Suffering: A Biblical Perspective
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Suffering: A Biblical Perspective

1 Peter 4:12–19  (ID: 1349)

Suffering is real, and it is painful. We can do our best to avoid it, but suffering’s certainty in this life is a reality we cannot avoid. Given that reality, how should we think biblically about suffering? In this sermon, Alistair Begg, with a pastor’s heart and gentle care, encourages us to live with perseverance and faith and to consider God’s purposes in our suffering.


Suffering as a Christian

12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory2 and of God rests upon you. 15But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18And

“If the righteous is scarcely saved,

what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”3

19Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

Copyright © 2024, Alistair Begg. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service.

Alistair Begg
Alistair Begg is Senior Pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio, and the Bible teacher on Truth For Life, which is heard on the radio and online around the world.