Why did Paul suffer these things according to Les?
Paul suffered because Satan opposed the gospel going to the Gentiles. His chief opposition was Jews, both believing and those steeped in Judaism, but also a satanic power from every direction. Satan did not want the gospel reaching the Gentile world, so Paul endured suffering for these things.
Les explains that Paul's suffering had two fronts: his chief opposition was the Jew, including believing Jews and those still steeped in Judaism, but it was not the Jew alone. A satanic power came from every direction because Satan did not want the gospel going to the Gentile world. Satan had tolerated it going to Israel in the Old Testament, but the gospel to the masses of Gentiles was the last thing he wanted. So Paul says he suffered for these things, yet he was not ashamed, for he knew whom he had believed. Despite all his difficulties, sickness, sorrow, and suffering, he never once doubted the God he served.
Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.
For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
More Questions
Why was Paul not ashamed despite all he suffered?
Paul was not ashamed in spite of all his sufferings because he knew whom he had believed.