God's Appointment of Future Glory and of Present Affliction

Saving faith continues v23.
Perseverence a feature of true saving faith - defection from the faith proves one to have never been truly in the faith - active perseverence a duty.

Saving faith rests upon revealed truth.
'continuance in the faith' - Adherence to the revealed truths of the gospel, a joyous expectation of that yet to be revealed and the open declaration of the truth to all.

Present suffering in serving Christ and his body v24.
The apostle rejoiced in his sufferings for Christ which served the interests of the church - Christ's accomplished redemption applied, ministers' sufferings and the church's progress - the example of Joseph - Love to Christ and his people bound together.