Tribulation, Perseverance, Character, and Hope Romans 5:1-5

Tribulation The Reality of Tribulation 2 Timothy 3:12 – Christians will suffer. John 15:18-20 – Jesus suffered, so His disciples will suffer. 1 Thessalonians 3:1-4 – We were appointed to suffering.

Tribulation The Christian Perspective on Tribulation Romans 5:3 – Rejoice! Because Christ has overcome – John 16:33; 1 John 5:4-5 Because it is a blessing – Matthew 5:10-12 Because we have fellowship with Christ – Philippians 3:7, 10; 1 Peter 4:12-13 Because of the growth it causes – James 1:2-3; Hebrews 12:11

Perseverance The Correct Response to Tribulation The tendency is to want to quit. Hebrews 10:32-39 – to quit is to fall from grace. Job 1:11; 2:4-5, 9-10 – Satan wants us to quit. We are to bravely persevere! – Acts 20:22-24; 21:4, 10-13

Perseverance The Increasing Nature of Perseverance James 1:2-4 – We are to let patience have its perfect work. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 – As we turn to God in times of weakness, and we persevere, we are made strong.

Character The Purpose of Tribulation 1 Peter 1:6-9 – Tribulation is a test of faith. James 1:12; Acts 14:22 – The road to glory is paved with trials and tribulations. “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small” (Proverbs 24:10).

Character The Result of Perseverance Character – dokimē; test (abstractly or concretely); by implication, trustiness. (Strong) Cf. Philippians 2:22 – “proven character” Character is also strengthened in the perseverance of tribulation – Hebrews 12:7, 10-13

Hope The Hope of the Faithful The Assurance of Hope 1 Peter 1:3-5 – The Christian is given a living hope of a wonderful inheritance. The Assurance of Hope Romans 5:5 – It does not disappoint. Hebrews 6:11-12 – Assurance of Hope Because of the Holy Spirit – Ephesians 1:13-14; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:16-18

Tribulation, Perseverance, Character, and Hope Romans 5:1-5