1. Why do people get offended?
2. What are some examples of when you offended someone?
3. What are some examples of when you were offended by someone?
Scriptures:
14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 1 Pet 4:14-16
1. What happens to us when people mock us or hurt us for being a Christian?
2. Do we get credit for suffering for doing bad things?
7 He who corrects a scoffer gets dishonor for himself, And he who reproves a wicked man gets insults for himself. 8 Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you, Reprove a wise man and he will love you. 9 Give instruction to a wise man and he will be still wiser, Teach a righteous man and he will increase his learning. 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. 11 For by me your days will be multiplied, And years of life will be added to you. 12 If you are wise, you are wise for yourself, And if you scoff, you alone will bear it. Pro. 9:7-12
1. How should we interact with those who are living in darkness? Should we correct their wicked ways?
2. How is a wise man different from an evil person?
3. As a Christian, should we be open to correction from other Christians?
4. What happens to those who seek out the wisdom and understanding of God?
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40 If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. 41 Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. 42 Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Mat. 5:43-48
1. How are we to respond to bullies at school?
2. How are we to treat our enemies?
3. What is the benefit we receive if we love our enemies?
4. If evil people love each other, how is the love of God different?
Major Truth: Being offended is a huge issue in America today. As Christians, we are to be unoffendable. The purpose for this is to share God’s love with those who offend and the result of that selfless love results in eternal life. Peace, contentment, and joy are also the fruit of not becoming offended by others. Bitterness, anger, and wrath are the fruit of offence.