-Bearing the cross brings affliction and comfort (1:3-4)
-God is the God of all comfort!
-Suffering with Christ benefits more than self (1:5-7)
-Our suffering can and should benefit others (Rom. 12:4-5).

Application: (1) What are the advantages and disadvantages of suffering? (2) How can difficulties in life benefit others? (3) How did Paul's sufferings help in his relationship with the Corinthians?