94. Christians are to be exhorted that they be diligent in following Christ, their Head, through penalties, deaths, and hell;
95. And thus be confident of entering into heaven rather through many tribulations, than through the assurance of peace.
--Martin Luther's 95 Thesis
"When they [Paul and Barnabus] had preached the Gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God." (Acts 14:21-22)
"I [Jesus the Messiah] have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
Press on, my friends!
"A debtor to mercy alone, of covenant mercy I sing.../...more happy, but not more secure the glorified spirits in Heaven..." ("A Debtor to Mercy Alone" by Augustus Toplady, vv 1 & 4)
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