But because you are partakers of Christ's sufferings, rejoice; that at the revelation of his glory also you may rejoice with exceeding joy.
Christians are co-participants with the sufferings Christ endured while upon the earth. During His personal ministry, the Lord endured the contradiction of sinners against Himself. When His people are persecuted for His cause, they are partakers of the "afflictions of Christ" (Colossians 1:24).