Luke 17 - The Unintended Consequences of Our Sin!

17 Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. 2 It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble. 3 So watch yourselves.

Click Here To Read the Rest of Luke 17

As Jesus moves to the practical side of what it means to be a disciple, he acknowledges that there are going to be many obstacles in our way.  We often think of the consequences of our sin in our lives, but what about the unintended consequences of it in other people's lives.  Though we can't escape the world and its temptations, we should avoid being a stumbling block for someone else. 

We see in our world many prominent pastors of large churches having to resign from their pastorates due to alleged improprieties.  Whether they are guilty or not, it has a big effect on their flocks.  But Jesus is not just talking to pastors, but any Christian. Any Christian has impact of those around them, even in their own families.  Sometimes it is easier to consider the impact our sin has on our own lives, but we neglect to see the effect on others around us.  

But as you read the rest of this chapter, you will see that when we sin we are called to repent and make amends to those we have injured. The person who has been hurt needs to forgive the offender as they repent of their sin.  Not just once, twice or three times, but Jesus says "seven times".  He does not literally mean "seven" and then nol more, but is saying if someone repents and turns from their sin we are to forgive them.  Why?  Because God forgives us of our sin when we repent.  How can I hold back forgiveness, when God has been so gracious to me even when I return to my same sin?  

Although it is unfortunate when leaders fall, when need to forgive them if they are honest in their confession and desire to repent.  Only God knows a human heart, and we are not the judge of others.  Pray for your leaders and others in authority that they may use their influence wisely.  And pray that you too might be a good example to those you lead, not because you are perfect but because you are forgiven. We are all called to strive to live a life worthy of the calling as Jesus' disciples in the power of the Holy Spirit.  

This "Holy Week" we contemplate just how great His love is for us when we contemplate his going to cross willingly to die for all of our sins, past, present and future.