Ever wondered about the true essence of belief in Jesus? Intrigued by the struggles of maintaining faith amidst unmet expectations? Interested in learning about the importance of obedience, forgiveness and humility in spiritual growth? Want to know how offense can hinder spiritual growth while adversity can foster it? Dive into this riveting exploration of faith, forgiveness, and resilience in the face of life's storms!

The Bait of Satan: Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense

As John Bevere, the author, travels across the United States ministering, he's noticed one of the most insidious traps that the enemy uses to ensnare Christians: offense. This trap imprisons countless believers, hindering them from reaching their full potential and causing rifts in relationships. 

Often, it is those closest to us who offend us, making the hurt feel like betrayal. David lamented this betrayal in Psalm 55, and today, the closest relationships—family, friends, fellow believers—can cause the deepest wounds. Offense stems from unmet expectations; the closer the relationship, the higher the expectations, and the greater the fall.

Society today is rife with selfishness, as Paul predicted, and many believers find themselves caught in a cycle of hurt and bitterness, trapped by offense. Offense is a tool of the devil, designed to capture us, as Paul explained to Timothy. Offended people often don't realize their condition, blinded by pride and convinced of their own righteousness. Yet, the Bible teaches that offense is inevitable, and how we respond to it shapes our future.

The Greek word for "offend" in Luke 17:1, skandalon, refers to a trap, and offense is just that—a snare that can lead to captivity. Jesus warned that in the last days, many would be offended, betray each other, and grow cold in love. This prophecy is unfolding as Bevere sees relationships severed and love diminished in a world where many are easily offended.

Even though offense is a common trap, there is hope. Jesus advised the church of Laodicea to "buy from Me gold refined in the fire," urging believers to purify their hearts and see their true condition. Just as gold is refined by fire to remove impurities, God uses trials to purify us, revealing hidden sins and refining our faith.

Bevere has experienced this purification firsthand. During a difficult period in his life, he became harsh and angry. When he questioned God, He revealed that these impurities were always within him but surfaced under the heat of trials. God challenged Bevere to repent and allow Him to remove these impurities, teaching him that true freedom comes from acknowledging our condition and letting go of pride and offense.

Offense can lead to betrayal, which in turn breeds hatred—a dangerous progression. Offended people build walls around their hearts, creating prisons of bitterness. These walls become strongholds, distorting our perception of God and others. We must tear down these walls and rely on God's love, which is unconditional and unfailing.

In these last days, we must guard our hearts against offense and remain steadfast in love, even when it is not returned. Our expectations of others can lead to disappointment and offense, but God's love transcends human failings. By focusing on His love, we can overcome offense and live as true followers of Christ, reflecting His character in a world growing colder by the day.

Is Offense the Devil's Most Powerful Tool Against Christians Today?

Joseph's journey is an inspiring tale of resilience and faith amidst betrayal and adversity. As Jacob's favored son, Joseph received dreams from God that foretold his future leadership. However, his brothers, fueled by jealousy, plotted against him, selling him into slavery in Egypt. Despite this cruel betrayal, Joseph remained steadfast, even as he faced further trials, such as false accusations and imprisonment. Through it all, Joseph chose to resist bitterness and trust in God's greater plan.

While in prison, Joseph's ability to interpret dreams eventually brought him before Pharaoh. His wisdom in predicting and preparing for a famine led to his rise as second in command over Egypt. When his brothers, unaware of his identity, came to Egypt seeking aid during the famine, Joseph had the power to exact revenge but chose forgiveness instead. He saw God's hand in his journey, understanding that what his brothers intended for harm, God used for good.

The narrative emphasizes that no human or devil can thwart God's plan for our lives—only we can do that by harboring offense. Joseph's story is a testament to the belief that adversity, when met with faith and forgiveness, can lead to the fulfillment of God's promises.

Similarly, the story of David and King Saul explores the pain of betrayal from a trusted leader. Despite Saul's attempts to kill him, David refused to harm Saul, recognizing Saul as God's anointed. This restraint and humility, even in the face of injustice, exemplify a heart aligned with God, trusting Him to be the ultimate judge.

These stories remind us that staying free from offense and trusting God amid trials can lead to unexpected blessings and fulfillment of divine promises. They urge us to resist the temptation to blame others or seek revenge, highlighting the power of forgiveness and faith in God's sovereign plan.

Joseph's Triumph: From Betrayal to Pharaoh's Right Hand Through Faith and Forgiveness

David, even when hunted by Saul, spared his life, demonstrating his loyalty and faith. Despite Saul's continued pursuit, David resisted the urge for vengeance, recognizing that God tests His servants to see if they will act righteously or take matters into their own hands. This patience and obedience are tests of character and faithfulness.

Samuel, as a young boy, served under the corrupt priest Eli and his wicked sons but stayed faithful to God’s calling. Despite the corruption around him, Samuel ministered to the Lord and did not judge or expose Eli's faults. This highlights the importance of serving faithfully and letting God handle judgment and correction.

