Becoming a Christian does not solve all of our problems. In a world hostile to Jesus, it may create a whole set of new ones. Too long we have marketed Christianity as something that will solve all of your problems. It certainly solves the problem of sin and alienation from God. Sufferings, hardships, and persecution are the lot of those who follow Messiah. His is not the way of ease, but it is the best way.
They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. Acts 14:21-22 (NIV)
