He who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin.
Suffering in Christ: When we closely look at these Scriptures dealing with suffering we can see in 2 Timothy, that suffering can be experienced simply because of living our Godly beliefs in sincerity. Consider this: for others to disagree with our beliefs, they have to hear it before they can consider it, to oppose it. So that in itself is proof to me that the children of God are not to keep their beliefs hidden within the four walls of their chosen corporate church. Scriptures also show that the apostle Paul demonstrated his faith openly. He showed how his faith was in the anointing of Christ, how God revealed to him many things through His Holy Spirit. We are told to have this same mind. Today there are many religions but not many trust and live by the revelations of the Holy Spirit, for many place their trust in the teaching and writing of man. For those that trust in this anointing of Christ, they are normally ousted by most of the doctrines of today, experiencing rejection possibly similar to what the early apostles experienced. Some of the children of God, even today have experienced pursecution, as wickedness is rapidly increasing.
2 Timothy 3:12. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
Romans 8:16. The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17. and if children, then heirs heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.
Philippians 1:29. For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30. having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me.
1 Peter 4:1. Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2. that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
Trials that Fall upon God's Children Being a child of God is not based upon one’s acceptance amongst those that are religious but one’s relationship with God. Satan is against that divine relationship. Satan does not want anyone to experience a true love for God that is experienced within that relationship, therefore he is going to come up with alternative focuses, redirecting away any attention that could be given to the divine relationship that can be held through Christ. In this process, those in Christ are going to go through some serious trials and their faith is going to be tested, many times.
Sometimes we fail, and then we are given another opportunity. Thank God that He is faithful for forgive and always gives another chance to those that are willing to accept it.
James 1:2. My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3. knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
1 Peter 1:6. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7. that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,
1 Peter 4:12. Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13. but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
1 Peter 4:19. Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.