Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of offense often relates to the stumbling or falling into sin, particularly when the wicked take offense at the righteous standards set by God. This is closely tied to the necessity of inward purity, a theme that runs throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of a pure heart and mind in the life of a believer.Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently underscores the need for inward purity as a prerequisite for true righteousness. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). This beatitude highlights the intrinsic link between purity of heart and the ability to perceive and experience God. The wicked, however, often take offense at such standards, as they are contrary to their nature and desires. Offense of the Wicked The wicked are frequently depicted in Scripture as those who reject God's commandments and take offense at His call to holiness. In Proverbs 29:27, it is written, "An unjust man is detestable to the righteous, and one whose way is upright is detestable to the wicked" . This mutual detestation underscores the offense taken by the wicked at the righteous standards upheld by those who seek inward purity. The Apostle Paul addresses this dynamic in his letters, noting that the message of the cross is "foolishness to those who are perishing" (1 Corinthians 1:18). The call to inward purity and the transformation it requires is often met with scorn and offense by those who are entrenched in wickedness. Necessity of Inward Purity Inward purity is not merely an external adherence to religious rituals but a deep, transformative process that aligns one's heart with God's will. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their focus on outward appearances while neglecting the purity of the heart: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence" (Matthew 23:25). The necessity of inward purity is further emphasized in the Psalms, where David prays, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalm 51:10). This plea reflects the understanding that true purity begins within and is essential for a right relationship with God. Challenges and Responses Believers are called to maintain inward purity despite the offense it may cause to the wicked. This often requires a steadfast commitment to God's Word and a reliance on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance. In 2 Corinthians 7:1, Paul exhorts the church, "Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God" . The challenge for Christians is to uphold the standard of inward purity while navigating a world that may take offense at such a commitment. The believer's response should be one of love, patience, and unwavering dedication to the truth of Scripture, trusting that God will use their witness to draw others to Himself. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 15:11,12Not that which goes into the mouth defiles a man; but that which comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library On Regeneration Of Christian Liberty. The Indwelling of the Spirit, the Common Privilege of all ... A Traveler's Note-Book Miscellaneous Subjects. Doctrinal and Moral Treatises. Index of Subjects. Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ... From the Close of the General Conference of 1832 to the Beginning ... 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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