The Offense of the Gospel

There is a great irony about the gospel: it is good news, but it offends many people. Why was Jesus crucified? Because the Bible calls Him a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to those who do not believe. As the gospel message continues to be proclaimed throughout the world, Jesus says, “Blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” Those who believe in Jesus Christ are not offended by Him, and God acquits them of all charges with a verdict of “not guilty.” Believers see Jesus for who He truly is: one who is gentle and lowly in heart, who does not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Blessed are those who are not offended by Him.  Take Home Message: The gospel offers us a choice: offended or acquitted. -       The gospel exposes our rebellion (1-3). -       The gospel magnifies God’s righteousness (4-7). -       The gospel tears down our religion (8-9). -       The gospel pleads for our repentance (10).