Stumbling Blocks

 N.T.#214 "Stumbling Blocks"

Jan. 2, 2024 

Matthew 18-Part 4

LET IT GLOW 

Previously, Jesus was speaking of the consequences of offending little ones, whether children or young spiritual Christians. (verse 6) 

It is one thing to be a stumbling block to yourself. It's far worse to be a spiritual stumbling block to others. Jesus pronounced woe-judgment-upon those who cause offenses, those who make people spiritually stumble. (Tony Evans)

Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! (verse 7)

In the Greek language, woe refers to a rebuke; warning; calling attention to; offences are snares; a thing that offends; stumblingblock; occasion to fall.

In other words, if we are the source causing one to fall into sin, then woe to us. The present world is an evil world, so full of of offences, of sins, snares, and sorrows. It is a dangerous road we travel on in life, so full of stumblingblocks and false guides. There will be no excuse for the offenders. 

What sorrow awaits the world, because it tempts people to sin. Temptations are inevitable, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting. (New Living Translation Bible)

Seriously, we must take notice as to what we wear, how we speak, things we do so we do not cause others to fall into sin. We must beware of those things which cause us to be drawn away into lust and sin. Watch out that our heart doesn't become corrupt. 

LET IT GROW 

In verses 8 and 9, Jesus wasn't calling for self-mutilation. Sin ultimately begins in the heart and mind. (5:21-30). Jesus called for radical efforts to avoid hell-fire. (verse 9) The spiritual is vastly superior to the physical. People must be willing to avoid eternal judgment at any and all costs. (Tony Evans)

If magazines, television shows, shiny things lead us down the wrong path, then we need to eliminate them. If we are friends with a worldly person, find a believer who loves God's Word. 

Jesus wants us to help weak believers, love and teach the lambs in Christ's flock. 

Are there less noticeable members of our church that need ministering and encouraged to, then do it. Jesus loves them, too. Is there a program, person, or teaching that threatens the spiritual growth and not the Truth, then we need to remove it. 

LET IT GO

Help us let go of those things in our life that are displeasing to You, Savior.

Show us if there are things in our life that is causing others to stumble into sin.

Give us strength to do what is needed.

Praise the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me, praise the Lord.

What a Father, Savior, and friend, He is!