Overcoming Offense: A Path to Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, church! Today, we continued our series on "The Bait of Satan," focusing on overcoming offense. Offense is a trap set by Satan to ensnare believers, causing them to withdraw, harbor bitterness, and build walls that hinder their relationship with God and others. Jesus warned that offenses will come, and our task is to learn how to overcome them.
We began by acknowledging that offenses are inevitable. Jesus said in Luke 17:1 that it is impossible for offenses not to come. Accepting this reality helps us prepare mentally and spiritually. However, we must ensure that we do not intentionally cause offense to others. Walking in humility and seeking God's guidance can help us avoid being the source of offense.
Next, we discussed the importance of not picking up offenses. Offenses can be genuine or perceived, and it's crucial to examine our hearts to discern if we are holding onto an offense. We must invite God to search our hearts and reveal any offensive ways within us. Walking in humility, as Jesus did, helps us to let go of offenses and not allow them to take root in our lives.
Forgiveness is a critical step in overcoming offense. Jesus taught us to forgive not just once but repeatedly, as many as seventy times seven. Forgiveness does not mean condoning the offense but releasing the offender from the debt they owe us. This act of forgiveness frees us from the torment of holding onto bitterness and allows us to experience God's peace.
Reconciliation, if possible, is the next step. Jesus instructed us to go to the person who has offended us and seek to reconcile. This process may take time and effort, but it is essential for healing and restoring relationships. However, if reconciliation is not possible, we must still forgive and pray for the offender.
Finally, we must exercise our spirits to live free from offense. Just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies, spiritual exercise strengthens our spirits. Engaging with God's Word, praying in the Spirit, and maintaining fellowship with other believers are vital practices that help us stay spiritually fit and resilient against offenses.
In conclusion, God uses offenses to refine our character and faith. The story of Joseph illustrates how God can turn offenses into opportunities for growth and fulfillment of His purposes. By overcoming offenses, we can live in the fullness of God's presence and blessings.
### Key Takeaways
1. Accept the Reality of Offenses: Offenses are inevitable, as Jesus stated in Luke 17:1. Accepting this reality helps us prepare mentally and spiritually to deal with them. Denying or resisting this truth only leads to frustration and bitterness. Embrace the fact that offenses will come and seek God's perspective to navigate through them. [33:31]
2. Do Not Cause Offense Intentionally: While offenses are unavoidable, we must ensure that we are not the source of them. Walking in humility and seeking God's guidance can help us avoid causing offense. Jesus never intentionally offended anyone; He simply spoke the truth. We should strive to do the same, ensuring that our actions and words are rooted in love and humility. [47:15]
3. Forgive the Offender: Forgiveness is crucial in overcoming offense. Jesus taught us to forgive repeatedly, as many as seventy times seven. Forgiveness does not mean condoning the offense but releasing the offender from the debt they owe us. This act of forgiveness frees us from the torment of holding onto bitterness and allows us to experience God's peace. [59:26]
4. Reconcile if Possible: Reconciliation is the next step after forgiveness. Jesus instructed us to go to the person who has offended us and seek to reconcile. This process may take time and effort, but it is essential for healing and restoring relationships. However, if reconciliation is not possible, we must still forgive and pray for the offender. [01:07:07]
5. Exercise Your Spirit: Just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies, spiritual exercise strengthens our spirits. Engaging with God's Word, praying in the Spirit, and maintaining fellowship with other believers are vital practices that help us stay spiritually fit and resilient against offenses. A well-exercised spirit finds it easier to forgive and bless those who offend. [01:12:36]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[30:35] - Announcements
[32:05] - Introduction to The Bait of Satan Series
[33:31] - Accepting the Reality of Offenses
[35:04] - Difference Between Feeling Offended and Picking Up Offense
[36:40] - The Greek Word Skandalon
[38:11] - Offenses in the End Times
[39:41] - Building Walls and Isolation
[41:15] - The Dead Sea Analogy
[44:09] - Six Steps to Overcome Offense
[47:15] - Do Not Cause Offense Intentionally
[50:33] - Don't Pick Up Offenses
[53:23] - Examine Your Heart
[56:20] - Walk in Humility Like Christ
[59:26] - Forgive the Offender
[01:07:07] - Reconcile if Possible
[01:12:36] - Exercise Your Spirit
[01:18:51] - The Story of Joseph
[01:25:14] - Prayer and Reflection
[01:31:22] - Benediction and Closing
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Luke 17:1 - "Jesus said to his disciples: 'Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come.'"
