Download Printable Notes (open in browser)
Some common answers
• You did something to deserve it
• It is all fated by God
• It’s all illusion
• It’s all pointless
The biblical perspective
W
Sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned. Romans 5:12
For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. Romans 8:22
We have a broken
H
I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18
Creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. Romans 8:21
Y
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21
For further reading
Tim Keller, Reasons for God, Making Sense of God
Amy Orr-Ewing, Where is God in All the Suffering?
Philip Yancey, Disappointment with God
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Look back over the message notes and Bible verses from this past weekend. What point jumped out at you? How would you summarize the Bible’s answer to the question of suffering?
2. Read Romans 5:12, John 16:33 and Revelation 21:1-5. These verses remind us that we will have trouble in this life– but they also comfort us that eternity will not be like this. How does the principle that “we have a broken world, not a broken God” help you face the “whys” in life?
3. Read Romans 8:28. What is the promise in this verse? How is the cross itself an example of the power of God to turn tragedy into triumph? How have you seen God work through tough times in your own life? Read Romans 8:36-39. These verses clearly point out that nothing can separate us from God’s love. How does God’s constant love encourage you in the midst of suffering?
Join an Explore God small group! Go to tlc.org/smallgroups
LIFE AT TLC
TLC’S ANNUAL BEACH BAPTISM
10/8, 12:45pm, Seacliff Beach • Cheer on everyone being baptized and enjoy free lunch! tlc.org/baptism
IN THIS TOGETHER - YOUNG FAMILIES CONNECTION EVENT
10/15 12:15-2:15pm • Calling all TLC Young Families (with kids aged newborn - 5th grade)! Connect, play, eat (for FREE!), get encouragement and resources! We will have time with just parents, while the kids play together, to hear from Pastor René. RSVP tlc.org/youngfamilies Questions? adrian@tlc.org
BABY DEDICATIONS
10/15 & 16 • Child dedication is a great way for us as a church to celebrate our littlest TLCers, and is an important spiritual marker in the life of a child and their family. If interested in participting visit tlc.org/babydedication
TLC PRESENTS ‘SCREEN SANITY’
10/20 or 10/27 • Parents, don’t miss this opportunity to learn about digital health for you and your kids. It’s such an important topic that we’re offering two opportunities to attend this class! For parents of Pre-K through Middle School. RSVP and full details at tlc.org/youngfamilies Questions? adrian@tlc.org
ACTS OF KINDNESS
10/21-11/19 • Reach out and serve our community in all kinds of creative ways! There are projects for everyone, whether you jump in with your family, friend group or on your own. For ideas, contact our Outreach Director, robin@tlc.org. If you don’t have a group or your group wants to participate in one of 5 projects TLC is organizing, go to tlc.org/aok to sign up and see project details!
Need help? tlc.org/help
Need prayer? tlc.org/prayer
To give: tlc.org/give