INTRODUCTION

1. Our Identification with Christ

2. This is Key

a) Identification with His death

b) Identification with His resurrection

c) Through faith and identification:

i) We have Justification

ii) We have Salvation

iii) We have reconciliation

d) These are truths that were proclaimed boldly

i) The Apostle Peter 1 Peter 1

ii) The Apostle Paul Romans 4-6

 

THE CHALLENGE TO LOOK AT IDENTIFICATION IN SUFFERING

1. Tribulation

a) In general, it may refer to suffering

b) Circumstantial suffering

c) Common suffering (world-wide Covid-19)

2. Suffering

a) In particular, it is a reference to suffering for the Lord Jesus Christ

b) We must not be afraid of suffering for the sake of Christ

 

THE SUFFERINGS OF CHRIST ABOUND IN US

1. There is similarity to be noted

a) Jesus was opposed

b) He was rejected

c) He was plotted against

d) He was falsely charged

e) He suffered terribly on the Cross

2. We may also see our sufferings abounding (though not necessarily in the same intensity)

a) Opposition

b) Persecution

c) Reviling

d) Evil speaking

 

OUR CONFIDENCE

1. Our Comfort would also abound 2 Corinthians 1:5

2. God’s grace and peace will abound too

a) God’s help

b) His presence

c) His supply of strength

3. Appropriate response

a) Faith unshaken

b) Confidence steadfast

c) Strength maintained