Few Will Suffer for the Lord, Yet He Died for Them By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us."
– 2 Timothy 2:12 (KJV)
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Introduction
In this wicked and rebellious generation, the number of those willing to endure hardships for the sake of Christ is alarmingly small. Despite His ultimate sacrifice for all, many resist the path of suffering that shapes and refines believers into vessels of honor for the Lord. Instead, they cling to comfort, pride, and self-will, rejecting the maturing work that God seeks to accomplish in them. This message calls us to reflect on the true meaning of following Christ and challenges us to remain steadfast even in times of trial.
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Few Are Willing to Endure
The Lord laments the scarcity of believers willing to suffer for His sake. Many claim to love Him, yet their actions reveal the opposite.
"Endure hardship as a good soldier of Christ Jesus." – 2 Timothy 2:3 (NIV)
Rather than embracing trials as a means to grow in character, many crumble under pressure, complaining and resisting the very circumstances meant to shape them into the image of Christ. Such believers hinder their spiritual growth, failing to bear the fruit God desires.
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The Consequences of Rebellion
When believers refuse to endure or submit to God’s discipline, they stray into rebellion, bringing confusion and judgment upon themselves.
"For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry." – 1 Samuel 15:23 (KJV)
God desires a humble and obedient heart, yet many reject His ways, choosing instead to follow their own desires. This rebellion grieves the heart of God and invites His righteous wrath upon those who persist in disobedience.
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The Call to Maturity in Christ
God calls His people to grow in spiritual maturity, embracing the trials and challenges that refine their faith.
"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." – Romans 5:3-4 (NIV)
Through endurance, we develop Christlike character, becoming living testimonies of His Kingdom. Rejecting this process results in spiritual stagnation and failure to fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.
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The Cost of Refusing to Mature
Those who resist God’s refining work not only harm their spiritual lives but also weaken the testimony of the Church.
"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." – Matthew 5:13 (NIV)
The rebellion and immaturity of believers contribute to the moral decay of society. Without the light of Christ shining through His people, darkness prevails.
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God’s Justice and Mercy
While God is merciful and patient, He will not tolerate perpetual rebellion. His justice demands accountability.
"The Lord is slow to anger, but great in power; the Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished." – Nahum 1:3 (NIV)
Even in His judgment, God offers an opportunity for repentance. Those who turn back to Him in humility will find mercy and restoration.
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Summary
Few are willing to endure the trials that come with following Christ, yet this is the path to spiritual growth and eternal reward. Rebellion and self-will lead only to judgment and separation from God. However, through humility, obedience, and perseverance, believers can fulfill God’s purpose and bring glory to His name.
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Conclusion
The Christian walk requires endurance, humility, and unwavering faith in the Lord. God uses trials to shape His people into vessels of honor, but only those who submit to His refining process will reap the rewards of eternal life.
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Call to Action
Take time to reflect on your walk with God. Are you willing to endure suffering for His sake? Surrender your self-will and embrace the trials that draw you closer to Him. Seek His guidance daily and trust that He is working all things for your good.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged, for God has not abandoned you. He is your strength and refuge in times of trial.
"The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge." – Psalm 18:2 (NIV)
Stay steadfast in your faith, and you will experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from walking in obedience to the Lord. Let us be among the few who suffer for His sake, knowing that our reward is great in Heaven.
