Beware of Offenses: A Call to Unity and Grace

||Rhema for the Week||

And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭7‬:‭23‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

In any community, the probability of offenses increases as people come together. The closer we get to one another, the greater the likelihood of stepping on each other’s toes. Jesus Himself recognized this reality when He said, “It is impossible that no offenses should come…” (Luke 17:1, NKJV). This statement reveals a simple but profound truth: offenses are inevitable. As such, it is essential for Christians to learn how to deal with offenses, especially within the body of Christ, where we are called to be in fellowship with one another.

Offense Is Not an Invitation to Break Away

One of the most common temptations when faced with offense is the desire to leave the community where the offense occurred. This temptation is particularly strong when the offense comes from a fellow believer. However, it is crucial to understand that an offense from a fellow Christian does not give you the license to leave the Church. The analogy can be made with a hospital: if one doctor makes a mistake, you don’t stop seeking medical care altogether. Similarly, you wouldn’t stop boarding buses simply because you’ve experienced an accident on one. The same principle applies to the church. The Church is not perfect, and it will never be entirely free from human error. Yet, Christ is still at work in the midst of His Church, walking among the lampstands. Breaking away usually starts slowly in the heart, and then dictates your mood, affects your response to spiritual things, corrupts your consecration, and finally steals your love for the Lord and the brethren.

The Danger of Generalization

Another temptation is to generalize the offense. When one Christian wrongs us, the devil whispers, “All Christians are the same.” This is a subtle tactic designed to sow division and separate you from the body of Christ. The truth is that an offense by one member does not reflect the heart of the entire Church. The Church is the body of Christ, and while individuals may falter, Christ remains ever faithful. Generalizing an offense to encompass all believers not only distorts the reality of the situation but also isolates you from the fellowship and strength found in the community of faith.

Restoration and Reconciliation

When we are wronged by a fellow believer, we are called to pursue restoration and reconciliation, not separation. The Scriptures instruct us to address offenses directly, with a spirit of humility and grace.

If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone; if he hears you, you have gained your brother (Matthew 18:15, NKJV).

This principle of confrontation is not to be done with bitterness or malice but in a spirit of love and the desire for healing. Furthermore, as members of the same body, we are called to be each other’s keepers. If you are hurt by a brother or sister, seek the counsel of another trusted member of the body to help navigate the situation. We are not meant to suffer in silence or harbor grudges. The Church exists to support, encourage, and hold one another accountable.

Unity and the Bond of Peace

As the body of Christ, we are called to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. This is not merely a passive unity but an active, intentional commitment to maintain peace despite the offenses that may arise. It is our responsibility as much as it is anyone’s to preserve the unity within the Church. This unity is a testimony to the world of the transforming power of Christ’s love.

In a world where division and discord are rampant, the Church is called to be a place of healing, reconciliation, and unity. Offenses will come, but they do not define the Church or its members. Christ, who dwells in the midst of the Church, calls us to rise above personal grievances and to seek peace, restoration, and unity. Let us not join the world in pointing fingers at the Church but rather take responsibility for maintaining the peace and unity of the Spirit, reflecting the love of Christ in all our relationships.

Further Readings: Revelation 1:12-13, Ephesians 4:3, Matthew 18:15-18