In today's world, many leave churches at the first sign of trouble, thinking they can find a perfect church elsewhere. This attitude is akin to treating churches like cafeterias, picking and choosing what they like. However, God places us in specific churches for a reason, and leaving prematurely due to offense can stunt our spiritual growth. Staying through adversity helps us develop deeper spiritual roots and mature in our faith.

Offenses can cause us to flee from situations God intended to use for our growth. Like Cain, who became a fugitive due to his offense, we can become spiritual vagabonds, wandering from place to place, unable to produce true spiritual fruit. Embracing adversity and staying planted where God places us allows us to flourish and bear fruit.

Ultimately, spiritual growth requires obedience and facing difficult situations, not running from them. When we act out of offense, we miss opportunities for growth and healing. By staying faithful and allowing God to refine us through challenges, we mature and become more like Christ, producing lasting spiritual fruit.

Can We Learn True Faithfulness and Growth from David and Samuel's Trials?

Isaiah 28:16 emphasizes a sure foundation, saying, "Whoever believes will not act hastily." This notion of a steadfast foundation is illustrated through the story of Simon Peter. When Jesus asked His disciples who they believed Him to be, Peter confidently responded, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." This revelation, directly from God, became the bedrock of Peter's faith and stability.

Peter's hunger for the things of God set him apart. Unlike others who relied on hearsay, Peter sought direct revelation from God. This direct revelation is crucial, as Jesus explained that His church would be built on such revealed knowledge. The illuminated Word of God brings light and understanding, transforming individuals from being void of understanding to being mature in their faith.

Listening for God's voice within the preaching or reading of scriptures is essential. It’s not just about head knowledge but about the Word exploding in our spirits, illuminating and clarifying our path. This foundation in God’s revealed Word is likened to a rock, providing the stability needed to withstand life's adversities.

In a personal anecdote, the author shares about a secretary who wanted to marry a colleague after a prophecy. However, the young man wasn't sure. The author advised them to seek God's true revelation. Eventually, the man received clarity from God, and they married knowing it was His will. This story underscores the importance of decisions being grounded in God's revealed Word.

Moreover, the author shares his own marital struggles, highlighting how God's promises and revealed words helped him and his wife navigate and strengthen their relationship. This foundation prevented them from considering divorce, teaching them to rely on God’s wisdom.

In short, life and ministry should be built on the solid rock of God’s revealed Word. This foundation ensures that when trials come, we are not easily swayed or offended but remain steadfast, knowing that God’s revelation is our sure foundation.

Building on Rock: Peter's Revelation and the Power of God's Word

In 1 Peter 2:6-8, the Bible speaks of Jesus Christ as a precious cornerstone, but also a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense. This passage emphasizes that true belief in Jesus involves obedience, contrasting with the superficial belief that demons also share. The true essence of belief is shown through obedience to Jesus, who is precious to those who obey Him.

The Israelites, who were meant to be builders of God's kingdom, rejected Jesus because they clung to their interpretations of the Old Testament, which allowed them to control others. They missed God's desire for a relationship with His children, resulting in Jesus becoming a stumbling block to them.

Throughout His ministry, Jesus offended many, including the Pharisees, His hometown, His family, and even His own disciples. Despite their offense, Jesus spoke the truth in love and did not compromise His mission to fulfill God's will. For instance, His own family thought He was out of His mind, and many disciples left Him when His teachings became hard to accept. However, Jesus remained steadfast, knowing His mission was to serve God's purpose, not to gain human approval.

Jesus' approach teaches us about the balance between standing firm in truth and being considerate of others. For example, in Matthew 17:24-27, Jesus, though exempt from paying the temple tax, chose to pay it to avoid causing offense, showing humility and a servant's heart. Liberty in Christ should be used to serve others, not to assert our rights.

Paul, in his letters, emphasized that our freedom in Christ should not become a stumbling block for others. He urged believers to pursue peace and edification, even if it meant laying down their rights for the sake of others' spiritual well-being. This principle is crucial in avoiding unnecessary offenses and building up the body of Christ.

Ultimately, living out our faith with a servant's heart, free from offense, and dedicated to edifying others aligns us with Jesus' example and God's will.

Is Jesus Christ a Precious Cornerstone or a Rock of Offense?

Forgiveness is essential for spiritual growth, as emphasized by Jesus. He repeatedly stated that if we do not forgive others, God will not forgive us. This notion is not about empty words but requires genuine action and the release of any grudges or offenses held against others.

From childhood, we often learn that promises are not always kept, leading us to doubt the seriousness of others' words, including the teachings of Jesus. However, Jesus' words about forgiveness are sincere and must be taken seriously. He insists that unforgiveness traps us in a cycle of spiritual and mental torment, distancing us from God's presence.

A compelling story illustrates this: during a ministry trip to Indonesia, a wealthy businessman's family experienced salvation and joy. However, the man's mother struggled to feel God's presence. Upon praying, it was revealed she harbored unforgiveness towards her deceased husband. When she released this unforgiveness, she immediately felt God's presence and was spiritually transformed.

The parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18 further highlights the gravity of unforgiveness. A servant forgiven of an enormous debt refuses to forgive a minor debt owed to him, resulting in his punishment. This illustrates that our transgressions against God far outweigh any wrongs done to us, and thus, we must forgive others as God forgives us.

Unforgiveness leads to bitterness, which can defile many aspects of life, including relationships and spiritual health. The story of Absalom, who harbored unforgiveness towards his father, King David, ultimately led to his downfall and death. His inability to release his offense poisoned his heart and actions, leading to rebellion and destruction.

In contrast, King David demonstrated forgiveness and loyalty even when betrayed by King Saul. He left judgment to God and refused to avenge himself, showing a heart aligned with God's will.

Believers are urged to examine their hearts, release any offenses, and forgive genuinely. This act of forgiveness not only brings personal freedom but also aligns us with God's mercy and grace, ensuring spiritual growth and peace.

Jesus' Call to Forgive: A Path to Spiritual Growth and Divine Presence

Staying free from offense is like exercising; it requires effort and discipline. Think of it like working out to prevent injuries. The story of the author hurting his knee in Hawaii due to lack of exercise perfectly illustrates this. Similarly, our hearts need regular "exercise" to handle offenses without sustaining emotional injuries.

In Acts 24:16, the Greek word for exercise, "askeo," implies taking pains and practicing discipline. Just as physical exercise keeps us injury-free, spiritual exercise keeps our hearts in shape to forgive easily. 

The author shares an intense personal experience with someone in ministry. Despite denying the hurt, the author eventually acknowledged the deep pain and sought God's help for healing. The journey involved fasting, prayer, and ultimately, forgiveness. A significant moment came when praying passionately for the person who caused the hurt, transforming the author's heart and leading to genuine love and forgiveness.

Even after forgiving, occasional relapses occurred. The author fought these thoughts by praying for the offender's well-being, as instructed in Matthew 5:44, which helped maintain a heart free from offense.

The narrative emphasizes the importance of reconciliation. Jesus taught that anger and hatred lead to severe consequences, urging us to reconcile with those we have offended. This isn't about proving right or wrong but about healing and restoring relationships.

Approaching someone who has offended us should be done with humility and a desire for reconciliation, not revenge. If the person refuses to listen, Jesus advises involving others to help restore the relationship.

The love of God is key to overcoming offense. It requires maturity, humility, and a focus on reconciliation. By following God's example and keeping love as our motivation, we can stay free from offense and grow spiritually. This journey of forgiveness and reconciliation leads to a stronger, more compassionate heart.

Can Forgiveness and Spiritual Exercise Heal Emotional Injuries Like Physical Workouts?

Traveling across the United States, the author has observed that offense is a powerful tool used by the enemy to trap Christians. It can imprison believers, hinder their potential, and cause relational rifts, especially with those closest to us. Offense often arises from unmet expectations, exacerbated by today's selfish societal norms. Many Christians fall into cycles of hurt and bitterness, blinded by pride and convinced of their own righteousness.

The Bible teaches that offense is inevitable, but our response to it shapes our future. Offense is like a trap, leading to captivity, betrayal, and coldness in love. Jesus warned of these times, and we see this prophecy unfolding today. Despite offense being common, there's hope. God uses trials to purify us, revealing hidden sins and refining our faith.

True freedom comes from acknowledging our condition and letting go of pride and offense. Offense can lead to betrayal and hatred, creating prisons of bitterness and distorting our perception of God and others. We must tear down these walls and rely on God's unconditional love.

Guarding against offense and remaining steadfast in love, even when it's not returned, is crucial. Our expectations of others often lead to disappointment and offense, but God's love transcends human failings. By focusing on His love, we can overcome offense and live as true followers of Christ.

Spiritual growth requires staying planted where God places us, even through adversity. Leaving situations due to offense can stunt growth. Embracing adversity helps us develop deeper spiritual roots and mature in faith. Offense can lead to spiritual vagabondage, hindering true spiritual fruit. Obedience and facing difficult situations allow us to mature and become more like Christ.

A strong, personal revelation of God is vital for spiritual stability. Trials reveal our true spiritual condition, and God's purpose in allowing us to be shaken is to refine and strengthen our faith. True belief in Jesus involves obedience and love, not mere acknowledgment. Offense is inevitable when obeying God's will, but it should stem from a heart of service and humility.

Forgiveness is essential for spiritual growth. Jesus emphasized that unforgiveness traps us in spiritual torment. Genuine forgiveness requires action and the release of grudges. Unforgiveness leads to bitterness, defiling many aspects of life. In contrast, choosing forgiveness brings personal freedom and aligns us with God's mercy.

Staying free from offense requires effort and discipline. Regular spiritual "exercise" helps our hearts handle offenses without injury. Reconciliation is crucial, and approaching those who have offended us should be done with humility. The love of God is key to overcoming offense, requiring maturity and a focus on reconciliation. This journey leads to a stronger, more compassionate heart.

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