How can we avoid causing "one of these little ones" to stumble today? Grasping the Gravity of Jesus’ Words “But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6) • The picture is stark: a giant millstone, certain death, total hopelessness. • Jesus is underscoring that leading a vulnerable believer into sin is unimaginably serious. Identifying “These Little Ones” • Children—those whose faith and understanding are developing (cf. Matthew 18:3–5). • Humble disciples—believers who rely on Christ with child-like trust (cf. Matthew 18:4). • Anyone spiritually impressionable: new converts, youth, seekers, or those wounded by past sin. Examining Our Own Lives First • Romans 14:13—“make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother”. • Prayerfully ask: “Does my attitude, habit, or liberty trip someone up?” • Invite accountability; let faithful friends point out blind spots (Proverbs 27:6). Living as a Consistent Example • 1 Timothy 4:12—“set an example for the believers in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.” • Integrity matters when unseen: private sins often surface publicly and shatter younger faith. • Repent quickly and openly when you fail; model real repentance. Guarding Our Words • Ephesians 4:29—“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths.” • Dismissive jokes, gossip, or harsh criticism can disillusion tender hearts. • Speak grace, truth, and encouragement that build up. Teaching Clear, Sound Doctrine • Acts 20:27—do not shrink from declaring “the whole purpose of God.” • Misrepresenting Scripture or watering it down can send the immature into error. • Regularly open the Bible together; let Scripture, not opinion, be final. Creating Safe, Holy Environments • Mark 9:42 parallels Matthew 18:6, emphasizing protection. • Safeguard physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being: – Screen volunteers who work with children or youth. – Establish transparent policies for counseling and mentoring. – Cultivate a church culture where sin is confessed and addressed, not hidden. Willingly Limiting Personal Freedom • 1 Corinthians 8:9—“Be careful that your freedom does not become a stumbling block.” • If a liberty (food, drink, entertainment choice) confuses or tempts a younger believer, lovingly lay it aside. • The eternal good of a soul outweighs momentary preference. Actively Building Up “Little Ones” • Hebrews 10:24—spur one another toward love and good deeds. • Regular, intentional discipleship: Bible reading plans, mentoring pairs, service projects together. • Celebrate their steps of obedience; correct gently when they fall (Galatians 6:1). Leveraging Digital Spaces Wisely • Online posts, reels, and comments travel far. Ask: “Would this prompt doubt, envy, or sin in a young believer?” • Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness more than personal achievements. • Filter what you consume; if it desensitizes you, it can derail someone following your lead. Keeping Eternity in View • 1 Corinthians 3:13—each one’s work will be tested by fire. • Value souls over success, programs, or reputation. • Remember Jesus’ millstone picture every time you influence a child, teach a class, post online, or exercise freedom. Putting It All Together • Humble yourself daily under God’s Word. • Walk transparently in repentance and faith. • Speak grace, teach truth, protect the vulnerable, and gladly sacrifice liberty for another’s growth. Living this way safeguards “these little ones” from stumbling and points them—and us—straight to Christ. |
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