Posted June 16, 2026, by Timothy

Jesus and the Bible on Offense

The Bible teaches that offense—whether caused by others or felt by us—can be a serious spiritual matter. In Scripture, “offense” often refers to a stumbling block (skandalon), something that leads someone into sin, provokes anger, or causes spiritual harm. Jesus himself warned, “Woe to the world because of offenses! For it must needs be that offenses come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes” (Matthew 18:7).

Jesus’ Teaching on Offense

Jesus modeled humility, forgiveness, and love in the face of offense. He forgave those who wronged Him, even the Pharisees who took offense at His words (Matthew 15:12). He taught that forgiveness should be boundless: “Not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:21-22). His example shows that holding offense is contrary to God’s heart.

Biblical Principles for Handling Offense

1. Desire Peace and Edification – Romans 14:19 urges pursuing what leads to peace and mutual growth.
2. Forgive as You Have Been Forgiven – Matthew 6:14-15, Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:32, and Luke 6:37 emphasize that forgiveness is essential for receiving God’s forgiveness.
3. Avoid Quick Offense – James 1:19 calls for being “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger”.
4. Seek Restoration – Matthew 18:15-17 provides a process for addressing offenses privately and, if needed, involving others or the church.
5. Overlook Minor Offenses – Proverbs 19:11 and 18:19 highlight patience and discretion in letting go of small slights.
6. Love Covers Over Sins – 1 Peter 4:8 reminds us that love conceals wrongdoing.
7. Avoid Retaliation – Romans 12:17-19 instructs against taking revenge, trusting God’s justice.

Examples from Scripture

• Cain and Abel (Genesis 4): Offense without repentance led to violence.
• Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 37-50): Joseph forgave them, saying God used their offense for good.
• Jesus and the Pharisees: Their offense prevented them from receiving truth.

The “Spirit of Offense”

While not a biblical term, the “spirit of offense” describes a state of bitterness and resentment that can trap both the offended and the offender. Hebrews 12:15 warns against a “root of bitterness” that defiles many.

In summary: Jesus and the Bible teach that offense is inevitable, but how we respond—through forgiveness, humility, and love—shapes our character and our relationship with God. Offense can be a trap, but it can also be a call to deeper compassion and reconciliation.