Phil. i. 29. Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.
THE chief obstacles to a holy and consistent con- duct arise perhaps from within, from the evil propen- sities of our own hearts. But very serious difficulties are occasioned by the frowns and menaces of an un- godly world. We are naturally afraid of suffering ; and are easily deterred from those things which would subject us to heavy trials. But if we considered the
cross as a badge of honour, as a source of good, and as a high favour conferred upon us by God himself, we should feel less anxious to avoid it, and be more emboldened to walk as becometh the Gospel of Christ. It is by this view of sufferings, that the Apostle encourages the Philippians to hold fast their profession without wavering. His expressions are singularly bold and striking : they shew us,
I. That suffering for Christ's sake, is a favour con
ferred on us by God himself —
Believers are called to suffer for Christ's sake —
[In addition to the sufferings which are common to others, the believer is called to endure contempt, and reproach, and persecution, for the Gospel's sake. He is taught to expect them3 : and experience proves, that however amiable, or use- ful, or discreet he may be, he cannot avoid the odium attaching to true religion.]
But his sufferings are a gift from God himself —
[As far as respects his persecutors, his trials arise from a malignant effort of men and devils to obstruct the establish- ment of the Redeemer's kingdom : but as far as respects God, they are a special gift from him. As the faith, on account of which he suffers, is given him, so also are the sufferings them- selves, together with the ability to endure them patiently. They are bestowed purely for Christ's sakeb; and are ap- pointed in number, weight, and duration, so as to conduce most effectually to his eternal welfare.]
We may observe further concerning his cross,
II. That it is a richer gift than even faith itself —
Faith is certainly an inestimable gift ; yet the gift of suffering for Christ's sake is far greater —
1. It is a higher privilege in itself — [In believing, we receive from God all the blessings which we stand in need of: but in suffering, we give to God : we give our name, our property, our liberty, our life, to be disposed of in any way which may tend most to his glory. "What an honour is this, for a poor creature, a worm of the earth, to
a Matt. v. 10—12. 1 Cor. iv. 18. 2 Tim. iii. 12.
b We may conceive Christ soliciting the greatest of all favours on behalf of a beloved disciple ; and, on being desired by his Father to specify it, replying, " Father, I ask that he may have the honour of suffering for me : " which the Father graciously condescends to grant.