How do we know that suffering is part of the Christian life?
Answered in 1 source
Suffering is acknowledged in Scripture as an integral part of the Christian experience, often leading to growth and sanctification.
Scripture makes it clear that suffering is an expected aspect of the Christian life. In John 21:18-19, Jesus forewarns Peter that following Him will lead to suffering and ultimately death, which indicates that trials are not peripheral but rather central to the believer's journey toward sanctification. Furthermore, 1 Peter 4:12-13 encourages believers not to be surprised by the fiery trials they face, affirming that suffering has a divine purpose.
The Apostle Paul adds that our sufferings produce endurance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-5), suggesting that God uses trials to refine believers and draw them closer to Himself. This doctrine of suffering aligns with the biblical narrative of Jesus, who suffered immensely yet remained without sin. Thus, to be a follower of Christ is to embrace the reality that suffering is often a pathway to deeper faith, greater dependence on God, and eventual glorification.
Commentary