Suffering and persecution in Christianity

In Christianity, suffering and persecution refer to the hardships and opposition believers may face because of their faith. Suffering can result from personal trials or the struggles of living according to Christian teachings, while persecution involves externally imposed hostility or discrimination, often because of religious beliefs. Christians view suffering as a way to share in Jesus Christ’s own suffering, fostering spiritual growth and reliance on God's grace. Persecution, though challenging, is seen as a test of faith that can strengthen one’s commitment and demonstrate unwavering trust in God, echoing the experiences of early Christians and many faithful followers today.