Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the concept of "stumbling" and "stumbling-block" is rich with spiritual and moral implications. The terms are often used metaphorically to describe obstacles that lead individuals away from righteousness and faithfulness to God. The imagery of stumbling is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, serving as a warning against actions or influences that cause believers to falter in their spiritual walk.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for stumbling-block is "mikshol," which refers to an obstacle or hindrance. The concept is often associated with idolatry and sin. For instance, in Leviticus 19:14, the Israelites are commanded, "You must not curse the deaf or place a stumbling block before the blind, but you are to fear your God. I am the LORD." Here, the physical act of placing a stumbling block is prohibited, symbolizing the broader moral imperative to avoid causing others to fall into sin. The prophets frequently used the imagery of stumbling to describe Israel's spiritual failures. In Isaiah 8:14-15, the Lord is described as "a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to both houses of Israel, as a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. Many will stumble over these; they will fall and be broken; they will be ensnared and captured." This passage highlights the consequences of rejecting God's ways, where the very foundation meant to support becomes a cause for downfall. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "skandalon" is often translated as "stumbling-block." Jesus Himself is described as a stumbling block to those who reject Him. In Romans 9:32-33, Paul writes, "Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith, but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written: 'See, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, and the one who believes in Him will never be put to shame.'" Here, Christ is the cornerstone of faith, yet He becomes a stumbling block to those who seek righteousness through their own efforts rather than through faith. The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of causing others to stumble in matters of conscience. In 1 Corinthians 8:9, he advises, "Be careful, however, that your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak." This admonition underscores the responsibility of believers to act in love and consideration, ensuring that their actions do not lead others into sin or confusion. Moral and Ethical Implications The concept of a stumbling block extends beyond individual sin to encompass broader ethical considerations within the Christian community. Believers are called to live in a manner that edifies others and promotes spiritual growth. In Romans 14:13, Paul exhorts, "Therefore let us stop judging one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way." The teachings of Jesus further emphasize the severity of causing others to stumble. In Matthew 18:6, He warns, "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." This stark imagery highlights the grave responsibility of leading others, particularly the vulnerable, in paths of righteousness. Conclusion The biblical theme of stumbling and stumbling-blocks serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual vigilance required of believers. It calls for a life of faith, humility, and love, ensuring that one's actions and teachings align with the truth of the Gospel and do not lead others astray. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 19:14You shall not curse the deaf, nor put a stumbling block before the blind, but shall fear your God: I am the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 119:165 Greek 4625. skandalon -- a stick for bait (of a trap), generally a snare ... ... stumbling block. ... ie Snare (figuratively, cause of displeasure or sin) -- occasion to fall (of stumbling), offence, thing that offends, stumblingblock. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4625.htm - 8k 4348. proskomma -- a stumbling, an occasion of stumbling Strong's Hebrew 4383. mikshol -- a stumbling, means or occasion of stumbling, a ...... a stumbling, means or occasion of stumbling, a stumbling block. Transliteration: mikshol or mikshol Phonetic Spelling: (mik-shole') Short Definition: block. ... /hebrew/4383.htm - 6k 4384. makshelah -- something overthrown, a stumbling block 1848. dophi -- a blemish, fault 6330. puqah -- tottering, staggering Library Peter as a Stumbling-Block to Jesus. My Spirit Bows in Adoration to the Cross, which is a Stumbling ... How Brother Conrad of Offida Converted a Young Brother, who was a ... The Very Simplicity of God's Means of Working, a Stumbling-Block ... The Little Ones and their Stumbling-Blocks. Where There is Only one Woman, the Father Does not Make a Stay ... The Offending Hand, or Foot, or Eye. When Confessing the Divinity of Christ we Ought not to Pass Over ... Christ Crucified is an Offence and Foolishness to those who ... In what Sense "Necessary. " Resources What does it mean that we are not to cause others to stumble? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Job's Daughters program? | GotQuestions.org I overcame _______ sin. How can I avoid a relapse? | GotQuestions.org Stumbling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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