Suffering and the Glory of God

Next week, we will celebrate our nation’s independence - the date in which representatives of the 13 original colonies signed a Declaration of Independence. One of the most famous lines from that declaration is this:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

There are words in that sentence that could be pondered and meditated upon profoundly, but the basic sentiment is clear - we are...

created

equal - by the Creator!

and have certain unalienable Rights - including

life - the expectation and right to live

Liberty - the ability to make several choices and express some form of free will

Pursuit of Happiness - the pursuit of some sort of enjoyment in this life.

There is so much in that statement that we could reflect upon in light of the recent Supreme Court decision regarding abortion.

now the unborn have (at least on the Federal level) a right to life

many will feel that the Liberties of women have been infringed upon - but the liberties of the unborn have been upheld.

Some will feel that this decision inhibits their ability to pursue happiness.

My intention here is not to politicize our church or to ostracize anyone. But I do want to reference the Declaration of Independence for a moment - to contemplate on this idea of pursuing happiness.

What does that mean?

What does it mean for you or for me?

Now, I recognize this is not our constitution. This is also not our Scripture. It’s simply a document that made bold statements against what some felt to be an oppressive, overreaching, and distant regime.

But, think about the world view of those who penned those words. There was an understanding that all humans were created! Which means there is a Creator.

But beyond that, all humans were created “equal.”

What does that mean?

Equal in value? - I think yes - though we could say that wasn’t always equitably applied. As Christians, I think we would even include that all people - men, women, girls, boys, people of every ethnicity or race - are created in the image of God.

Equal in ability? - Experience tells us we have to respond “no” - all of us have been given differing abilities, desires, strengths, weaknesses.

Equal in experience? - certainly not

If we’re all equal in value, how do we deal with the inequities or unfairness of the fact that some people are born with differing abilities?

How do we wrestle with the fact that many people are born with varying disabilities?

How does an equal pursuit of happiness play into the fact that some people will be disadvantaged by experiences such as abuse, divorce, disease, sickness, infertility, and more?

I bring that up, because, I think it relates well to the text before us today.

If you have your bibles, go ahead and open them to John 9. Now, we will not have any slides today - so referring to your Bible’s will be very helpful.

I believe all of those “disadvantages” or “inequities” could fall under a broad category of suffering.

Suffering can take a variety of forms.

In fact, the dictionary on my computer defines suffering as:

the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship

Equally valued in creation, but not equally experienced because of suffering.

So, let’s begin our investigation into the Word of God by considering:

The Question of Suffering (9:1-2)

John 9:1–2 ESV

As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth. And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”

The disciples clearly had a perspective that suffering happened because of sin. Common among first century jews - and others - that suffering is directly related to sin or bad actions.

They are not alone. There are many parts of the world that would agree. Something bad, something evil that someone did caused this man to be born blind.

But think about the natural outworking of their question - how could this man have sinned before he was born?

Was he overly rambunctious in-utero?

Was he willfully rebellious before he was born?

Clearly this man’s blindness was a hardship - a form of suffering. It must have a logical source!

Let’s consider various:

Sources of Suffering

Consequences of our own actions -

when I talked back to my mom or hit my brother - the spanking I received was clearly a consequence of my own actions.

Or when I got C in the College Calculus class or the English correspondence course I took, there were clear markers that I did not do something right. I did not measure up and suffered a lower grade as a result.

Consequences of the actions of others

When Danielle was rear-ended by a student driving a Jeep several months ago - she clearly suffered as a consequence of the actions of others - her car was totaled, her shoulder was injured - resulting in several months of therapy with Pat at the Physical therapy place here in town.

But, in addition to that, as Christians, we could also see that there are...

Consequences of living in a fallen world

The original sin of Adam and Eve has borne outcomes in this world that were not initially intended by God (though, I believe He did expect them - which is why there has been a plan of salvation from the beginning of the world).

I don’t think that we’ll fully understand the extent of our fallen world’s consequences this side of eternity - but if God created Adam and Eve to live practically for eternity - the 80-120 years that we’ve been given pales in comparison - and that is sin’s dreadful consequence.

