What does the Bible say about human suffering?

For those seeking answers from a faith perspective, the Bible offers a complex, nuanced view of why suffering exists, how individuals might respond, and what hope it holds for the future. This post explores what the Bible says about human suffering, drawing from both the Old and New Testaments.

The Origins of Suffering: A Broken World

The Bible begins by describing a world created as good (Genesis 1:31). However, the entry of sin through human disobedience (Genesis 3) introduces suffering, pain, and death. The book of Romans echoes this, declaring, “Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men” (Romans 5:12). This suggests that suffering is not part of God’s original design but a consequence of humanity’s separation from God.

Suffering in the Old Testament

Many stories in the Old Testament reflect the theme of suffering. Job is perhaps the most well-known example: a righteous man who endures unimaginable loss and pain. Despite his friends’ insistence that suffering must be a punishment for wrongdoing, God ultimately rebukes this oversimplification and reveals that suffering is not always a direct result of personal sin (Job 42:7). The Psalms, too, are filled with cries of anguish, questions, and appeals for deliverance, reflecting the honest emotional struggles of believers.

Suffering as Discipline and Growth

The Bible sometimes frames suffering as a means of discipline or refinement. Hebrews 12:6 states, “The Lord disciplines the one he loves.” Similarly, in the Old Testament, the suffering of Israel is sometimes depicted as corrective, intended to bring the people back to faithfulness (Deuteronomy 8:5, Isaiah 48:10). Yet, this does not mean all suffering is discipline. The biblical narrative is careful to show that suffering can have multiple purposes or causes, many of which are beyond human understanding.

Jesus and Suffering

Central to the Christian faith is the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. The Gospels present Jesus as one who not only acknowledges human suffering but enters into it. Isaiah 53:3 prophetically calls him “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” Jesus’ suffering is not just an example of enduring hardship but is portrayed as redemptive—bearing the consequences of sin for humanity (1 Peter 2:24). His resurrection offers hope that suffering and death do not have the final word.

Suffering in the New Testament Church

The early Christians faced persecution, hardship, and loss. The New Testament encourages believers to view suffering as an opportunity for spiritual growth. Romans 5:3-4 teaches that “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Paul, who suffered greatly, writes that suffering can deepen reliance on God and foster compassion for others (2 Corinthians 1:3-7).

Hope Amid Suffering

While the Bible acknowledges suffering as a reality, it also promises future restoration. Revelations 21:4 envisions a time when God “will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” This ultimate hope shapes the way believers endure present hardship.

Conclusion

The Bible does not offer a single, simplistic answer to the problem of suffering. Instead, it presents suffering as a complex reality that is part of the human condition since the fall, but also as something God can use for growth, compassion, and ultimately redemption. Through Jesus, believers are invited to find hope and meaning even amid the deepest pain, looking forward to a future where suffering will be no more.