TGC Podcast

Lessons on Suffering from the Puritans

Oct 17, 2025
In this engaging talk, Ligon Duncan, Chancellor at Reformed Theological Seminary, shares deep insights from the Puritans on the nature of suffering. He discusses how suffering serves as divine discipline and refines one's faith. Ligon emphasizes that trials can foster perseverance and provide a sense of fellowship with Christ. He also highlights that suffering can lead to glory and a greater dependence on God, while ultimately serving as a powerful witness to others. Recommended Puritan texts further illuminate these profound themes.
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ANECDOTE

Example: Johnny Erickson Tada's Witness

  • Ligon Duncan points listeners to Johnny Erickson Tada as a model for suffering well in chronic pain.
  • He describes her conversation as glowing with Christ despite long-term hardship.
INSIGHT

Suffering As Fatherly Discipline

  • The Puritans see suffering as divine discipline from a loving Father, not meaningless pain.
  • Viewing trials as fatherly correction reorients suffering toward growth and hope.
INSIGHT

Affliction Refines Faith

  • Puritans taught that affliction refines faith like fire refines gold for greater purity.
  • Suffering's aim is refinement, not destruction, to increase trust and spiritual worth.
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