Hope in Suffering 05/07/23

Series: Romans

Hope in Suffering

Romans 8:18-30

I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.

John 16:33 

Why does God allow suffering?            

·      Sometimes suffering is used for correction.

·      Most suffering is the result of living In a fallen world.

Suffering in Hope

Christians can hope in suffering because today is not the end of their story. 

There is a now and a not yet aspect to the Christian life.

Creation was intended to host humanity and bring them joy;

however, it has endured our abuse and witnessed every sinful act.  And therefore, it groans for deliverance. 

Christians can hope in suffering because the Spirit helps them.  

Christians can hope in suffering because God uses suffering for a purpose. 

We know that all things work together for the good of those 

who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28  

2 purposes for suffering

·      God’s purpose in all things is to make you more like Jesus.     

·      God’s purpose in all things is to build anticipation about the future glory. 

Today’s takeaways

Everyone suffers, but only those who love Jesus have real hope. 

Christians should have realism about the present 

Christians should have gospel optimism about the future