The Problem of Pain as Gain

[spectrumbot]

Departing from a recent series of single biblical book explorations, now the Adult Bible Study Guide turns topical, focusing on the meaning of suffering. In the language of “old-time religion,” these bad experiences can be understood as the trials and tribulations that build character and sanctify a person. The lesson states, “This week’s lesson highlights several types of crucibles: crucibles generated by Satan, crucibles generated by our sin, crucibles used by God to purify us and form our character, and crucibles of maturity.”

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This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at http://spectrummagazine.org/node/11878

[adventistgrump]

The Bible does not teach “pain as gain.” It is the devil and the enemies of Christ who preach this message of confusion.

Philippians 1:21

For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.

Philippians 3:7

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

Timothy-1 6:5

Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.