the risen Christ; persecution can touch circumstances but not your standing. • Speak resurrection hope into each other’s trials; encourage fellow believers with Matthew 17:23. • Keep your eyes on the “third day” promise when the “they will kill Him” moments arrive. Suffering is temporary; glory is certain. |
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