Suffering: Position or Disposition

Today, Bishop Rodgers teaches from 1st Peter 4:14-18 on suffering. The fiery trial is a refining process, by which God removes the dross and purifies us. God's judgment begins "at the house of God." There are 3 main questions we, as believers, need to ask as it relates to suffering: (1) Why am I suffering?; (2) Am I ashamed, or glorifying Christ?; and (3) Am I seeking to win the lost? We as Christians are not guaranteed we will escape the normal consequences of our misdeeds. If we as Christians, get in trouble or become meddler, we ought to suffer for our sin. An "evil doer" is defined as a "wicked person; or one who is guilty of injustice & wrong towards others." There is a certain amount of disgrace in any sort of public suffering. On the cross, Jesus Christ despised shame for us, so we can bear reproach for Him and not be ashamed. The "lost" are defined as "those who do not obey God." To prevent the loss of efforts, the Lord must give us a new heart. We pray as you listen to this message, the Lord will show you areas of your heart that need to be cleanse. Have a safe and blessed week.