Wednesday 04 February 2009

Background

Earlier chapters of the letter to the Hebrews suggest that theoriginal readers were suffering for their faith. In today'spassage, specifically in verses 6-12, we have the writer'sexplanation of why they suffer. It begins with an appeal toScripture. The reference is to Proverbs3:11-12 and the suggested benefit of discipline andchastisement. It is based on the concept of the parent-childrelationship. This is a good example of a text which, when quotedout of context, is too easily misunderstood and then misused. Itrepresents the sort of passage which led to the Victorian view'spare the rod and spoil the child', and to the idea held by somethat to be a 'real' Christian one should seek out suffering. It'spretty frightening stuff. Not easy to read, especially if you arethe one suffering for your faith, then or now.

But before giving up on this passage, it is worth remembering thatthere are two sides to discipline. It can be about punishment andcorrection, but it can equally be about helping to form andeducate. Then, the understanding is that if and when people suffer,they should do all they can to interpret their experiencepositively. What strength can be drawn from what is an otherwisenegative experience? This is a really difficult challenge. In casethe Hebrews think too much is being asked of them, the writerpoints to Jesus' acceptance of the Cross. Most likely he has inmind our Lord's words, spoken in the Garden of Gethsemane, "Not mywill but yours be done" (Luke 22:42). Yes,he says, the going can be tough, but keep going and hold on.

The acceptance of such a disciplined approach to life's trials andtribulations makes use of the image of fatherhood. It is anunderstanding of fatherhood greatly influenced by the OldTestament. God is 'patriarchal' or fatherly in a very dominatingsort of way. Not all Scripture is easy to read. So, perhaps it isjust as well that verses 14 and 15 follow. Their tone is somewhatmore gentle. Were there divisions among the recipients of theletter? Were they falling out with one another? Well, they areoffered a challenge: pursue peace and holiness. It is in suchsimple challenges that the Bible so often stops us in our tracksand invites us to follow a way which has such potential forcreating a better world.

To Ponder

Have you ever had a bad or difficult experience?How did it affect you? Were you able to see anything positive inwhat happened? What about now, as you look back?

What part do you think suffering has to play inthe Christian life?