EPISODE 07
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At first it seems like an innocent, even a potentially pleasant request for prayer. But it quickly becomes intensely awkward the more it is explained. It raises a controversial decision on a controversial matter. All kinds of issues are stirred up whether spoken or not. Something that should be helpful becomes a stumbling block for everyone concerned. How could things have gone differently, so that instead of people stumbling, they could have been strengthened in holiness?
While we may not experience exactly the same situation, similar circumstances often arise from people thoughtlessly casting obstacles in the way of other people’s spiritual progress. If we can learn how to handle this situation, it will guide us when similar things happen in our own experience.
The Concerning Scandal podcast applies the biblical principles of avoiding spiritual harm by looking at the real-life scenarios in which stumbling blocks arise. We can use the spiritual wisdom of James Durham’s classic book in situations we are all too familiar with.
To find out more, visit www.concerningscandal.com
FURTHER HELP
In the Bible offence not the same as making someone displeased. Rather it is something that causes them to stumble in their spiritual progress or offend against God’s Word. We can do this without meaning to do it. It also happens when we do and say the right things in the wrong way or at the wrong time and so turn people against what is right. To explore this issue further, you may find it helpful to read the article The Worst Kind of Offence in an “I’m Offended” Culture. George Gillespie describes as briefly as possible the various dimensions of the biblical principle of not causing others to offend against God’s Word.
GET THE BOOK
In The Scandal of Stumbling Blocks, James Durham helps us to consider this vital issue deeply by defining the nature of stumbling as well as showing its serious consequences. He looks in considerable detail at different kinds of stumbling and identifies the ways that people can stumble and be stumbled. Durham provides practical advice for avoiding and preventing offence.
Now edited in modern English, Durham’s classic treatment on considerate Christianity can be used to edify a new generation.