Unlimited: Those Who Cause Little Ones to Stumble
May 20, 2024 2058
If anyone causes one of these little ones—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 (Mark 9:42, NIV).
Jesus taught the disciples the importance of humility and selflessness: the importance of treating everyone, no matter how undeserving as if they were Christ himself.
But this was so contrary to their culture and religious traditions, that the disciples were having a hard time understanding this. So, Jesus used some very strong language to ram the point home!
Without doubt, this is very strong language. This issue must be of supreme importance in the kingdom of God. And indeed, it is.
If the first law of Christ’s kingdom is love, then to cause another to stumble, no matter how unworthy they may be, is to betray the most central principle of Christ’s rule.
Jesus was saying that to treat the unworthy with anything less than love, was to throw away your eternal life.
If you have accepted salvation from Jesus, then the result will be a selfless, loving life.
Jesus wasn’t only talking about little children. He was just using them an example.
Jesus himself said that he’s talking about those who believe in him. He’s talking about those people who might be newer in their faith, or who are going through hard times, or just simply people you don’t agree with, and especially in the church or the Christian community. He’s talking about anyone who might be vulnerable.
– Eliezer Gonzalez
Eli’s Reflection: So, ask yourself this most difficult question: Have you ever caused any of these little ones to stumble? How can you be an encouragement to the vulnerable, to the new Christian, and to those in need? Perhaps this is you. Who can be an encouragement to you in this season?
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