One of the greatest needs in the lives of many today is to learn to handle offenses in a Christ-like manner. The Bible gives clear answers and positive instruction.
We must be ever so careful not to become a stumbling block to another. We are told in Romans 14:21 that we are “Not to do anything by which your brother stumbles, or is offended or is made weak.”
When we become insensitive, become careless, indifferent, self-centered; thinking only of self, instead of others, we are at risk of sinning against Christ. When we mishandle offensive situations 1 Corinthians 8:12 explains, “We sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, we sin against Christ.” Verse 9 tells us “not to become a stumbling block to those that are weak.”
We are instructed in Philippians 2:2-5 to be “like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind...let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Christ-likeness! Oh, to be more like Christ!
Clearly Jesus instructed, “To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also.” (Luke 6:29) Our Lord said it again in Matthew 5:39, “But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” See Luke 6:27-38.
We are told to “Bless those who curse you.” (verses 27-28). By turning the other cheek (verse 28) we are agreeing to let it go, let the matter rest, don’t resist, don’t fight back, don’t try to get even, and don’t be offended! (verse 31) “The Golden Rule” is to treat everyone as you yourself would want to be treated!
The Apostle Paul understood the importance of a clear conscience when he said in Acts 24:16, “I always strive to have a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.“ We learn in Romans 14:19, Let us pursue the things which make for peace, and the things by which we may edify another.” Scripture says, “There should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.” (1 Corinthians 12:25)
Our Lord Jesus prayed earnestly to the Father in John 17:21, “That they all may be one, as you, Father, are in me, and I in you; that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.” (See John 13:34-35)
Romans 15:5-6 tells us to “Be like minded toward one another...that with one mind and one mouth glorify our God and Savior Jesus Christ.” Galatians 6:10 continues by saying, “As we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those of the household of faith.”
Brookfield, Mo. —
