THE CALL TO FOLLOW THE SUFFERING SAVIOR By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." (Matthew 16:24, ESV)
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Introduction
In a world where comfort and convenience are often prioritized, the message of suffering in the Christian journey is largely ignored. Many professing believers are drawn to a version of Christianity that promises only blessings, prosperity, and ease, while avoiding the reality of suffering. Yet, Jesus Christ, our Savior, was known as the Suffering Savior. He endured pain, rejection, and ultimately death on the cross to redeem humanity. His life serves as the perfect example for those who would truly follow Him.
This article explores the call to follow the Suffering Savior, emphasizing the importance of embracing suffering as part of the Christian walk. It challenges the modern misconception of a pain-free faith and calls believers to align their lives with the true Gospel.
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Jesus Christ: The Suffering Savior
The Bible makes it abundantly clear that Jesus was no stranger to suffering. He came into a fallen world not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). He experienced betrayal, mockery, torture, and crucifixion. The prophet Isaiah foretold this suffering centuries before Christ's arrival:
"He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief... He was pierced for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities." (Isaiah 53:3,5, ESV)
Despite His innocence, Jesus bore the sins of humanity, demonstrating the ultimate act of sacrificial love. If Jesus, the Son of God, suffered, how much more should His followers expect to endure trials and tribulations?
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Misconceptions About Christianity
Many today believe that being a Christian means a life free of hardship. Some assume that because they grew up in a Christian family or attended church, they are automatically part of God’s kingdom. However, true Christianity is not about religious affiliation but about walking in the footsteps of Christ. Jesus Himself warned:
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 7:21, ESV)
Being a follower of Christ requires more than passive belief. It demands active obedience, self-denial, and willingness to endure suffering for His sake.
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The Reality of Suffering in the Christian Walk
Jesus never promised an easy life for His followers. Instead, He assured them that they would face persecution, trials, and hardships:
"In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33, ESV)
Suffering is not a sign of God's abandonment but rather a refining process. Just as gold is purified in fire, believers are purified through trials. The Apostle Paul declared:
"Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2 Timothy 3:12, ESV)
Christians must embrace suffering as part of God's divine plan, knowing that it molds them into the image of Christ.
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The Dangers of a Compromised Gospel
Many churches today preach a distorted Gospel that eliminates suffering and promotes a self-centered Christianity. False teachers present God as a divine provider of material wealth rather than the righteous King who calls His people to holiness. The Apostle Paul warned against such deception:
"For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions." (2 Timothy 4:3, ESV)
A Christianity without suffering is a Christianity without the cross. Jesus did not come to cater to our desires but to call us to surrender and obedience. Those who follow a counterfeit Gospel will ultimately be unprepared for the trials of life and may fall away when challenges arise.
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The Call to True Discipleship
Following Jesus requires a commitment to self-denial, obedience, and endurance. He made it clear that discipleship is costly:
"If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." (Matthew 16:24, ESV)
True disciples do not shrink back from suffering but embrace it as part of their calling. They understand that their reward is not in this life but in eternity. The Apostle Peter encouraged believers:
"Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you... But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings." (1 Peter 4:12-13, ESV)
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Summary and Conclusion
Christianity is not a path of ease but of endurance. Jesus, the Suffering Savior, set the example for His followers, showing that suffering is part of God's plan for refining His people. The true Gospel calls for self-denial, faithfulness, and willingness to suffer for Christ.
Those who seek a Christianity devoid of suffering are following a false doctrine that will ultimately lead to disappointment. Instead, believers are called to embrace trials with faith, knowing that suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-4).
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Call to Action
Are you willing to follow the Suffering Savior? Will you surrender your life completely to Christ, even if it means enduring hardship? Today, make the decision to walk in true discipleship, embracing both the sufferings and the glory that come with following Jesus.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Take courage, for you are not alone in your suffering. Jesus has walked this path before you, and He walks with you still. He has overcome the world, and through Him, you too will overcome.
"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." (Romans 8:18, ESV)
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Prayer of Salvation
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of salvation. I believe that You suffered and died on the cross for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I repent of my sins and ask You to come into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Help me to follow You faithfully, even in times of suffering. Strengthen me to walk in obedience and trust in Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
