How Offense Impacts Christian Beliefs and Our Readiness in the End Times
Introduction: The Message of Matthew 24
Matthew 24 is one of the most compelling chapters in the New Testament. In it, Jesus speaks openly to His disciples about the signs of the end times, offering both warnings and hope. Today, as the world grows more divided and uncertain, these words ring louder than ever. Whether you’re troubled by the state of the world, or searching for a way to keep your faith strong, Jesus’ warnings have deep relevance, especially when it comes to the issue of offense.
Jesus’ Warnings: Signs of the End Times
In Matthew 24, Jesus details a series of events that will mark the last days: wars, natural disasters, false prophets, and the rise of lawlessness. Among these warnings, Jesus says, “And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another” (Matthew 24:10, NKJV). This warning about offense may seem simple, but it’s crucial. In days filled with conflict and division—including the rise of Christian nationalism and polarized beliefs—offense becomes a powerful tool the enemy uses to sow discord among believers and communities.
The Danger of Offense: What Does It Mean to Be Offended?
Biblically, to be “offended” is more than just feeling hurt. The Greek word used for offense is “skandalon,” which refers to a trap or snare. Offense is a stumbling block; it’s something that causes us to fall out of step with God’s Spirit. When we take offense—especially over political, cultural, or national issues—we close our hearts, build walls, and make it hard for God’s love to flow through us. In the context of Christian nationalism, offense can twist faith into something that divides rather than unites, making it harder for us to reflect Christ’s love.
Spiritual Consequences: How Offense Blocks God’s Spirit
Offense is dangerous because it blocks God’s work in our lives. When we nurse hurt feelings or cling to anger, we give bitterness a place to grow. This not only fractures relationships; it weakens our faith and stifles the Spirit’s guidance. In a divided world, offense can make us defensive, quick to judge, and slow to forgive—traits that run counter to Jesus’ command to love one another. Offense can even blind us to what God is doing, making us miss opportunities to be His hands and feet.
Staying Ready: Practical Steps to Avoid Offense
· Practice Self-Examination: Regularly ask God to reveal any bitterness or offense in your heart. Psalm 139:23-24 is a good prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart.”
· Embrace Forgiveness: Forgiveness isn’t excusing wrongs—it’s releasing others from the debt we think they owe us. Jesus calls us to forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22).
· Stay Connected: Isolation breeds offense. Stay rooted in a faith community where love and accountability flourish, even when you disagree.
· Show Grace: Remember, we’re all on a journey. Extend the same grace to others that you need from God.
· Focus on the Mission: Don’t let offense distract you from God’s bigger calling—to love Him and love others. When our eyes are on Jesus, petty grievances lose their power.
Conclusion: Encouragement and Hope for Troubled Times
As we look at the signs of the times, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But Jesus’ warnings are not meant to frighten us—they’re meant to prepare us. Offense is a trap, but we don’t have to fall into it. By choosing forgiveness, staying humble, and loving others—even those we disagree with—we keep our hearts open to God’s work. In these turbulent days, let’s be a people marked by unity, not division; by love, not offense. Stay ready, keep your heart free, and trust that God is at work—even in the most challenging times.
Minister A Francine Green, March 2026
afrancinegreen.com 