Triumph in Tribulation
As believers, we can rejoice in tribulation because God is working all things together for our good and His glory.
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.
Text
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).
Sermon Outline
- The Christian's Outlook on Tribulation
- Rejoicing in Tribulation
- God is working all things together for our good and His glory
- Romans 8:28 emphasizes God's sovereignty in our lives
- Difficulties are used to mold us into the image of Christ
Key Quotes
“I thank God for this difficulty; I rejoice in it.” — Theodore Epp
“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.” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- Practice rejoicing in tribulation by focusing on your relationship with Christ and how He is working in your life.
- Trust in Jesus and His promises to find peace in the midst of difficulty.
- Use your experiences, including difficulties, as opportunities to learn valuable lessons and become more like Christ.