Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian faith, the concept of offense, particularly occasions of offense, is a significant concern. The Bible addresses the issue of causing others to stumble in their faith or moral conduct, emphasizing the importance of living in a way that does not lead others into sin or confusion.Scriptural Warnings Against Causing Offense The New Testament provides several admonitions against causing offense to others, especially to fellow believers. Jesus Himself warns against leading others into sin. In Matthew 18:6 , He states, "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." This severe warning underscores the gravity of causing spiritual harm to others, particularly those who are young or new in the faith. Similarly, in Luke 17:1-2 , Jesus says, "It is inevitable that stumbling blocks will come, but woe to the one through whom they come! It would be better for him to have a millstone hung around his neck and to be thrown into the sea than to cause one of these little ones to stumble." Here, Jesus acknowledges the reality of offenses but places a strong responsibility on individuals to avoid being the source of such stumbling blocks. Apostolic Teachings on Avoiding Offense The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of causing offense in his epistles. In Romans 14:13 , he advises, "Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way." Paul emphasizes the importance of being considerate of others' consciences and avoiding actions that might lead them into sin or doubt. In 1 Corinthians 8:9 , Paul further instructs, "Be careful, however, that your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak." This passage highlights the balance between Christian liberty and responsibility, urging believers to exercise their freedoms with sensitivity to the spiritual well-being of others. Practical Applications for Believers Believers are called to live in a manner that reflects Christ's love and consideration for others. This includes being mindful of how one's actions, words, and attitudes might impact others' faith journeys. In 1 Corinthians 10:32-33 , Paul writes, "Do not become a stumbling block, whether to Jews or Greeks or the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in all I do, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, so that they may be saved." The call to avoid causing offense extends beyond the immediate Christian community to interactions with non-believers as well. Christians are encouraged to be ambassadors of Christ, representing His teachings and character in all areas of life. Conclusion The biblical mandate to avoid causing offense is rooted in love and respect for others. By being mindful of their actions and their potential impact on others, believers can foster a community that supports spiritual growth and unity. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 10:32Give none offense, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 6:3 Library On Contrition On Confession The Heinous Sin of Profane Cursing and Swearing On the Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Commandments of the Church On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... The Witness of Our Own Spirit Of Christian Liberty. On Schism On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God Days of Conflict Resources What does the Bible say about forgiveness? What does it mean to forgive? | GotQuestions.orgDoes the Bible say anything about a pre-Adamic race? | GotQuestions.org Is it wrong for a Christian to have a roommate of the opposite sex? | GotQuestions.org Offence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Offense: All Things That Cause, Shall be Gathered out of Christ's Offense: Blessedness of not Taking, at Christ Offense: Denunciation Against Those Who Cause Offense: Ministers should be Cautious of Giving Offense: Ministers should Remove That Which Causes Offense: Occasions of, Forbidden Offense: Occasions of, Must Arrive Offense: Persecution, a Cause of, to Mere Professors Offense: Punishment for Occasioning Offense: Saints should Avoid Those Who Cause Offense: Saints should be Cautious of Giving Offense: Saints should be Without Offense: Saints should Cut off What Causes, to Themselves Offense: Saints should Have a Conscience Void of Offense: Saints should not Let Their Liberty Occasion, to Others Offense: Saints should Reprove Those Who Cause Offense: Saints should Use Self-Denial Rather than Occasion Offense: Saints Warned Against Taking Offense: The Wicked Take, At: Christ Crucified Offense: The Wicked Take, At: Christ, As the Bread of Life Offense: The Wicked Take, At: Christ, As the Corner-Stone Offense: The Wicked Take, At: The Low Station of Christ Offense: The Wicked Take, At: The Necessity of Inward Purity Offense: The Wicked Take, At: The Righteousness of Faith Related Terms Transgression (70 Occurrences) |
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