Page 49 - The Gate and the Way

The Christian Life as Tragedy

You are probably familiar with the genre of writing known as tragedy. Some famous
examples of this form of writing are William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and
Macbeth. One definition for the writing form known as Tragedy is, “any literary
composition, as a novel, dealing with a somber theme carried to a tragic conclusion.”
The life of a Christian disciple is aptly described by these words, but only insofar as
it relates to our experiences on this earth. What most eyes fail to see, even Christian eyes,
is that when the final curtain closes on this earthly life, there opens an entirely new curtain
into realms of life in the Spirit. This present life is only the precursor to much greater things
to come.
The shortsightedness, unbelief, and carnal desires of many Christians lead them to
view this life as the main event, if not the only event. Although a great many Christians
speak of life after death, heaven, and ages to come, they do not actually put any stock in
such notions. They live as if there is no tomorrow, as if this present life is all there is. Having
such a mindset, they are very much intent on enjoying their good things now. I have shared
previously the plethora of books put out by a myriad of Christian authors that promote the
pursuit of worldly success, pleasure and prosperity.
One very evident fact that stands out as I contemplate the prosperity message is that
it is advocating something very different than a life of tragedy and suffering. No doubt,
many would question whether it is appropriate to describe the Christian life as tragedy. The
Bible reveals that such a description is very fitting. The apostle Paul stated:

I Corinthians 15:19
If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.

Paul’s statement is easily understood. Paul knew that Christ’s invitation was to “come
and suffer.” There is a cross for every disciple who would follow in the steps of Christ.

I Peter 2:21
For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving
you an example for you to follow in His steps...

The life of Christ is given to the church as a pattern of all who would follow Him. The
life of Yahshua was described in the following manner:

Isaiah 53:3
He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and well acquainted with
grief; And like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not
esteem Him.

From a temporal viewpoint, the life of Christ was a tragedy. Yahshua had formerly
existed in the likeness of God, and shared in Yahweh’s glory. Yet He emptied Himself and
took on the form of a bondservant. His life had been scripted for Him before He ever came
to earth. This fact is quite easily defended by the myriad of prophecies that were spoken
hundreds of years before His birth.
Yahweh had foreordained everything that was to occur in the life of His Son. The story