We live in an offensive world. Jesus warned us that we would. It is important that we acquire a skillset that is resilient against offense. In this episode of Breaking Bread, Craig Stickling outlines what this looks like for the believer.

Show Notes:

"Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!" ~ Jesus (Matthew 18:7)

The word offense, in this podcast, means much more than being insulted or irritated. It is a sin against another person. Such a sin committed against another causes a painful wound. If this wound goes unhealed, the potential for serious infection exists. This infection can lead to bitterness, anger, and if left untreated, produce rebellion against God and others in our hearts.

As believers, we can shed offenses against us and live free from the damage offense brings. To do so, we:

• Understand that we both offend and are offended. We are thankful for Christ's forgiveness.
• Understand Satan to be the real enemy. We can view the offender with a measure of grace.
• Extend forgiveness by giving the offense to Christ who paid for it on the cross.

Living in an offensive world will bring Christ near because he is so desperately needed.