For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time
William MacDonald teaches that present sufferings, though intense and varied, are incomparable to the eternal glory that believers will experience in Christ.
In this sermon, William MacDonald explores the profound truth that the sufferings believers endure in this life are incomparable to the eternal glory that awaits them. Drawing from the Apostle Paul's writings, MacDonald provides a biblical perspective that encourages endurance and hope amidst trials. He highlights both the reality of present afflictions and the promise of future glory, motivating believers to remain steadfast in faith.
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“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” (Rom. 8:18)
Taken by themselves, the sufferings of this present time can be appalling. I think of the gruesome sufferings of the Christian martyrs. I think of what some of God’s people have had to endure in the concentration camps. What shall we say concerning the horrible sufferings associated with war? The cruel dismemberment and paralysis connected with accidents? The unspeakable pain of human bodies racked by cancer or other diseases?
And yet physical suffering isn’t the whole story. It seems at times that bodily pain is easier to bear than mental torture. Isn’t that what Solomon meant when he wrote, “The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity, but a wounded spirit who can bear?” (Prov. 18:14)? There is the suffering that comes with unfaithfulness in the marriage relationship, or with the death of a loved one, or with disappointment over a broken dream. There is the heartbreak of being forsaken, of being betrayed by a close friend. We wonder oftentimes at the ability of the human frame to endure the blows, the agonies, the crushing griefs of life.
Viewed by themselves, these sufferings are overwhelming. But when seen alongside the coming glory, they are only pinpricks. Paul says they are “not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” If the sufferings are so great, how much greater must be the glory!
In another passage, the Apostle Paul indulges in a delightful burst of spiritual imagery when he says that “our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Cor. 4:17). Seen on the scales, the afflictions are feather-light while the glory is infinitely heavy. Judged by the calendar, the sufferings are momentary while the glory is eternal.
When we see the Savior at the end of the journey, the sufferings of this present time will fade into insignificance.
It will be worth it all when we see Jesus.
Life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ.
One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase,
So bravely run the race till we see Christ.
Esther K. Rusthoi
Sermon Outline
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I. The Reality of Present Sufferings
- Physical sufferings of martyrs and believers
- Mental and emotional anguish surpassing bodily pain
- Examples of life's painful trials and heartbreaks
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II. The Perspective of Eternal Glory
- Paul’s declaration on glory surpassing suffering
- The temporary nature of affliction compared to eternal weight of glory
- The promise of future revelation of glory in believers
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III. Encouragement to Endure
- The hope found in seeing Christ at the journey’s end
- Suffering as momentary and light in comparison
- Motivation to bravely run the race of faith
Key Quotes
“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” — William MacDonald
“The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity, but a wounded spirit who can bear?” — William MacDonald
“Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- View present sufferings in light of the eternal glory promised by God.
- Find strength to endure trials by focusing on the hope of seeing Christ.
- Encourage others who are suffering by sharing the promise of future glory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Paul mean by 'the sufferings of this present time'?
Paul refers to the various physical, emotional, and spiritual trials believers face in this life.
How can suffering be compared to glory?
Suffering is temporary and light, while the glory to come is eternal and overwhelmingly greater.
Why is mental suffering sometimes harder than physical pain?
Mental and emotional anguish can deeply wound the spirit, which is often harder to bear than bodily pain.
How does this sermon encourage believers?
It encourages believers to endure present trials with hope, knowing that future glory with Christ far outweighs current sufferings.
What role does faith play in enduring suffering?
Faith anchors believers in the promise of eternal glory, giving strength to persevere through hardships.