2. Matthew 18:21-22 - "Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'"
3. Philippians 2:3-8 - "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!"
### Observation Questions
1. According to Luke 17:1, what did Jesus say about the inevitability of offenses? How does this align with the sermon’s message about accepting the reality of offenses? [33:31]
2. In Matthew 18:21-22, how many times does Jesus instruct us to forgive someone who sins against us? How does this teaching challenge our natural inclinations? [59:26]
3. What example of humility and obedience does Philippians 2:3-8 provide? How does this passage relate to the sermon’s emphasis on walking in humility to avoid causing offense? [47:15]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to accept the reality that offenses will come, as mentioned in Luke 17:1? How does this acceptance prepare us mentally and spiritually? [33:31]
2. How does Jesus’ instruction to forgive "seventy times seven" in Matthew 18:21-22 reflect the nature of God’s forgiveness towards us? What does this imply about our own capacity to forgive? [59:26]
3. In what ways does Philippians 2:3-8 encourage us to adopt a mindset of humility? How can this mindset help us avoid causing offense to others? [47:15]
4. The sermon mentioned that spiritual exercise is necessary to live free from offense. How does engaging with God's Word and maintaining fellowship with other believers strengthen our spirits? [01:12:36]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you felt offended. How did you handle it, and what could you have done differently to align with Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness? [35:04]
2. Jesus instructs us to forgive repeatedly. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What steps can you take this week to begin the process of forgiveness? [59:26]
3. The sermon emphasized the importance of not causing offense intentionally. Can you think of a time when your words or actions might have unintentionally offended someone? How can you seek reconciliation? [47:15]
4. How can you incorporate spiritual exercises, such as reading the Bible and praying, into your daily routine to strengthen your spirit against offenses? [01:12:36]
5. The sermon mentioned that God uses offenses to refine our character and faith. Can you identify a past offense that led to personal growth or a deeper relationship with God? [01:18:51]
6. How can you practice humility in your daily interactions to avoid being the source of offense? What specific actions can you take to value others above yourself? [47:15]
7. Think of a person who has offended you. How can you pray for them and seek God’s blessing for their life, as encouraged in the sermon? [01:05:35]
Devotional
Day 1: Embrace the Inevitability of Offenses
Offenses are an unavoidable part of life, as Jesus clearly stated in Luke 17:1. Accepting this reality helps us prepare mentally and spiritually to deal with them. Denying or resisting this truth only leads to frustration and bitterness. Embrace the fact that offenses will come and seek God's perspective to navigate through them. By acknowledging that offenses are inevitable, we can better equip ourselves to handle them with grace and wisdom. This acceptance allows us to focus on how to respond rather than being caught off guard when offenses occur. [33:31]
Luke 17:1 (ESV): "And he said to his disciples, 'Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come!'"
Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you felt offended. How can accepting the inevitability of offenses change your perspective and response in similar future situations?
Day 2: Avoid Being the Source of Offense
While offenses are unavoidable, we must ensure that we are not the source of them. Walking in humility and seeking God's guidance can help us avoid causing offense. Jesus never intentionally offended anyone; He simply spoke the truth. We should strive to do the same, ensuring that our actions and words are rooted in love and humility. By being mindful of our behavior and speech, we can minimize the chances of causing offense to others. This requires a heart of humility and a constant reliance on God's wisdom and guidance. [47:15]
Romans 14:13 (ESV): "Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother."
Reflection: Reflect on your recent interactions. Is there someone you may have unintentionally offended? How can you seek God's guidance to ensure your words and actions are rooted in love and humility?
Day 3: The Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is crucial in overcoming offense. Jesus taught us to forgive repeatedly, as many as seventy times seven. Forgiveness does not mean condoning the offense but releasing the offender from the debt they owe us. This act of forgiveness frees us from the torment of holding onto bitterness and allows us to experience God's peace. Forgiveness is a powerful tool that liberates both the forgiver and the forgiven, paving the way for healing and restoration. [59:26]
Colossians 3:13 (ESV): "Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life you need to forgive. Can you ask God to help you begin to extend His love and forgiveness to them today?
Day 4: Seek Reconciliation When Possible
Reconciliation is the next step after forgiveness. Jesus instructed us to go to the person who has offended us and seek to reconcile. This process may take time and effort, but it is essential for healing and restoring relationships. However, if reconciliation is not possible, we must still forgive and pray for the offender. Reconciliation is a journey that requires patience, humility, and a willingness to rebuild trust. [01:07:07]
Matthew 5:23-24 (ESV): "So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift."
Reflection: Is there a relationship in your life that needs reconciliation? What steps can you take today to begin the process of healing and restoring that relationship?
