Matthew 18
Over the years I have spoken to many
teens and “tweens” who have complained about how strict their parents were
about their entertainment options. Twelve-year-olds have complained that their
parents won’t let them see PG-13 movies. Teens have groused about parents who
don’t let them buy music with explicit lyrics.
Now before you think this a rant about the
entertainment industry or how we entertain ourselves – which are worthwhile
rants, just not the topic of this post – I want to point our attention to
Matthew 18:5-7. Jesus said, “ “Whoever receives one such
child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little
ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to
have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth
of the sea. Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is
necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation
comes!”
Jesus made these comments as he urged
His followers to become like children – the Greek word used here is often for
infants and little children who are completely dependent on their parents and
guardians. The heart and desire of the Christian is to help others experience
God’s love so that they might become dependent on Jesus. This is what is
described as desirable in this passage; that we would learn to walk with Jesus
like a toddler protected and lead by Him.
On the other hand we do not want to
cause these little ones – and here he means small children along with those who
are small in faith – to be tempted to sin. He calls such behavior scandalous
because it trips people as they walk with him. He takes such temptation very
seriously saying, “Woe!” to those who lead others into sin. Indeed, He says it
would be better if they tried to tread water with a millstone necklace than if
they led someone into sin – a foolproof recipe for drowning.
Temptation is serious business. Too
often we treat it with a wink and a nod, or a sly grin. Too easily we allow it
a place in our living rooms, offices, cars, and bedrooms. However, we cannot
get away from it, no matter how hard we try. All we can do is believe like a
child and count on our Lord Jesus to rescue us, which He has done by His death
and resurrection because of His great love for us.
“Lord, take my hand and lead me…” Lead me
safely back to You. Amen.
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