Topical Encyclopedia Sufferings, a central theme in the biblical narrative, encompass the physical, emotional, and spiritual hardships experienced by individuals and communities. The Bible addresses suffering in various contexts, offering insights into its purpose, the believer's response, and the hope found in God's promises.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, suffering is often depicted as a consequence of sin and disobedience. The fall of man in Genesis 3 introduces suffering into the human experience, as God pronounces curses upon Adam and Eve, resulting in pain, toil, and death (Genesis 3:16-19). The Israelites' suffering in Egypt (Exodus 1:11-14) and their subsequent wilderness wanderings (Numbers 14:33-34) illustrate the consequences of collective disobedience and the refining process of God's people. The Book of Job provides a profound exploration of personal suffering. Job, a righteous man, endures immense loss and physical affliction, prompting questions about the nature of suffering and divine justice. Job's account emphasizes that suffering is not always a direct result of personal sin and highlights the mystery of God's sovereignty (Job 1:8-12). Prophetic Literature The prophets often address the theme of suffering, both as a result of Israel's unfaithfulness and as a means of purification. Isaiah speaks of the "Suffering Servant," a prophetic figure who bears the sins and sorrows of others, ultimately pointing to the redemptive work of Christ (Isaiah 53:3-5). This passage underscores the concept of vicarious suffering and foreshadows the New Testament understanding of Christ's atoning sacrifice. New Testament Context In the New Testament, suffering is intricately linked to the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself experienced profound suffering, culminating in His crucifixion. His sufferings are seen as redemptive, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament and providing salvation for humanity (Matthew 26:38-39; 1 Peter 2:24). Believers are called to share in Christ's sufferings, understanding that such experiences are part of the Christian journey. The Apostle Paul writes extensively on this topic, encouraging believers to rejoice in sufferings, knowing that they produce perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-5). Paul also speaks of the "fellowship of His sufferings," emphasizing the transformative power of suffering in conforming believers to the image of Christ (Philippians 3:10). Purpose and Response The Bible presents suffering as a means of spiritual growth and refinement. James encourages believers to consider trials as opportunities for joy, as they test faith and develop perseverance (James 1:2-4). Peter echoes this sentiment, reminding believers that suffering for righteousness' sake is a blessing and an opportunity to glorify God (1 Peter 3:14-17). Believers are also called to support one another in times of suffering. Paul instructs the church to "bear one another's burdens," fulfilling the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). This communal aspect of suffering highlights the importance of empathy, compassion, and mutual encouragement within the body of Christ. Eternal Perspective The Bible assures believers that present sufferings are temporary and incomparable to the glory that awaits in eternity. Paul writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison" (2 Corinthians 4:17). This eternal perspective provides hope and strength, enabling believers to endure hardships with faith and perseverance. Revelation offers a vision of a future where suffering is eradicated, and God Himself wipes away every tear (Revelation 21:4). This promise of ultimate restoration and peace serves as a source of comfort and encouragement for believers facing the trials of this world. Greek 3148. mastix -- a whip, scourge ... whip, scourge. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: mastix Phonetic Spelling: (mas'-tix) Short Definition: a scourge, lash, sufferings Definition: (a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3148.htm - 7k 3958. pascho -- to suffer, to be acted on 3804. pathema -- that which befalls one, ie a suffering, a passion Strong's Hebrew 4341. makob -- pain... Word Origin from kaab Definition pain NASB Word Usage pain (10), painful (1), sorrow (1), sorrows (3), sufferings (1). grief, pain, sorrow. ... /hebrew/4341.htm - 6k Library Of Sufferings Consolation Proportionate to Spiritual Sufferings The Saints of God who Sufferings Bore, The Sufferings of Christ, and the New Covenant, were Announced by ... The Sufferings of Christ Reconciled with the Goodness of God. Sufferings of the Good. Sufferings of those who Maintained the Nicene Faith. Agelius, the ... The Eighteenth Chapter: Temporal Sufferings Should be Borne ... Psalm 22:3. LM Christ's Sufferings and Exaltation. Christ's Sufferings and Glory. Thesaurus Sufferings (27 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Sufferings (27 Occurrences). Acts 9:16 For I will let him know the great sufferings which he must pass through for My sake." (WEY). ... /s/sufferings.htm - 14k Endured (22 Occurrences) Encouragement (25 Occurrences) Eternal (166 Occurrences) Consolation (23 Occurrences) Sharers (14 Occurrences) Lamentations (6 Occurrences) Share (138 Occurrences) Christ's (64 Occurrences) Comfort (130 Occurrences) Resources What is lacking in Christ's afflictions (Colossians 1:24)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to be co-heirs/joint-heirs with Christ? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to endure hardship (2 Timothy 4:5)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sufferings (27 Occurrences)Acts 9:16 Romans 5:3 Romans 8:17 Romans 8:18 2 Corinthians 1:5 2 Corinthians 1:6 2 Corinthians 1:7 Galatians 3:4 Ephesians 3:13 Philippians 3:10 Colossians 1:24 1 Thessalonians 2:14 2 Timothy 3:11 Hebrews 2:10 Hebrews 5:8 Hebrews 10:32 Hebrews 10:33 Hebrews 12:3 Hebrews 12:7 1 Peter 1:11 1 Peter 4:13 1 Peter 5:1 1 Peter 5:9 Revelation 2:9 Exodus 3:7 2 Chronicles 21:19 Job 9:28 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |