Sharing In Christ's Sufferings (Clip)
William Henderson teaches that sharing in Christ's sufferings, especially when unjustly wronged, brings believers into deeper fellowship with Him and strengthens their ministry focus.
This sermon emphasizes the concept of suffering for someone else's wrongdoing and how it can bring believers closer to the Lord. By enduring unjust suffering, individuals can identify more closely with Jesus, fostering a deeper fellowship with Him. The message highlights Christ's example of not seeking personal justice but entrusting all wrongs to God for judgment, urging listeners to stay focused on their ministry rather than being distracted by self-defense.
Full Transcript
So when you go, when you suffer for wrong, for somebody else's wrongdoing, you haven't done anything, that that's what the Lord did. You actually can identify closer with the Lord. It's, you're sharing in something the Lord shared in that you never shared before and so it brings you closer enjoyment and fellowship with the Lord.
Christ did nothing wrong but he released wrongs against him to his father to be judged. He didn't seek justice and I just want to make this point, the enemy wants to keep us from not being on target and so if the enemy can keep, can take us off the target into a just cause like defending yourself, he wins because you pulled yourself out of ministry to defend yourself.
Sermon Outline
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I. Understanding Christ's Sufferings
- Christ suffered unjustly without wrongdoing
- He entrusted judgment to the Father
- His sufferings serve as a model for believers
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II. Sharing in Christ's Sufferings
- Suffering for others' wrongs brings believers closer to Christ
- It deepens fellowship and enjoyment with the Lord
- Believers identify with Christ through unjust suffering
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III. Avoiding the Enemy's Trap
- The enemy distracts believers by provoking self-defense
- Defending oneself can pull one out of ministry
- Remaining focused on Christ's example preserves ministry effectiveness
Key Quotes
“So when you go, when you suffer for wrong, for somebody else's wrongdoing, you haven't done anything, that that's what the Lord did.” — William Henderson
“Christ did nothing wrong but he released wrongs against him to his father to be judged.” — William Henderson
“If the enemy can take us off the target into a just cause like defending yourself, he wins because you pulled yourself out of ministry to defend yourself.” — William Henderson
Application Points
- When facing unjust suffering, remember Christ's example and entrust your situation to God rather than seeking personal justice.
- Avoid distractions that pull you away from your spiritual calling, especially the temptation to defend yourself.
- Embrace suffering as a means to deepen your relationship and fellowship with the Lord.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to share in Christ's sufferings?
It means experiencing unjust suffering like Christ did, which draws believers closer to Him and strengthens their faith.
Why shouldn't believers defend themselves when wronged?
Defending oneself can distract from ministry and allow the enemy to derail spiritual focus.
How does suffering bring enjoyment and fellowship with the Lord?
Suffering aligns believers with Christ's experience, fostering deeper intimacy and joy in their relationship with Him.
What role does the enemy play in believers' suffering?
The enemy tries to divert believers from their spiritual calling by provoking them to justify or defend themselves.