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NASB | Colossians 1:24 ¶ Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church, in filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Colossians 1:24 ¶ Now I rejoice in my sufferings on your behalf. And with my own body I supplement whatever is lacking [on our part] of Christ's afflictions, on behalf of His body, which is the church. |
Bible Question:
Thanks for your reply, Creed. I agree that it is important to find the lesson in suffering, and that all suffering contains a hidden gift, a lesson, an inner transformation ("We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Rom 5:3-4)) But, to get back to the question, do you believe such things as I have listed can be suffered bravely "for Christ's sake," or that such sufferings are joined to His passion and sacrifice here on Earth? --Cheryl |
Bible Answer: Scripture ... Mat 6:16-18, 2 Co 11:16 - 12:10; Col 1:24 ... Cheryl, I think it is time to end this thread. You lists aren't exactly suffering for His sake. Read what Paul wrote (2 Co 11:16 - 12:10). I think that covers the sufferings found elsewhere in the Bible. -Jesus said "when you fast" (Mat 6:16-18) and it is not part of suffering. -We may be in an abusive marriage - but unless it is because we are innoncent, it is not suffering for Him. Even if we are, it may not be. -Losing a job because of the economic situation is not suffering for Him. If you study the church of Thyatira, you'll see that people lost their jobs because they didn't want to become part of the "trade union" which went to the temple to meet. -Caring for an elderly parent instead of putting them in a nursing home is something we should do (MarkĀ 7:9-13) -Getting hit by a hit-and-run drunk driver, and suffering a broken pelvis is just an accident. Yes, we may suffer ... but, it is most likely not for His sake. You asked" Which of these situations can legitimately be offered up in conjunction with the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, and why?" My answer is none, and I gave my reasons. Today it would be brothers and sisters who do lose work, home ... because they are Christians. They also are beaten, imprisoned and even killed for His name's sake. I see many mistaught about "bearing own's cross", too ... it is an instrument of death, a humiliating death, even. I hope this clears things up, Searcher |