So often we can become offended with people. Offence is something that causes us to sin or to stumble; like unforgiveness it breaks fellowship and blocks communication. “A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle” (Prov 18:19; KJV). we can’t afford offence.

The folks in the town where Jesus grew up could not accept him and his teaching; they were offended and stumbled over the word that brought life (Matt 13:53-58). They were clearly at fault and missed God’s moment of visitation. We must remain humble and teachable.

In another vein, the Bible also has much to say about us not giving offence or causing others to stumble. In the gospel of Matthew chapter 18 and verses 3- 6 Jesus taught about the humility of children and added that: “whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (v 6). In this passage the millstone treatment makes it very clear that God does not approve of us causing others to stumble. In verse 7 of Matthew chapter 18 Jesus further reinforces God’s disapproval of our causing offense: “woe to the man by whom offence cometh”.    

If we keep our eyes on Jesus and walk in love we will not be offended or give offence.

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