Art Katz emphasizes the profound significance of Israel's suffering as a means to reveal the true church and the true God to the nations. He highlights that only the righteous are willing to suffer for others, particularly for Israel, who is both a suffering servant and a reflection of Christ's own sacrifice. Katz calls for a deeper understanding of God's purposes through suffering, urging the church to identify with Israel and participate in their journey. He warns against reducing the church's calling to mere programs, advocating instead for a prophetic and apostolic stature that embraces suffering for the sake of God's glory and Israel's redemption. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the church to awaken to its eternal destiny and the necessity of suffering in fulfilling God's redemptive plan.

In this sermon on Luke 12:49-50, the speaker explores the relationship between the "cut of the load" and the scattering of fire in the earth. He emphasizes that the scattering of fire is dependent upon the drinking of the cup, which is a symbol of suffering and persecution. The speaker highlights the historical examples of Martin Marshall and James, who both drank the cup and experienced persecution. He also emphasizes that the drinking of the cup leads to spiritual progress and enlargement, and that it is a demonstration of love, both from God and among believers.

This sermon emphasizes the importance of experiencing the fellowship of Christ's suffering, not just enduring personal trials but sharing in the suffering of others as Jesus did. It highlights the necessity of true spiritual experiences rooted in the Word of God and obedience to the Spirit, rather than relying on personal encounters. The speaker shares a personal testimony of feeling the birth pangs of Christ's suffering while preaching, leading to a profound stroke, illustrating the depth of spiritual connection. The message challenges believers to rebuild their altars of prayer, sacrifice, and devotion, renewing their commitment to God and clearing any hindrances in their spiritual walk.

In this sermon by Basil E. Schlink, he addresses the common experience of feeling tempted to give up and despair. He encourages listeners to not run away from difficulties, as life on earth is meant to be hard in order to overcome sin and be transformed into redeemed and joyful creatures. Schlink emphasizes the importance of embracing suffering and committing oneself to the cross, as Jesus suffered for us and understands our struggles. He concludes by urging listeners to trust in Jesus' love and victory, and to pray for endurance and trust in the midst of temptations.

Julian of Norwich preaches about the profound suffering and love of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that He endured more pain than all men combined, considering His divine worthiness and the ignominious death He faced. She reflects on the strength and tenderness of Jesus in His suffering, highlighting His ability to empathize with every person's sin, sorrow, and desolation out of kindness and love. Julian describes how Jesus willingly chose to endure such immense suffering out of His strong love for our souls, with the promise that the pains of Christ's Passion will ultimately lead to everlasting joy.

Thomas Bradbury preaches about the sufferings of Christ and how they abound in believers, leading to consolation through Christ. He emphasizes that from the time of Adam's sin, trials and tribulations have been part of the journey for God's chosen ones. The sermon delves into the physical, mental, and spiritual sufferings of Christ, highlighting His endurance and sacrifice for the salvation of His people. Bradbury encourages believers to find comfort in the fellowship of Christ's sufferings, knowing that their consolation also abounds through Him.

Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the importance of forsaking worldly possessions and desires for the sake of following Jesus, highlighting the joy and rewards that come from sacrificing for God. The sermon reflects on the promises Jesus made to those who give up everything for Him, emphasizing the eternal blessings and happiness that surpass worldly comforts. Through examples like Rutherford and Dr. Payson, Mortimer illustrates how true happiness and satisfaction are found in Christ alone, even amidst suffering and trials.

F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of suffering in the life of a believer, illustrating how it serves as a powerful testament to the reality of faith when endured with grace. He encourages Christians to view suffering as a divine gift that fosters deep communion with God and equips them to minister to others in pain. Meyer highlights the importance of maintaining a spirit of gratitude even in hardship, as well as the transformative power of Christ to subdue our struggles and anxieties. He reassures believers that God is attentive to their needs and will provide peace amidst life's challenges. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a prayerful and thankful attitude, trusting in God's provision and care.