But there is another source of suffering that we have to consider -

Direct ordination of God. In one sense, if God is sovereign, and I believe he is- then all suffering is ordained by God. But, there are sufferings that we must endure, that we must consider that can only be explained by God’s sovereign will.

Mark/Paul Butman?

Jacquelynette’s early death?

The invasive cancer that our friend Tanya Ehler is going through

The loss of a certain job or being overlooked on this promotion or that opportunity.

Why is it that some people who desperately want children can’t have them, and those who are promiscuous and can’t control themselves seem to have an abundance?

God has a hand in our suffering - but I don’t think he is tortuous in that. He’s not playing with us - he’s forming us through that.

In response to His disciple’s question, Jesus seems to answer that question by helping them and and us understand that...

Suffering allows the works of God to be on display in unique and beautiful ways (9:3-7)

John 9:3–7 ESV

Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” Having said these things, he spit on the ground and made mud with the saliva. Then he anointed the man’s eyes with the mud and said to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing.

The man was healed - a “sign” which brought fulfillment to the prophecy of Isaiah 29:18; 35:5 - that messiah would bring sight to the blind. Think about this, there was a time when God foretold through his prophets that the blind would receive sight:

Isaiah 29:18 ESV

In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see.

Isaiah 35:5 ESV

Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped;

But there were many in Palestine at that time who did not receive their sight.

There were many in Palestine at that time who did not receive healing or relief from their suffering

There are many today who are not healed - many good and godly people who suffer with blindness, deafness, differing abilities, loss, and so much more.

In this chapter, we see that Jesus clearly heals this man. We may think - yeah - good for him, but what about me?

Did you know the Apostle Paul asked a very similar question? He says in:

2 Corinthians 12:7–9 ESV

So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

In another place, Paul tells the people of Colossae that:

Colossians 1:24 ESV

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church,

Or, what if we were to consider the life of Job? We sang a song inspired by the life of Job earlier. The entire book reflects on the suffering of a godly man who lost his health, his family, and his wealth.

Or we could even consider things today. Frankly, I don’t feel equipped to talk sufficiently through this subject. Sure, I have my own inabilities - or sufferings

poor eyesight

a metabolism that loves sweet things and carbs -but clearly can’t handle them

a good student, but a mediocre athlete

etc.

Sure, I’ve suffered some loss - my parents’ divorce, the disappointment in a job - but if we were to compare my suffering to some of yours, you would clearly win.

But look at this - thinking back to our passage - even when this man received his sight - the very thing that both he and his parents and everyone around him would have wanted - he still wasn’t free from suffering.

The neighbors questioned whether it was really him (John 9:8-12)

The religious leaders berated both he and his parents because this happened on a Sabbath - on a holy day (John 9:13-33)

Eventually - this man was kicked out of the synagogue (John 9:34)

So he receives the very thing that he wanted, but it cost him virtually everything else. Even in the healing, there was suffering as he and his parent faced a crisis of faith through the conflict with the pharisees.

Eventually, this man came to saving faith! (John 9:35-41)

So, how is God glorified through suffering? How are we edified through suffering?

John 9:3–5 ESV

Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

Milne, one of the commentator’s that I’ve been reading, notes:

“Jesus links the disciples with himself in referring to his work, an anticipation of his teaching in chapters 13-16. In a larger sense, it anticipates the coming ages when the risen Lord himself would be at work in the world through his people.”

It seems that Jesus is getting to the truth that the source of the suffering is not as important as the ministry through the suffering.

We have a part to play in God’s work within the suffering of his people. Our suffering may not result in a happy ending. The pursuit of happiness (as our Declaration of Independence implies) or the pursuit of godliness - does not produce the “happily every after of fairy tales,” but it does reveal the work of God in our lives - the dependence of God in our lives.

So what! what does that mean for us?

So What!

Pray and seek God for His will in the midst of the suffering/challenges - suffering can be a sort of “wake up call” for us. There is a contentment that can arise, even in the midst of suffering.

