Decoder Terminal
AFFLICTIONS OF CHRIST
MISSION-ASSOCIATED SUFFERING — OPERATIONAL COST SHARING
PATTERNSpecs
greek
ta hysterēmata tōn thlipseōn tou Christou — the lacking things of the afflictions of Christ
meaning
Participation in mission-associated suffering
purpose
For the body's sake — building the church through gospel advance
not meaning
Supplement to atonement (which is complete)
Intelligence Brief
This is one of Paul's most misunderstood phrases. He is NOT saying Christ's atonement was incomplete and needs human supplement. The cross is finished (John 19:30). Rather, Paul distinguishes between Christ's redemptive suffering (complete, unrepeatable, sufficient) and Christ's mission-associated suffering (ongoing, shared by His body). The church continues Christ's work in the world and therefore shares His opposition. Paul's imprisonment, beatings, and hardships are 'for the body's sake' — they advance the gospel that builds the church. He 'fills up what is lacking' not in atonement but in the quota of suffering the church must endure before the mission is complete.
Scripture References