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A Share of Afflictions Left for the Follower of Christ?

From: Questions and Answers on Scripture: From the Bible Treasury

Colossians 1:24 • 1 min. read • grade level: 8

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Question: In Colossians 1:24²⁴Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church: (Colossians 1:24) the apostle speaks of filling up “that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ for his body’s sake which is the church.” Taking these words literally do they not seem to imply that our Lord did not suffer His full share of afflictions, but left a part to be filled up by His servant and follower after Him? R.C.

Answer: We must distinguish between Christ’s sufferings in atonement, in which none can share, and His suffering for righteousness, where He is not alone. Matt. 20:22²²But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. (Matthew 20:22) gives the first, whilst the next verse reveals the latter. So Phil. 1:29²⁹For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; (Philippians 1:29), 1 Peter 4:13, 16¹³But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:13)
¹⁶Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. (1 Peter 4:16), speak of our part. See also “Bible Treasury,” Vol. VII. (1908), 208.

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