Hope in Suffering: Studies in Romans 5:3-5 Part I

Hope in Suffering Part 1

Romans 5:3-5

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Purpose: There are three truths we need to know in order that we might not be crushed during suffering in our lives so that we would have hope in our suffering.

1. We need to know that we all will face tribulations (v.3a)
2. We need to know that God is working within us (v.3b-4)
3. We need to know that God loves us greatly (v.5) 

Let us begin with the first point:

1. We need to know that we all will face tribulations (3a)
   1. Point: Sometimes knowing that we will face tribulation makes a difference whether we are going to be with or without hope.
   2. Passage: And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations,
   3. Proof
      1. Look at the phrase “our tribulations.”
      2. What does the word tribulation mean?
         1. It is a general term for pressures and troubles (Schreiner, 255).
         2. It refers to more pressure that is external (Moo, 302).
      3. Notice it is said “our,” which should remind Christians that we will have trials and tribulation in this life as a Christian.
      4. The word “tribulations” is also plural to indicate more than one instance of trouble we will have in life.
      5. The word “tribulations” appears two other times in the book of Romans specifically at Romans 8:35 and 12:12 which should reinforce to us the reality of difficulties faced in the Christian life (Schreiner, 255).
   4. Picture: Have you ever been surprised with cold water when you expected warm water? The cold is even more uncomfortable with the fact that you did not expect it.  Likewise it is true with our life if we do not know that we will face tribulation in our life as Christians.  Some people today think Christianity means that it’s a way of avoiding sickness and difficulties.  But that’s not what the Bible says.  Knowing we will face tribulations in our lives is half the battle.
   5. Practice
      1. For those who are young and might not have much tribulation:
         1. Know that the good times would not last forever.
         2. Be thankful for all your blessings.
         3. Also be prepared in your mind to realize there will tribulations to come.
      2. All of us needs to be prepared in our minds to expect tribulations.
      3. Remember that if one denies the reality we will face tribulation it would come down harder and also puts us in a hopeless situation.
      4. Knowing that we will face tribulation and others also go through tribulations should make us gentler with people and have more empathy.