Musing on “Victory Theology”
“Victory theology” falsely claims that “all things can be overcome now in this life.” Yet, Paul said that some things were “beyond his ability to endure” (2 Cor. 1:8).
Luther negatively called victory theology “a theology of glory” as opposed to a “theology of the cross.”
Victory theology often is followed with a phrase like, There are no victims, just victors in Christ.” Tell that to Tamar. Sin creates victims. Abuse creates victims.
Another term, this one well-meaning, can also follow this victory theology: “Suffer well.” Sadly, ‘suffer well” typically ends up meaning, “Don’t feel; don’t lament; just get on with it; don’t worry, be happy.”
Victory theology is a false emotional health and wealth gospel that promises for this life what Jesus only promised for the next life. Victory theology is a false emotional/situational prosperity gospel. (For more about this false emotional health and wealth gospel, see: 7 Biblical Truths Countering the False Gospel of “Emotional Health & Wealth.”)
Can we find Christ’s peace in the midst of external suffering and in the midst of inner turmoil? Yes. Can we find hope in the midst of grief? Yes. But none of that means no inner turmoil, no grief, no pain. The promise of no more tears, suffering, and crying is for heaven.
Perhaps, as the movie says, “There’s no crying in softball!” However, Scriptures say, “There is crying now, lament now, pain now, suffering now, being abused now, being a victim now.”
Jesus, the Man of Sorrows, is acquainted with grief—His grief, and your grief. The Father of compassion and God of all comfort, comforts us—not removing our pain, not abolishing our sorrow, but providing His loving care in the midst of our suffering.
