Verses 8-10 "So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me His prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life--not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immmortality to light through the gospel."
These long sentences are an encouragement to suffer.
Not to suffer for just anything, but the greatest thing! The gospel, which is partially explained in this passage. God has saved us through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, having planned from the beginning the grace He has apportioned for each of us as He calls us to true life and holiness as part of His purposes for us.
Suffering for the gospel of life and salvation, not because of anything we have done, but what He has done for us.
Verse 11 of chapter 2. "Here is a trustworthy saying: If we die with him, we will also live with him;"
This death is not a death physically. This death is not dying in a war on unbelievers 'for the gospel'. This is not a cult-ish dying together now so we can be with God in life tomorrow.
This death is suffering. This death is choosing God over the things in the world that offer some breif pleasures. This death is a death to bring true life and satisfaction in God by forsaking the idols we love so much.
This death is following God wherever He calls us, at whatever time, in whatever place, at whatever personal cost, knowing that He has a plan and purpose for us that is greater than our own comfort in this moment.
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