G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the profound connection between believers and Christ through the fellowship of His sufferings, illustrating that in our pain and struggles, we are never alone as Christ shares in our suffering. He explains that this fellowship brings a unique joy, rooted in the understanding of sin and the purity it demands, which leads to a deeper relationship with God. Morgan highlights that our emotional responses to sin, misunderstanding, and the plight of others stem from our intimate knowledge of God and His love, reinforcing that our suffering is intertwined with His. Ultimately, he presents the paradox that true joy can be found in the shared experience of suffering with Christ.

George Kulp preaches about the discipline of suffering and the mysteries of God's dealings with us, emphasizing the need to trust in God's love and purpose even when we question 'Why?'. He illustrates how suffering can lead to growth and transformation, just like how a plowed field yields a harvest or a block of marble becomes a masterpiece through the chisel. Kulp highlights the example of Jesus, who endured suffering and rejection for our sakes, teaching us obedience through His own trials and tribulations.

John Henry Jowett preaches on the concept of filling up what is behind in the sufferings of Christ, emphasizing that while Jesus' sacrifice on Calvary is complete and all-sufficient, believers are called to continue His sacrificial work by sharing in His sufferings through ministry, intercession, beneficence, and service. Jowett highlights the importance of having a sacrificial spirit, vividly conscious of personal redemption, to truly fill up what is lacking in Christ's sufferings. He challenges listeners to be in the sacrificial succession, shedding blood in various forms of sacrificial living, echoing the sacrificial examples of martyrs and missionaries who have gone before us.

John Gill emphasizes that believers are called to do good and to endure suffering for their faith, drawing strength from Christ's own suffering as an example. He explains that Christ's sacrifice was not only for our benefit but also serves as a model for how we should respond to trials with patience and grace. Gill encourages the faithful to follow Christ's example in all aspects of life, including humility, prayer, and submission to God's will, especially in times of suffering. This calling to patience and perseverance is a vital part of the Christian journey.

C.H. Spurgeon invites believers to behold Jesus, the 'Emperor of Woe,' emphasizing that true joy and comfort come from understanding His profound suffering. He paints a vivid picture of Christ in Gethsemane, His agony on the cross, and the depth of His sorrow, urging sinners to look upon their suffering Lord. Spurgeon asserts that in contemplating Christ's pain, believers find healing for their own afflictions and a deeper appreciation for the hope found in His sacrifice. He encourages the faithful to remain at the foot of the cross, where they can find solace and strength amidst their own trials.

Rees Howells preaches about the importance of embracing sufferings for the Church, emphasizing that we must first finish our own sufferings before we can fully partake in Christ's sufferings. He highlights that the afflictions of Christ are intertwined with the afflictions of the kingdom, and as Isaiah mentioned, Christ is afflicted with us in our trials. Howells expresses his belief that God allows us to experience sufferings because Christ himself suffered alongside us. He distinguishes between self-affliction and affliction for the sake of others, noting that the sufferings of Christ are the most precious experience on earth.

John Nelson Darby emphasizes the dual joy of a Christian: present communion with God and the hope of Christ's return. He explains that these two elements are inseparable for spiritual strength and clarity, as waiting for Christ helps believers navigate the challenges of the world while maintaining a focus on God's promises. Darby warns that without this hope, Christians may become overwhelmed by worldly troubles, but with it, they can experience peace and joy in God's presence. He encourages believers to actively serve others out of the love they receive from God, which sustains them through trials. Ultimately, the anticipation of Christ's return enriches the believer's life and strengthens their faith.

John Follette preaches about the progression in the Christian journey beyond just serving the Lord, emphasizing the importance of taking up our cross after being yoked with Jesus. He explains that the cross symbolizes suffering, necessary for spiritual growth and fellowship with Christ. Follette highlights the significance of denying ourselves, not just material things, but the ruinous self-will within us, in order to fully surrender to God. He stresses that suffering is a part of every Christian's journey and leads to a deeper union with Christ, ultimately preparing us for glorification and reigning with Him.

F.J. Huegel emphasizes the profound connection between Christ's sufferings and our own, illustrating that believers are called to participate in both His tribulations and victories. He explains that while Christ's sacrificial suffering on the Cross is complete and cannot be added to, Christians are invited to share in the ongoing sufferings of Christ as they live out their faith. This participation not only deepens our identification with Christ but also transforms our suffering into a source of spiritual growth and compassion for others. Huegel encourages believers to rejoice in their sufferings, as they are a means through which Christ's life is manifested in us, ultimately leading to greater fruitfulness in our lives. He concludes with a message of hope, reminding us that our afflictions serve a divine purpose and contribute to the edification of the Church.

