Who Are The Stumbling Blocks?
The Bible tells us that all stumbling blocks will be destroyed in the lake of fire (Matt. 13:41-42). Who are the stumbling blocks?
You may be shocked to learn that stumbling blocks are true disciples of Jesus Christ who cause others to stumble in some way, preventing or destroying their chances of knowing the truth. The stumbling blocks are still practicing sin and living lawless lives (1 John 3:4). They are practicing worldliness by swearing, smoking, getting drunk or not being a godly example to others (Gal. 5:19-21; Mark 7:21-23; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Eph. 5:5-6; Col. 3:8; Rev. 21:8).
Jesus said anyone who causes another person God is calling into the truth to stumble is in big trouble (Matt. 18:6-7). Jesus then said in parable form that if any member of the body of believers causes another to stumble, it would be better to cut off the member that offends, than to receive the punishment that comes from making a potential disciple of Jesus Christ stumble (Matt. 18:8-9).
Jesus Christ called the Apostle Peter "Satan" because Peter was setting his mind on man’s interests and not God’s. Because of this, Peter was momentarily a stumbling block to Christ (Matt. 16:23). Anyone who does not put God first in every area of his life is a potential stumbling block!
What causes people to stumble and who are the stumbling blocks? Just read these Scriptures to remove all doubt from your mind: Jude 15-16; 2 Peter 2:2-6, 10, 12-15, 17-19; James 1:7-8; and 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
When you find the truth, do not speak against it in any way. Do not discourage or hinder anyone from entering the kingdom within, as the religious leaders of Christ’s day did (Matt. 23:13; Luke 11:52; 17:21). Help others to overcome by encouraging them to serve others for Christ (Heb. 10:24; Col. 3:17). Be a good example to them for Christ (Titus 2:7). God loves those who practice righteousness for Him (1 John 3:7, 10).
Jesus Christ is able to keep you from stumbling if you put Him first in your daily life and keep Him first (Jude 24). Begin today by studying His word, which allows Him to teach you, and then put what you learn into practice.
Last of all, do not try to hinder a man of God from doing God’s work. Instead, support him by not speaking evil about him, and help him in whatever way you can (Matt. 10:40-42; 24:45-47). In doing so, you will be helping Jesus Christ make doers of His word.
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