In a world where we often try to avoid discomfort and difficulty, the concept of suffering for our faith can seem foreign. Yet Scripture teaches us that suffering is not only part of the Christian experience but can actually lead to incredible victory when we follow Christ’s example.
Why Did Jesus Have to Suffer?
The heart of the gospel lies in a profound truth: Jesus, who was perfectly righteous, died for us who are utterly unrighteous. His suffering wasn’t random or meaningless—it had a specific purpose. Christ suffered “once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God” (1 Peter 3:18). The phrase “bring us to God” carries deep significance. It literally means “to gain an audience at court.” In ancient times, not everyone could approach a king’s court—it was an exclusive, prestigious privilege. Through Christ’s suffering, we now have open access to God’s throne. We can boldly approach Him and receive His marvelous grace for our daily needs. This access was symbolically demonstrated when Jesus died and the temple veil was torn in two, showing that the barrier between God and humanity had been removed forever.
What Made Christ’s Sacrifice Different?
A Once-and-For-All Solution
Unlike the Old Testament system where animals were repeatedly sacrificed for sins, Jesus’ sacrifice was complete and final. The phrase “once for all” means “of perpetual validity, not requiring repetition.” This sacrifice was accomplished 2,000 years ago and doesn’t need to be repeated. The price has already been paid. Nothing we can do—no sacrifice we can make—can surpass, equal, or even come close to what Jesus provided on the cross.
Sin Was the True Cause
It’s crucial to understand that sin itself caused Christ’s death, not the Romans or the Jews. There had to be a perfect sacrifice to appease God’s wrath and pay for our sins. Jesus willingly endured this on behalf of all sinners.
What Happened Between Death and Resurrection?
While Jesus’ physical body was in the tomb, something remarkable occurred. Scripture tells us He was “made alive in the spirit” and went to preach to “the spirits in prison.”
Who Were These Spirits?
These spirits were a specific group of demons mentioned in Genesis 6—fallen angels who had taken earthly wives before Noah’s flood. Due to their extreme wickedness, they were imprisoned in a special place known as the abyss or pit of hell.
What Did Jesus Preach?
Jesus wasn’t evangelizing these demons—He was proclaiming victory over them. He showed them that He was alive and preached their judgment. This was a completion of Jesus’ triumph over evil, demonstrating His victory not only over sin but also over death itself. Even in the deepest pit of hell, every knee had to bow and acknowledge Jesus’ ultimate lordship.
How Does Noah’s Story Connect to Our Salvation?
Peter draws a parallel between Noah’s salvation through water and our salvation through baptism. Just as Noah was saved from God’s judgment through the ark, we are saved from judgment through Christ. The water of the flood washed away sin and wickedness, bringing a fresh start. Similarly, water baptism symbolizes our passage from the old life to the new life. When we’re baptized, going under the water represents dying to our old life, and coming up represents being raised into new life with Christ. However, it’s important to understand that we’re not saved by the water itself, but by our faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism is a public symbol of the work Christ has already done in our hearts.
Where Is Jesus Now?
Jesus now sits at the right hand of God the Father, where all angels, authorities, and powers are subject to Him. The right hand symbolizes the king’s power and authority. Jesus rightfully holds this position because of the suffering He endured and the redemption He accomplished. His name is above every other name, and one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
What Does This Mean for Our Suffering?
Suffering Is Part of the Package
As Christians, we often have an aversion to suffering. We try to make our lives as comfortable as possible, avoiding anything that might cause difficulty or offense. But Jesus didn’t call us to a life of comfort—He called us to a life of faith and obedience. Sometimes this means stepping out of our comfort zone, telling the truth even when it’s offensive, or following Him in faith despite knowing there will be consequences.
God Is Faithful Through Suffering
When we suffer for following Christ, we can have confidence that God will be faithful through it. Many believers have gone through difficult times simply because of their faith, initially questioning what was happening, but eventually realizing that God was faithful throughout the entire process. Going through difficulties isn’t necessarily a sign that we’ve done something wrong or that there’s sin in our lives. Sometimes God allows difficulties because He knows we’re the perfect person for that situation, and He’s using us to accomplish His purposes.
Life Application
This week, examine your approach to following Christ. Are you avoiding situations where you might face difficulty or opposition because of your faith? Challenge yourself to step out in faith, even when it’s uncomfortable. Consider these questions: – Am I trying to live such a comfortable Christian life that I’m avoiding opportunities to truly follow Christ? – When I face difficulties, do I immediately assume something is wrong, or do I trust that God might be using me for His purposes? – How can I better embrace the victory Christ has already won for me, especially when facing challenges? – What would change in my life if I truly believed that suffering for doing good can lead to God’s triumph? Remember that Christ’s ultimate victory came through His willingness to suffer for doing good. As His followers, we can trust that God will be faithful through any difficulties we face when we’re walking in obedience to Him.
