This message continues the series by emphasizing that the real war is internal, not external. It’s easier to blame others, but spiritual maturity demands we examine ourselves.
Recap of Parts 1 & 2:
* Tradition: Keeps us stuck in the past, resistant to change, and limits God's move.
* Religion: Focuses on form over transformation, blocks God's power, and prioritizes appearance over relationship.
Part 3: Offense – A Trap That Derails Destiny
Key Scripture:
Luke 17:1 (NKJV) – "It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come."
Jesus makes it clear: Offenses are unavoidable, but how we handle them is our responsibility.
What Is Offense?
* Offense is a satanic trap (Greek: skandalon – a baited trap).
* It is designed to steal your blessings, destroy relationships, fracture churches, and delay your destiny.
* When you're offended, you get stuck in time – emotionally and spiritually frozen in the moment of the hurt.
Common Sources of Offense:
* Small slights (someone didn’t speak to you).
* Misunderstandings.
* Betrayals, disappointments, or unmet expectations.
* Even hearing a sermon on a topic like tithing or truth can offend people.
Key Insights:
1. You control whether you get offended.
* Offense is a choice.
* Don’t let small things derail your faith.
2. Offense poisons your perception.
* You start seeing people through the lens of past hurts.
* Leads to distrust, bitterness, and judgment.
3. Holding on to offense halts your progress.
* You may grow older but regress spiritually.
* Time stops where offense is held onto.
4. Offense is emotional debt.
* Rehearsing the offense is like paying interest on a debt Jesus already canceled.
5. Maturity means letting things go.
* Sensible people overlook offenses (Proverbs 19:11).
* Letting go is taking your power back.
Practical Applications:
* Let it go. Don’t let offenses live rent-free in your heart.
* Don’t magnify small things. Not everything is a personal attack.
* Don’t make life decisions (like relationships) from an offended place. You may miss blessings.
* Don’t let offense silence your calling. Keep serving God despite the hurt.
Offense in the Church:
* Many people leave churches due to offense, not doctrine.
* People get offended by truth (especially about giving, accountability, etc.).
* But don’t confuse offense with conviction—God uses truth to transform.
Closing Call:
* Don’t live your life in spiritual regression.
* Offense is a choice and a trap—one that will steal your future if you let it.
* Release the offense, trust God with your hurt, and move forward into your calling.
In conclusion:Offense is unavoidable, but staying offended is a choice. Let go of the pain, or you’ll forfeit your purpose. Grow in spiritual maturity by refusing to be trapped by the enemy's bait.