What is the purpose of suffering in Orthodox Christianity? Why does God allow suffering? Why do good people suffer? Is there actually a purpose for the pain?
In this episode, we explore the Orthodox Christian understanding of suffering as one of the primary ways God transforms us into His likeness.
We'll read through Scripture together and examine what Christ, the Apostles, and the early Church teach about trials, suffering, healing, and hope. We'll also discuss why modern culture often misunderstands suffering, my thoughts on therapy through an Orthodox lens, and how embracing hardship can actually deepen our communion with God.
Whether you're new to Orthodoxy, exploring Christianity, or walking through a difficult season, I hope this conversation encourages you.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
⏳ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00-00:54 intro
00:54-3:43 orthodox view on suffering
3:43-6:16 my beef with therapy
6:16-9:18 let’s read scripture together
9:18-12:00 Matthew 5:1-12 The Beatitudes
12:00-13:18 Matthew 16:24 Jesus’ Work: His Passion & Resurrection
13:18-15:07 Matthew 26:26 Institution of the Eucharist
15:07-17:45 Matthew 27:46 The Death of Jesus
17:45-20:09 Mark 5:25-29 The Woman with the flow of blood
20:09-23:15 John 9:1-3 The Man Born Blind Sees
23:15-24:56 Acts 5:41 Apostolic Evangelism
24:56-26:08 Orthodox Women’s Book Club
26:08-29:08 Romans 8:18-24 The Spirit Assists Us Through Suffering
29:08-33:54 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 Sharing Suffering, Sharing Comfort
33:54-35:55 Philippians 1:29
35:55-37:25 James 1:2 The Purpose of Trials
37:25-39:05 1 Peter 1:6 Tested for Genuine Faith
39:05-41:34 1 Peter 4:12 Prepare for the End by Suffering
41:34-42:54 Wounded by Love Book Club
42:54-44:28 What’s next