“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him.” (Romans 8:16-17)
Jesus’ suffering was unique. His sacrifice was sufficient once and for all to pay the debt of all humanity. Therefore, it is neither necessary, nor even possible, for anyone else to repeat that. Nevertheless, the Bible states in several places that believers share in Christ’s suffering. What does this mean?
Before Jesus was arrested, He warned His followers that they would not have an easy time in the world. Jesus’ actions and message provoked fierce opposition, and the same would apply to His followers. Jesus was right. The first Christians were immediately persecuted for their faith. Many of them were brutally murdered. Others had to flee from their homes. This is still happening in many places around the world today. Those who want to belong to Jesus take great risks. Those who speak about Him put their lives in danger.
Paul was an expert in this area through personal experience. He was often arrested, mistreated, and was imprisoned multiple times. It is likely that he was killed for his faith in Rome. (This is not stated in the Bible but is known from other historical sources.) And yet… Paul was gladly willing to endure all of this so that others could come to know Jesus Christ too and be saved through Him (see 2 Timothy 2:9-10).
What does (sharing) your faith cost you? How much would you be willing to suffer for it?