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  TRIUMPH IN TRIBULATION
  by Theodore Epp
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Summary: As believers, we can rejoice in tribulation because God is
working all things together for our good and His glory.

Topics: "Spiritual Growth", "Rejoicing in Tribulation"
Scripture References: John 16:33, Romans 5:3, Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 4:7-18

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DESCRIPTION
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Theodore Epp emphasizes the transformative power of tribulation in the
life of a believer, encouraging Christians to rejoice in their
difficulties rather than merely endure them. He explains that true joy
comes from understanding that tribulations are part of God's plan to
mold us into the image of Christ, as highlighted in Romans 5:3 and
Romans 8:28. Epp reminds us that while tribulations are challenging,
they are essential for spiritual growth and character development,
ultimately leading to peace through Christ's victory over the world.

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CONTENT
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Romans 5:3; 2 Corinthians 4:7-18

Humanly speaking, no one likes tribulation. Within ourselves we react
negatively to difficulties. The word "glory" means "rejoice." No
unbeliever can do this, but the believer's whole outlook is changed
because of his relationship with Christ. A true Christian can look
tribulation in the face and say, "I thank God for this difficulty; I
rejoice in it."

Notice that Romans 5:3 does not say we rejoice in spite of tribulations;
rather, it says we rejoice in tribulations. This is sometimes an
extremely difficult thing to learn. Have you learned it? If not, you are
missing one of the greatest blessings that God has in store for you. You
can rejoice and thank God even for the tribulation you are passing
through.

Most believers are familiar with Romans 8:28, which emphasizes that God
is working all things together for our good and His glory. God is using
everything--whether we would call it tribulation or not--in order to
mold us into the image of His Son (v. 29). And it takes difficulties to
make us like Christ. In order for us to have the qualities of Christ, we
need to pass through difficulties. They teach us valuable lessons in the
Christian school of experience.

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In
the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have
overcome the world" (John 16:33).

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/theodore-epp/triumph-in-tribulation/
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