Because they did not seek it by faith, but as it were, by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone. (Rom 9:32)
Behold I lay in Zion a stumbling stone, and rock of offense, and whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame. (Rom 9:33)
. . . and “a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. (1 Pet 2:8)
The gospel of Jesus Christ is distasteful to many unbelievers. The salvation that God has provided through Jesus Christ becomes a stumbling stone and a rock of offense to them. The Bible tells us that this will be so.
Unbelievers may stumble or be offended about a number of points. Let’s look at several of those points.
- The Bible tells us that Jesus suffered, died, and was resurrected. If someone doesn’t believe in resurrection, this can be a point of stumbling.
- The simplicity of salvation, because it is a gift to be accepted/received, may be “too good to be true” for many. It’s just not complicated enough and doesn’t include enough works for them.
- Some people think the church and its people are weak. The church has no political agenda, and we have no military might. This is not attractive to the carnal mind.
- Yet other folks believe that they are good people, and have never done anything seriously evil. Therefore, they believe, that they don’t need anything more than that.
Our own attitude towards Jesus and His gospel determines our spiritual welfare. He is a sanctuary to those who bless Him. He is a place of refuge, peace and security to those who believe in Him. However, to those who reject Him, He becomes a stone to trip over. He becomes a devastating stone of judgment to the proud of heart. Many people crash into Him and trip over Him because they try to live as if He doesn’t exist. Jesus Christ will always be a stumbling stone to those who refuse to trust in Him.
How very blessed are all those who love the Lord Jesus!
decidingvoteblog 