Suffering Well, Part 2
Here’s the second reason I think Paul and Silas suffered so well in prison in Acts 16…
They knew God was in control of their circumstances and he would work them out for their good and his glory.
When you read through the beginning of the book of Philippians, you quickly see Paul’s perspective on his suffering in prison. Here is how verses 12 to 26 read…
12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.
What is striking here is the attitude Paul has toward his imprisonment. He’s not complaining, but rejoicing. Why? Because he sees God using it for the sake of the Gospel. The whole palace guard has learned about Christ and people are more bold to preach the Gospel because of Paul’s chains. Paul, in other words, can see the hand of God in his affliction and is at peace knowing that whatever happens to him (life or death even) will turn out for the furtherance of the Gospel and the ultimate glory of God. So, he’s not worried or fretting.
I know we Christians don’t like to be trite these days by telling our suffering selves (and others) that God is in control when we are facing adversity. I know that there are those who have been careless with words like that and not allowed people to sufficiently grieve. But, I can’t help but think we are a bit too ready to turn our noses up at the only truth that will really help us persevere amidst trial. God is in control. He is going to work out all things for our good. We do have a hope that no one can take from us. These facts form the basis for our joy. Knowing them deep in the spirit makes all the difference when life turns upside down.
So, all this is to say – Suffer well brothers and sisters. Peter probably said it best… “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Pet. 5:10-11).
#1 from Nancy Williams on November 24, 2009
Hi Jeff,
I agree that Paul & Silas suffered well because they knew that God was in control and would work all things out for His glory ... but ... I think also they suffered better than many of us do because they had the prayers and support of those they loved deeply buried in their hearts. The sense I get when I read Philippians is that Paul & Silas knew their supporters were deeply genuine and perhaps also suffered personally over their circumstances. Paul says in Philippians 4:13-14 “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.” This church cared deeply when no other church did (at least in the area of giving and receiving, 4:vs15-16). My personal opinion is that this caring body added to God’s provision and added to their joy. We can’t underestimate the power of community; it can either make us or break us.
I also think that when we know what we have been personally called to in life we are better able to maintain perspective in our circumstances and use our challenges to grow in our faith and strengthen others along the way.
Thank you Jeff for your commitment to God’s own.