Handling Temptation

Living in Covenant

A Heart-felt Covenant

Live in the light of God (Isaiah 2:5) 

Jesus Teaches about Fulfilling the Law

Mark 9:42-48 New International Version

Causing to Stumble

42 “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea. 43 If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. [44] [a] 45 And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two feet and be thrown into hell. [46] [b] 47 And if your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, 48 where
“‘the worms that eat them do not die,
    and the fire is not quenched.’[c]

For Reflection

Jesus realizes the power of his teaching if misused. Just as he was tempted to use his power for self-aggrandizing ends, others will surely succumb to the seduction.  The very graphic language he uses emphasizes that the consequences intended or unintended would undermine confidence in the Gospel message. Jesus asks his disciples not to be so concerned with threats from outside the community of believers. Instead, he cautions the followers to be aware of how they might be undermining the faith of people inside their community.

Pray

Pray so that you will be more aware of how your actions, performed in the name of Jesus Christ, inhibit one's Christian maturity rather than encourage it.

Note: Dyed silk banner by students at the Presbyterian Association of Musicians, Montreat, NC, 2019
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