Suffering For Christ

II Corinthians 11:22–33
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Some of Paul’s religious assailants in Corinth were no doubt Jews. They hurled the charge at Paul that he was no true Hebrew. They said he had apostatized from the faith and that he could not possibly be a faithful minister of God. What Paul does here is demonstrate the depth of his commitment by delineating the sufferings and trials he endured because of it. First, he insists that he is indeed an Israelite and a genuine minister (vv. 21-23). Then he launches into a description of his personal experiences as an apostle. Paul proceeds to describe his own experiences and consecration to God (vv. 24-25). As examples of dedication and privilege his list include dangers, pain, and pressures from all sides (vv. 26-28). The apostle is deeply concerned about the weaker brethren, and he “burned” with indignation when he thought of those who would lead them astray (vv. 29-31). Paul ended this narration of his sufferings by telling of his humiliating experience in Damascus, where he was smuggled out of the city in a basket (vv. 32-33).

While it is true that any traveler could have suffered these things, Paul endured them because of his love for Christ and for the Christians. Each trial left its mark on his life, and yet he just kept moving on, serving the Lord. If the Lord places you in a position of leadership and authority, remember Paul’s kind of empathy and concern for people. 

Application

The trials and hurts I experience will build character in my life, demonstrate my faith in the Lord and prepare me to further serve Him.