OFFENDED BECAUSE OF JESUS

And blessed is the one who is not offended by me. —Luke 7:23

Does Jesus “rub you the wrong way?” Are you insulted or upset because of Him? Do you get angry when someone speaks about Him? If you do, why do you? If you do not believe in Him, why do you get upset when someone speaks about Him? Why is it you would get offended by someone who does not exist if indeed He does not exist? The answer is because He does exist and you do not like what He stands for!

This is clearly seen in the mid-east right now as ISIS is seeking to destroy the Christian community http://video.foxnews.com/v/4141197658001/are-we-witnessing-a-christian-holocaust-begun-in-mideast/?fb_ref=Default#sp=show-clips. What leads people to persecute Christians? If you do not believe or agree with me because I love the Lord Jesus then that is your choice, but would you kill me for it? Well, this is what is happening in the middle-east, Africa and other places. Personally, I have seen that kind of hatred for Jesus in people’s eyes here in the U.S. There is no doubt that if people could get away with it they would kill Christians here in this country as well. That may be the case in the not too distant future if this country keeps sliding down the steep slippery and slimy slope we are on.

Being offended because of Jesus is surely nothing new. Jesus did nothing wrong. He challenged the religious hypocrites. He healed many people and taught truth. Nobody could truly accuse Him of doing anything wrong. It took false witnesses to stir those who wanted to kill Him. The religious leaders were offended because He challenged their hypocrisy. The civil leaders were upset with Him for disturbing their peace. People in general were upset with Him for challenging their sinful behavior and practices. Yes, He offended those who would not admit who He was/is and they were offended because they did not want to acknowledge their own sinfulness and need for a Savior— their need for Him— to be forgiven of their sin.

Are you offended at the Name of Jesus? Or, do you rejoice at His Name? For those of us who know Him, we rejoice! It is a marvel to know the Creator and Sustainer of all things, the One who loves us so much that He was willing to leave the glory of heaven to come to this sin infested planet to die for the sins of man so we might be saved and then He rose on the 3rd day, proving Himself to be the Son of God (Romans 1:4).

Thank You Lord Jesus for the amazing love You have shown us and given us!