ARE YOU EASILY OFFENDED?

ARE YOU EASILY OFFENDED?

Matt 13:20-21

20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

           The word “offended” appears 25 times in the Authorized Version. The word “offend” appears another 25 times. Mirriam-Webster says that “to offend” means “to cause discomfort or pain; to hurt; to cause dislike or vexation; to annoy.” The Greek word is skandalizo from which we get our English word “scandal.”

           It is not uncommon for churches to have some members wander away, drop out or switch churches because of some real or perceived offense. Their expectations are not met or their sensibilities are bruised and they begin to distrust and disrespect their pastor or their church or even their God. When tribulation or persecution arises, by and by they are offended.

           It is amazing at how little is required to offend some. These live in “stony places” and the seed of the Word is not well rooted in them; does not go deep. Their relationship with God is of supply and demand. They demand and then expect God to supply. They form an opinion of church that is not realistic and when the church fails to meet their expectations they search for one that fits their model. Some are proud and search for a church that is worthy of them. Some are embarrassed and retreat to a church that is unaware of their situation. Some simply can’t handle the truth when it is strongly delivered. Jesus had similar problems.

Jesus was teaching at Capernaum and the teaching was hard to bear. Some said “this is an hard saying; who can bear it?” Jesus asks what I think is the saddest question in the Bible in verse 67.

John 6:60-61

60 Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?

61 When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you?

John 6:66-67

66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

Trouble tempts us to draw away but truth and trust draws us close! When we are challenged by the truth let us have the courage to inspect our lives and bring ourselves in line with that truth. Let us be humble enough to not let embarrassing things drive us away. Let us be mature enough to remain.

Ps 119:165

165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.

Dear Lord, help me today to abide in your Word so that I will not be offended. AMEN