Theology of Suffering and Hope: A Christological Perspective

Abstract

This article examines the theological significance of suffering and hope in the context of Christ’s passion, drawing on Christian theology to explore the experience of human suffering in light of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Suffering remains a major existential problem for human beings and a problem that contradicts particular human faith in the loving and almighty God. The article argues, by reference to key biblical texts, particularly the Passion narratives and Pauline epistles, combined with the theological reflections of Jürgen Moltmann, Thomas F. Torrance, and Pope John Paul II, that Christ’s suffering is not just a historical event, but rather is a richer and deeper revelation or disclosure of divine solidarity with human suffering. The redemptive nature of Jesus’ suffering provides a healing and hopeful framework for understanding affliction, where believers are called to endure and find meaning, healing, and hope. Pastoral theology, trauma studies, and ideas from psychology and ethics are also considered in understanding how to feel suffering in the present, whether that be war, illness, or social injustice. The article concludes that a Christological theology of suffering is a hope in pain, not for life without pain, but in the life of suffering with the risen Christ who walks with human beings through their most searing trials.