I have never thought that a Christian would be free of suffering, umfundisi. For our Lord suffered. And I come to believe that he suffered, not to save us from suffering, but to teach us how to bear suffering. For he knew that there is no life without suffering.
The quote reflects the author's belief that suffering is an intrinsic part of the human experience, including for Christians. It suggests that even Jesus, a central figure in Christianity, endured suffering, which indicates that pain and hardship are universal challenges that cannot be avoided.
Moreover, the author posits that Jesus' suffering serves a purpose; rather than preventing suffering, it teaches individuals how to cope with it. This perspective highlights the importance of resilience and understanding in the face of life's inevitable difficulties, indicating that suffering can lead to personal growth and deeper compassion.