Letters | Week 3 | June 22, 2020 | Scott Gossenberger

Scripture:
Revelation 2:8-11

WHAT DOES JESUS WANT US TO KNOW ABOUT SUFFERING?

• (Revelation 2:8) The life of Jesus proclaims that suffering is certain but not terminal.

14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.
John 3:14-15 

• (Revelation 2:9) Jesus is not indifferent towards our pain. He is with us.
(“I know”)

He who watches over you will not slumber…
Psalm 121:3

The Lord watches over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Psalm 121:8

(Revelation 2:10) Don’t be afraid of what is fearsome.
(“Do not be afraid”)

(Revelation 2:10) Hardships are meant to build my confidence.
(“To test”)

HOW DOES HARDSHIP TEST ME?

• Hardship tests the goodness of the Father.

• Hardship tests my value.

HOW DO WE GAIN CONFIDENCE IN SPITE OF THE FEARSOME THREATS OF HARDSHIP THAT SHAKE OUR TRUST IN GOD’S GOODNESS AND OUR WORTH?

• Be faithful.

FAITHFULNESS ISN’T DEPENDENT ON THE OBJECT OF LOVE BUT ON THE CHARACTER OF THE ONE POSSESSING FAITHFULNESS.

(Revelation 2:10,11) There is a reward for faithfulness in our suffering.