Causing Others to Sin

In the previous post, I highlighted a nameless man who was casting out demons in Jesus' name. The disciples told him to stop but Jesus rebuked them and affirmed this bold individual in Mark 9:39-41. The very next verse Jesus says, "If anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around his neck" (v.42). Those are serious and extreme words Jesus uses. Although "little ones" may be referring to the young children from verse 37, it seems more likely that he is talking about those with child-like faith like the man who cast out demons. If the latter is the case, the sin that the disciples may have been causing this man to fall in could be disobedience, fear, and unbelief. Imagine this person seeing Jesus minister and receiving revelation from his teaching. Having his faith ignited, he takes a risk and starts to do what Jesus did! He must have been pretty excited to set people free from oppression and undo the works of the enemy. Then along come the apostles and they rebuke him for what he is doing. I wonder how this man reacted. What if he so respected the disciples that he immediately ceased casting out demons and ministering to others? The very thing Jesus wanted people to do, his followers were discouraging! It is no wonder Jesus used such a harsh warning for those who cause others to sin.

Apparently this is better than causing a little one to sin

It would seem that the Church throughout history has acted more like the disciples than this anonymous man. We have been more concerned with rules and judgment while missing the true heart of Jesus. Our responsibility is to encourage the "little ones" to do big things for God. What would happen if Christians heard testimonies of Christ and started doing the same things with child-like faith? There would be a global revolution. I believe it is happening in our generation.

“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.” Mark 9:50