Thought for Today: “Stumbling Blocks”

After the breakup of the nation of Israel, the 10 northern tribes under the reign of king Jeroboam sinned greatly, especially in their worship of the Lord. What they did was build their own alter and worshiped God in their own way instead of the prescribed way given by God in His word.

And in doing this, Jeroboam caused Israel to continue to sin through all those who followed. The Bible says that they “did evil in the eyes of the Lord and did not turn away from any of the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he had caused Israel to commit.” (2 Kings 13:11)

This is a serious charge, and one we need to pay attention to, so that we don’t do the same, that is, through our actions and words we cause those around us to sin.

“Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” (1 Corinthians 8:9)

“What sorrow awaits the world because it tempts people to sin. Temptations are inevitable, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting.” (Matthew 18:7)

If we are to put up stumbling blocks, however, then let them be for people’s redemption and the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

“But we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.” (1 Corinthians 1:23)