Refton Brethren in Christ Church

Timothy Keller - “We do not know the reason God allows evil and suffering to continue, or why it is so random, but now at least we know what the reason is not. It cannot be that he does not love us. It cannot be that he does not care. He is so committed to our ultimate happiness [He’s committed to bringing us back to Himself] that he was willing to plunge into the greatest depths of suffering himself. He understands us, he has been there, and he assures us that he has a plan to eventually wipe away every tear. Someone might say, “But that’s only half an answer to the question WHY?” Yes, but it is the half that we need.” (Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering)

1 Peter 2:4 - "As you come to him [Jesus]"

He allows for our suffering to happen because He knows it can be used to build us up and bring us closer to Him...

God is with us; He understands our pain because He’s been there; and through Him we have an assurance of an eternal future with Him where He will wipe away every tear.

Followers of Jesus are the individual stones that when put together make up the Church.

We’re being made holy - which means we’re being refined in our fiery ordeals (1 Pet 4:12) so that we reflect Jesus.

The function of the priests was to lead people to the Most High God!

If you’re a follower of Jesus, you’re chosen!

Recommended Reading:
1. Something Needs to Change, by David Platt
2. Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering, Timothy Keller