This week at M-Fuge - the camp pastor quote Phil. 4:13

Philippians 4:13 NIV84

I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

We like to take encouragement and empowerment from that. But as Pastor Mark said - all things does not imply me being able to dunk a basketball.

Consider the context:

Philippians 4:10–13 ESV

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Suffering forces us to rely on God - however he works and provides.

Secondly

When we see others suffer, how can God be glorified through that? Is there something we must do to step up and to help?

Knights - food, assistance with yardwork.

Pray to be faithful - no matter what challenges may come

Joseph - sold, wrongfully accused, prison (Gen. 37-50),

Job -

Next week, Pastor Armal will talk about a situation with Jesus and his disciples where they suffered through sacrifice - only to be promised a reward in this life and in eternity - a promise that I believe is there for all of those who believe.

As we close, there are so many stories that I would love to share with you. Some with happy endings, some with disappointment.

As I was preparing for today, my father in law shared this email.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” - Philippians 4:13

Dear Family,

This past week was a good week for eating and exercising again for Teresa. Like last week, Teresa’s nausea episodes were few and we are thankful.  More work is still needed for the eyes and we thank you for your prayers.  Teresa  will have an MRI on Tuesday and meet with her neurosurgeon for an update, please keep this in prayer.   The challenge is still before us and we have some distance to go to full recovery.  Your prayer support will be needed every step of the way.

Thank you for staying with us on this journey.

In Christ,

Fletcher & Nancy

Let me provide some context. Nearly a year ago, Danielle’s next youngest sister - her Irish twin - was fighting a tumor. Incidentally, the same kind of tumor that took Bev Horsley’s life.

Why did Teresa face this?

Why Bev?

In July of 2021, Teresa went into surgery to remove the benign tumor that had attached itself to her optic nerve and had been impeding her vision and caused her headaches was removed. A week later, she was released to go home to recover. five days later, when nausea prevented her recovery, Teresa was readmitted to ICU - for over 2 months. She lost roughly 25% of her body mass and generally lost a great deal of her muscle strength. She was eventually released from ICU into the care of her family. Since October, she and her father (my father in law), have been tracking food, walking, gradually increasing strength in order to bring her back to some sense of normalcy.

Teresa continues to deal with double vision. She is still very weak. And yet, Fletcher and Nancy’s weekly emails and daily attention to Teresa’s needs have become a testimony to so many people. God may never restore her strength. She was a wonderful volleyball, basketball and softball player. God may never allow her to work again - she’s only 48. But God’s witness through her suffering, through Fletcher’s faith and persistence have blessed so many people.

You see, there is another thing that suffering does - it humbles us some to allow us to identify with the suffering that Jesus encountered on our behalf. We can’t fully understand exactly how much he sacrificed for us - but he gave up the glories of heaven, of eternity, so that he could be born in human likeness. The One human who deserved to be King of the world, then humbled himself to be obedient - even to the point of death.

Paul writes it this way:

Philippians 2:5–11 NIV84

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

You see, when we suffer, we get to identify with a glimpse of the suffering our saviour went through for us.

We won’t be exalted above every name. We may not receive the healing, relief, fulfillment that we desire, but we will be able to identify with Jesus and can seek to glorify God through it.

We don’t have to like it, but we can trust that God is working something beautiful in and through us.

Let’s pray.

Hebrews 13:20–21 ESV

Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Sources:

https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript

Beeke, Joel R. and Paul M. Smiley. Reformed Systematic Theology, Volume 2: Man and Christ. Wheaton, IL. Crossway, 2020.

Burge, Gary M. The NIV Application Commentary: John. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2000.

Carson, D. A. The Gospel according to John. The Pillar New Testament Commentary. Leicester, England; Grand Rapids, MI: Inter-Varsity Press; W.B. Eerdmans, 1991.

Crossway Bibles. The ESV Study Bible. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2008.

Gangel, Kenneth O. John. Vol. 4. Holman New Testament Commentary. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000.

Milne, Bruce. The Message of John (The Bible Speaks Today). Downers Grove, IL. Inter-Varsity Press, 1993