2 Corinthians 6:4-5; In Afflictions, In Necessities, In Distresses

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2 Corinthians 6:4-5 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

The Apostle Paul revealed that in the gospel work, he experienced afflictions. This word means literally pressure, pressing together, of suffering brought on by outward circumstances affliction, oppression, trouble [Friberg]. Indeed, he articulated well this testing of his faith that brought the spiritual fruit of patience in his heart – Romans 5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience.

Barnes observed well concerning the word “necessities” – “This is a stronger term than afflictions and denotes the distress which arose from want. He everywhere endured adversity. It denotes unavoidable distress and calamity.”

And “distresses” literally means “narrowness, tight or narrow place”; figuratively, as the restrictiveness and pressures brought on by inner or outer problems distress, difficulty, trouble [Friberg], dire calamity, extreme affliction [Thayer]. We notice the escalating anguish that came upon him in the course of the gospel work. He was able to handle it because he kept up in his communion with God through prayer – Acts 18:9-10 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: 10 For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city. 

Jesus’ encouragement to His servants suffering persecution to rejoice – Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Such joy comes from God and a good conscience. Amen.