Luke 17:1-4 Jesus' Way

Luke 17:1-4 NIV
Only four verses and so much in them!

Jesus warns the disciples and us that we are to be very cautious on how we treat others. We are not to cause any one to sin. In other words, don't be teaching others to sin, either by word or example. And, if someone sins against you, forgive them. Actually what Jesus says is: “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” (vs 4)

Please note that Jesus does not tell us that we are to accept everything that everybody does. Everything is not ok or beneficial. Sin needs to be addressed in order for others to not stumble; in order for us not to stumble. Christians sometimes get accused of not being very Christ-like because they will not accept sin simply as an alternative and acceptable way to be. There is only "One Way" for the Christian. Jesus is "The Way." To teach or approve of any other way is to set up a stumbling block. To close our eyes to sin or say that there is no sin is setting up a stumbling block for ourselves as well as for others. The consequences will be devastating. But, if a brother sins against a Christian, the Christian will bring it to their attention and when they repent will forgive them in order that neither of them will suffer consequences worse than have a millstone tied around their necks and thrown into the sea.

I'm ok.
You're ok.
When Jesus is "The Way." 

God's Peace - Pr. J 

Mark 9:38-50 - Disrespecting Jesus

Mark 9:38-50 NIV


Yesterday, I listened to a barrage of negatives. Sometimes, it seems, that some people like to disrespect our faith; disrespect our Jesus, in order to express their independent thinking. Having heard God's name taken in vain so repeatedly and purposefully for such a lengthy period left me completely spiritually, emotionally and physically drained.

All I could think of was where does this stuff come from? How can anyone who would openly and publically slander Jesus ever think to have my trust or the trust of anyone else. To try to hurt someone with their faith is just totally uncalled for. It is hurtful. It is discrimination.

Jesus told his disciples "for whoever is not against us is for us." (vs 40) But, what happens then to those who are against us; who are not for Jesus? What will become of those who willingly and openly slander His name, using it to hurt others rather than do good? Jesus, encourages us to do good to one another. "Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward." (vs 41) Jesus came to do good. He came to save us. We are to use His name for the good of others; not to disparage them; not to hurt them; and definitely not in order that we would have a name (His name) to slander.

And, again Jesus said, "If anyone causes one of these little one - those who believe in me - to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea." (vs 42) It will not be good for those who spend their lives slandering Jesus causing others to stumble; causing others to lose faith. It will not be good for those who would lead others astray.

What to do with those who would use the name of Jesus in an unholy way? Pray for them. Pray that they might turn around, follow Him, and glorify His Holy name.

God's Peace - Pr. J