John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of humility and the dangers of pride, using the example of Paul's revelations and thorn in the flesh to illustrate the need to avoid boasting and to rely on God's grace in times of weakness. Paul's experiences of visions and revelations, including being caught up to the third heaven, highlight the mysteries of God's work beyond human understanding. Chrysostom emphasizes the strength found in weakness, as seen in Paul's willingness to endure persecutions, distresses, and hardships for the sake of Christ, ultimately leading to a deeper reliance on God's power and grace.

K.P. Yohannan emphasizes that Jesus’ life serves as our model for embracing suffering as part of our Christian journey. He challenges the modern notion of following Christ without the willingness to endure hardship, highlighting that suffering for Christ is a privilege and a necessary aspect of our faith. Yohannan points out that Jesus experienced suffering throughout His life, not just at the crucifixion, and that His example teaches us to deny ourselves and accept our own struggles. By following Christ's example, we can become agents of redemption, understanding that our suffering can lead to greater purposes in God's plan. Ultimately, the call is to align our will with God's, just as Jesus did in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Christopher Love, a martyr for his faith, writes a heartfelt letter to his wife on the day of his execution, encouraging her to find comfort in God's promises and to continue raising their children in the ways of the Lord. He emphasizes the importance of sound biblical teaching, prayer, meekness, and gratitude in the midst of trials. Love urges his wife to trust in God's covenant of grace and to surrender her will to God's, finding strength and joy in the Lord's presence. Despite the impending separation, he reassures her of his eternal union with Christ and advises her on potential remarriage, urging her to seek a godly partner.

Greek Word Studies for aid_number 35905 delves into the concept of 'pathema,' which refers to the actual suffering experienced by believers, particularly for their faith in Christ and to be conformed to His image. The sufferings of this life, as highlighted by Paul and Peter, are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed to believers. Believers are encouraged to rejoice in sufferings, knowing that they are not alone in their experiences and that such trials unite them with other Christians worldwide. Understanding the principles of the Word helps believers handle any suffering and resist Satan's schemes to discourage them.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter, who brings peace, joy, and consolation to believers. He explains that true peace comes from a deep relationship with God, while joy is a divine gift that transcends circumstances. Simpson encourages believers to cooperate with the Holy Spirit, especially during trials, as these moments can lead to profound joy and spiritual growth. He highlights that comfort is proportional to trial, and that the Holy Spirit's presence is essential for enduring life's challenges. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a faith that seeks to glorify God above all, leading to lasting joy and fulfillment.

John Follette emphasizes that suffering brings believers into the fellowship of the Trinity. He explains that the Father disciplines us as sons, the Son learned obedience through suffering, and the Holy Spirit works in our spirits amidst suffering. As part of the Body of Christ, we are called to partake in the suffering of our suffering God, who is also a God of love. Paul's example of dying daily illustrates the necessity of suffering in our spiritual journey, as it is through suffering, discipline, and obedience that we truly enter into God's presence.

Thomas Bradbury preaches about the importance of seeking heavenly things above earthly desires, emphasizing the need to set our affections on Christ and the spiritual realities found in Him. He contrasts the focus on Christ in the epistle to the Ephesians with the external trappings of Christianity in the epistle to the Colossians, urging believers to seek a continual coming of the Lord Jesus Christ in their lives. Bradbury highlights the believer's union with Christ in death, resurrection, and ascension, encouraging a deep spiritual communion with the risen and reigning Christ, leading to a transformation in the believer's life and desires.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound peace and joy that come from yielding one's will to God and embracing a humble heart. He highlights the blessings of hungering for righteousness and the satisfaction that surpasses worldly pleasures. Simpson further explains that true happiness is found in mercy, forgiveness, and the act of giving, which leads to a double blessing. He concludes with the idea that suffering for Christ transforms into a deeper joy, illustrating the paradox of experiencing both tears and joy simultaneously in the Christian life.