Day 5: Strengthen Your Spirit
Just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies, spiritual exercise strengthens our spirits. Engaging with God's Word, praying in the Spirit, and maintaining fellowship with other believers are vital practices that help us stay spiritually fit and resilient against offenses. A well-exercised spirit finds it easier to forgive and bless those who offend. By prioritizing spiritual disciplines, we can build a strong foundation that enables us to navigate offenses with grace and resilience. [01:12:36]
1 Timothy 4:8 (ESV): "For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come."
Reflection: What spiritual disciplines can you incorporate into your daily routine to strengthen your spirit? How can these practices help you become more resilient against offenses?
Quotes
1. "If we learn to overcome offenses in our life, does it mean then that we will never ever again be offended because now we've learned how to overcome it? And the answer is no, no. Because Jesus made it very clear that offenses must come. They shall come. Whether you like it or not, you're going to have to face them. It's going to be part of our lives until Jesus returns." [33:31] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Listen, there's a difference between being or feeling offended and picking up an offense. There's a difference between, you know, somebody does something and I get offended. I see something, I get offended. I don't like that. It's terrible. It's another thing for me to pick up an offense. Remember for the box to fall on me, boom. And now I'm trapped. I'm hurt. I'm bitter. I'm angry. And I'm living in that thing every day." [35:04] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We build walls. We pull back. We build walls. And instead of giving, instead of loving, we protest. I don't want to get hurt. I start building walls. A brother offended is harder to win over than a walled city because we put up walls. And your love begins to grow cold. It's not easy to love anymore because I can't trust you. That guy hurt me, so you're going to hurt me too. And so I start putting up walls. Love grows cold. We tend towards isolation." [41:15] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We run the danger of withholding love. And we don't give out anymore. We just want to protect. You know, we'll receive, but we'll protect. It's mine. It's mine. No, no, you're not going to cheat me out of my money. No, no, no, no. You're not going to get me in a position where I can get hurt again. No, no, no, no. I'm not going to love you. I love you, and I get attached to you. And then you disappoint me, and I'm hurt. No, no, no, no, no, no. Walls, walls, walls, walls. I'm not giving. I'm holding back, and I hold back love. What happens? Life begins to die. Love grows cold." [42:38] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Acceptance means recognizing reality as it is, without resistance or denial. It doesn't imply agreement with reality, okay? But it allows you to see clearly what you can control and what you cannot. And this applies to all areas of life, not just offense. So often we get caught up in situations in life, and you're bitter about it, and we're fighting, we're fighting, but it's something that you and I have no control of. We need to accept that reality, okay?" [45:32] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "You've got no control over what comes at you, but you're in full control of what comes out of you. I'm going to say it again. You've got no control about what comes at you, but you're in full control of what comes out of you. Anybody still saying amen? Are you still thinking about it? Think about it. Think about it. All right. So the truth will always offend people, but don't you cause the offense." [48:57] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "We live in a world which easily picks up an offense. We live in a world which supports being offended, encourages you from being offended. We live in a world that says, you know what, that guy did this to you, cancel him. Just cancel him. Just blank out. You don't have to talk to him anymore. You don't have to read his things. Just cancel him on your social media. Just ignore the guy. And whenever you can, whenever you can. If you have a chance, talk bad about him. Tell everybody what they did. Tell everybody what a nasty person they are. Just do your thing. They must learn, man. They must find out how horrible they are." [54:47] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "God's love always wants the best for the other, wants the best for us. And if we're going to walk in agape, we cannot allow ourselves to be provoked, you know, by disappointments, by offenses. Yes, it will be there, you know, but if you're walking in love, you can overcome that. It's amazing. Jesus, he had plenty of reasons to get offended. And yes, he got angry sometimes. He spoke firmly sometimes, but he never held a grudge against anybody. He desired them to come to the knowledge of salvation. He still does. He still does." [56:20] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "You have to forgive. You have to just understand that, okay? And so do not seek vengeance. Oh, that's so easy. You want to seek vengeance all the time. Romans 12:19, do not seek vengeance, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written, it is mine to avenge. I will repay, says the Lord. Why does the Lord want to take responsibility for vengeance? Because you and I don't know all the facts. God knows all the facts." [01:04:05] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "God uses offense as a test to refine our character and faith. This is seen in the story of Joseph. There are many others in the Bible, but quickly the story of Joseph. You know him. You know, big mouth. He has a dream. That is his favorite boy. Blabbing to everybody. I saw a dream. You guys are going to bow down before me. Proud. Arrogant. God can't use people like that. He's got a great destiny for the boy, but this boy is arrogant and proud. He's going to go nowhere fast." [01:18:51] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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