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The fellowship of His suffering

Text: Philippians 3
21 September 2008

(I) THE PROBLEM OF SUFFERING

1. As a part of human life and experience

2. Caused by wicked people

3. Created by self

(II) THE PURPOSES OF SUFFERING

1. As a cleansing process employed by God

2. As a teaching tool to help us learn about life

(III) A PROFOUND ASPECT OFFERED

“That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” Philippians 3:10

1. There is general knowledge of Christ

a) Basic knowledge of His life

b) Salvific knowledge of Christ

2. There is a profound aspect of the knowledge of Christ

a) Knowledge that leads to power (of His resurrection)

b) Knowledge that leads to embracing suffering for Christ’s sake

c) Knowledge that sees suffering is wonderful “fellowship” with Christ

d) Knowledge that dares to accept the concept of conformity to Christ’s death

(IV) THE REALITY OF SUFFERINGS IN PAUL’S LIFE

1. His imprisonment (Philippians 1:12-14)

2. His joy despite suffering (Philippians 1:18)

3. Believing in Christ and suffering for Him (Philippians 1:29-30)

(V) WHEREIN IS THE FELLOWSHIP IN SUFFERING?

1. It is a demonstration of deep faith/trust in the Lord

2. It is a special way of identifying with the Lord

3. It brings great encouragement to others (Philippians 1:17)

4. It creates and cultivates a special sense of relationship with the Lord

5. It creates even greater understanding of the Lord Himself