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Our Common Struggles: Affliction, Confusion, Persecution

All servants of Christ face four common struggles. Really, they’re consequences. In 2 Corinthians 4:8–9 we read them . . .

Afflicted, perplexed, persecuted, struck down.

The first word, translated “afflicted,” comes from a Greek term that suggests the idea of pressure. This is stress brought on by difficult circumstances or by antagonistic people.

In other words, when servants are “afflicted,” they feel under pressure, harassed, and oppressed. The Greek verb, thlibo, is a strong term, meaning at times “to treat with hostility.”

Paul goes on to write there are times when servants of God become “perplexed.” Interestingly, the combination of Greek terms that comprise the original word means “without a way.”

It is a picture of confusion—not knowing where or to whom to turn for help. Included in the meaning of this word would be such perplexing predicaments as being without necessary resources, feeling embarrassed, and in doubt so far as procedure is concerned.

We have the phrase, “at a loss” which adequately describes that uncertain feeling. There is more.

Originally, the term persecution meant “to run after, pursue.” It’s the idea of being chased, having others “on our case,” we would say. It is an active, aggressive word conveying everything from being intimidated to being assaulted, actually attacked.

Servants will suffer persecution. You may recall Paul’s words, written to Timothy: “Indeed, all who desire to live in a godly way in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12 NASB).

Persecution is one of those painful consequences, along with affliction and confusion.

Finally, he names one more consequence—struck down. It’s the idea of being thrown down, shoved aside, or cast off. This explains why J. B. Phillips paraphrases it, “we may be knocked down.”

Amazing thing! Even though we may faithfully and consistently do our job, help and serve and give to others, we can expect, on occasion, to be thrown aside and rejected . . . knocked down. Let’s not be caught off guard.