Preacher and author Francis Chan explores the role of suffering in deepening one's relationship with God and the importance of surrendering to His will. He reflects on the desire to make a significant impact in the world and live a life that pleases God, while questioning the obsession with worldly success. He also shares a powerful story of missionaries abducted by the Taliban and challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives in light of their sacrifice.
Suffering is portrayed in Scripture as a means of fellowship with Jesus.
Genuine discipleship involves surrendering to God's will and prioritizing suffering for Christ.
Deep dives
The Desire for Suffering and Intimacy with Jesus
In this podcast episode, Francis Chan challenges listeners to view suffering as a means of fellowship with Jesus. He recalls a dream where he thought he was in the presence of God and emphasizes the desire to hear the words 'Well done, good and faithful servant' from God. Chan discusses the importance of being a follower of Jesus and being open to His will in the present moment. He highlights the need to prioritize hearing those words from God rather than focusing on personal achievements or positions.
The Fellowship of Suffering and Intimacy with Jesus
Chan references various biblical passages to emphasize the theme of suffering as a fellowship with Christ. He shares stories of missionaries in dangerous situations who experienced a deep closeness to Jesus, even in the face of challenges and potential death. Chan emphasizes the desire to experience the Holy Spirit during times of discomfort and danger rather than seeking God's presence only in comfortable settings. He encourages listeners to embrace suffering in order to draw closer to Jesus and know Him more intimately.
The Call to Surrender and Take Up the Cross
In this episode, the importance of surrendering to God's will and taking up the cross is discussed. Chan mentions a real-life example of missionaries who were abducted and killed, willingly surrendering their lives to Jesus. He prompts listeners to evaluate whether they truly have peace with God and are willing to follow His will, even if it means leaving comfort and security behind. Chan questions the focus on personal achievements and challenges listeners to genuinely desire to be transformed, to suffer for Christ, and to prioritize genuine discipleship.
“Things don’t make sense as believers if we’re not suffering.” In this classic message, Francis Chan exhorts all of us to see suffering the way that Scripture portrays it: a means of fellowship with Jesus like no other.