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Luke 17:1-2 Caution: Stumbling block ahead

Good evening fellow bondservants,

Sorry for late posting.  Sundays seem to be a busy day, but in a good way.  

Having been in Navy and then in nuclear power industry, rules and regulations are a very big deal.  The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) writes the regulations and then writes another document that gives a method of meeting the regulation.  Jesus gives us principles and then lives them out.  Such is the case in today's passage from Doctor Luke,

Blessings

Jeff

 In four short verses Jesus gives universal warnings to  the disciples concerning the challenges of life within the group.   Jesus recognizes that the disciples will sin against each other and will tempt or cause each other to stumble.  Even though they follow a sinless master, the disciples will not reach sinless perfection.  So how are they to live with each other?

They must never treat tempting others (or placing a stumbling block or trap) as a small matter or make excuses for it.  When we were dead in our sin, we picked up some nasty habits.  For example, figuring out the weaknesses of others and taking advantage of them.  James says we are tempted when we are lured and enticed by sinful desires (1:14).  If we study a brother and discover his "sinful desires" and then lay a trap for him, how can there be anything more evil than that?  We are willfully carrying out the work of the Tempter.  Jesus gives the sternest warning possible.  

Instruction - Each one must ruthlessly deal with tendency to set traps or place stumbling blocks for anyone (believer or unbeliever).  Don't think "Oh I would never do that" or "I didn't mean any harm" or "It was just a joke".

Thanksgiving - Jesus was tempted in every way yet was without sin.  He knows the hearts of his disciples and warns them against Relationships between people are important to the Father. 

Confession - not valuing relationships the way I should.  Guarding, strengthen, protect.  Not loving neighbor.

Petition - Conform me to the image of Jesus.  "little ones" are not just children.  The true light would shine in my heart and drive out darkness. 


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