The Theology of Suffering

In contemporary world, the emphasis of the gospel seems to be focused more on wealth and health. Some Christians are made to believe that ill health and poverty are consequences of sin. The poor, the sick and those going through distressing circumstances are seen as those under the retributive justice of God.The book argues that suffering is not always a consequence of retributive justice. Citing Job, Jesus and Paul, the author posits that suffering is in three forms namely: examplary, vicarious and retributive. The three major personalities referenced suffered not due to sin but for righteousness and on behalf of sinners. Biblical theology does not insulate or exempt the righteous from suffering as suffering is part of the Christian race. As long as Christians are in the world, they are bound to pass through certain distressing circumstances as God did not promise us freedom from suffering but that in our suffering, he will always be with us.