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“Woe to the world’s inevitable stumbling-blocks!1 But, woe to the person who causes the stumbling!”2
| 1 | Woe to the world’s inevitable stumbling-blocks: The Greek for “stumbling-blocks” is SCANDALON. Or, KJV: woe unto the world because of offenses; ASV: occasions of stumbling; RSV: temptations to sin; KNX: hurt done to consciences; WMS: influences to do wrong. Research the words world or KOSMOS for notes. |
| 2 | Causes the stumbling: Research the word scandal for notes. What may cause “stumbling”? See Matthew 16:23 for an example. Compare 1 Samuel 25:31; Ezekiel 7:19, 20; 14:3, 4; Romans 14:13; 1 Corinthians 8:9; Revelation 2:14. Many will quote Psalm 119:165 here but it is wise to discern the meaning. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose Matthew 18:7 as the theme verse of chapter eighteen – Stumbling and Forgiveness. After the disciples ask who is the greatest in the kingdom realm Jesus gives a lesson on becoming child-like. [1-6] If someone stumbles one of these spiritual children it will be serious indeed. Jesus foretells the danger of stumbling-blocks. [7-11] Those who continue to stumble others [that is, practicing scandalous acts] are in danger of Gehenna. Then the Nazarene gives a parable of searching for lost sheep. [12-14]
Jesus then instructs his disciples regarding the three steps to take in gaining a brother. [15-17] The Nazarene then gives special authority to his apostles. [18-20] Two or three of the apostles may bind or release a matter, and where two or three of them is gathered Jesus promises to be among them. However, Peter raises the question of how many times he must forgive a brother. [21, 22] Jesus says to forgive as many as seven times seven. He then proceeds to relate a parable about the kingdom and forgiveness. [23-35] The Nazarene’s moral is that if one does not forgive from the heart, neither will they be forgiven.
Abba our Father bless those who forgive.
[30 October 2002]
There will continue to be temptations and causes of stumbling in the world which will lead thousands astray and cause much sorrow.
