This is a print on demand book and is therefore non- returnable.
This compelling study by J. Christian Beker provides a moving, triumphant answer to one of life’s greatest mysteries the presence of suffering in God’s world. Now an established classic in the discussion of the problem of evil, Suffering and Hope plumbs the Old Testament’s response to earthly pain as well as Paul’s own dealings with “redemptive suffering.” Beker seeks to understand how the Bible’s view of suffering relates to our present experience of suffering and to the Christian hope for the future of creation. His concern is with the quality and character of both suffering and hope in a world where the question of suffering is inescapable. This powerful new edition features a foreword by Ben C. Ollenburger that describes the story behind the book the dehumanizing conditions Beker endured as a slave laborer during the Nazi occupation of The Netherlands and the ways in which they helped shape the particular poignancy of his view of suffering. Readers will be moved both by Beker’s personal transparency and by his biblical vision of “hopeful suffering” the apocalyptic trust in God’s eventual victory over the power of death that poisons his creation.
Suffering and Hope: Find Meaning in Pain and Embrace Apocalyptic Trust Confronting the profound mystery of suffering, J. Christiaan Beker's "Suffering and Hope: The Biblical Vision and the Human Predicament," now in its second edition, offers a powerful and ultimately hopeful response to one of life's most challenging questions: How can suffering exist in a world supposedly governed by a benevolent God? This book isn't just a theological treatise; it's a deeply personal and biblically grounded exploration born from Beker's own experiences with hardship. Beker, a renowned New Testament scholar, doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of pain and loss. Instead, he delves into the Old Testament's grappling with earthly suffering and Paul's concept of "redemptive suffering," seeking to bridge the gap between biblical perspectives and our contemporary experiences of pain. He masterfully examines how the Bibles complex portrayal of suffering intertwines with the Christian hope for the future transformation of creation. His core concern centers on the quality and character of both suffering and hope in a world where the question of suffering is ever-present and inescapable. This book distinguishes itself by its insightful exploration of apocalyptic theology. Beker demonstrates how an apocalyptic worldview, focused on Gods ultimate victory over death and evil, provides a framework for understanding and enduring suffering with hope. He doesnt offer easy answers or simplistic solutions but instead invites readers to embrace a "hopeful suffering" a trust in God's eventual triumph that empowers them to face even the darkest circumstances. Bekers perspective encourages the reader to wrestle with the ambiguities of faith and to find strength in the conviction that suffering, though real, does not have the final word. This new edition, published by Wm. B. Eerdmans, is significantly enhanced by a foreword from Ben C. Ollenburger. Ollenburger provides invaluable context by revealing the harrowing story behind the book. He unveils the dehumanizing conditions Beker endured as a slave laborer during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. This firsthand experience of profound suffering profoundly shaped Beker's perspective and lent a unique poignancy to his theological reflections. Understanding Beker's personal history allows readers to appreciate the depth of his insights and the authenticity of his message. Knowing the crucible in which "Suffering and Hope" was forged adds immeasurably to its power and relevance. "Suffering and Hope" is more than just an academic work; its a compassionate and deeply moving exploration of the human condition. It is a book for anyone who has wrestled with the problem of suffering, offering a biblically sound and personally relevant path toward understanding and hope. Readers will be struck by Beker's intellectual rigor, his personal transparency, and his unwavering belief in the ultimate triumph of God's love. Whether you are a student of theology, a pastor, or simply someone seeking solace in the face of adversity, "Suffering and Hope" provides a powerful and enduring message of comfort and hope. This book challenges readers to confront the reality of suffering with honesty and courage and to embrace the promise of a future where pain and sorrow will be no more. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of faith.
