“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe to stumble, it would be better for him if, with a heavy millstone hung around his neck, he had been cast into the sea. – Mark 9:42 (NASB)
Sharing the gospel is a serious responsibility. It’s worth asking if your life reflects your beliefs; whether your lifestyle strengthens your testimony or weakens it, causing others to stumble. Equally important is whether you study the word of God so you have clarity on what scripture commands us to do, or instead you toss the Word of God out loosely so it is misapplied by others?
How much does your life and teaching cause others to stumble? The conviction of our faith in Christ should prompt us to seek him in a deeper, more intimate way. As a follower of Christ we need to seek to live out our life as a witness to him and not our own desires. Jesus tells us in this passage to identify the things in your life that might cause others to stumble in their faith and eliminate them from your life.
Ultimately we will be held accountable for people we cause to stumble, people we drive from faith instead of helping them grow deeper in their relationship with Christ. That is what Jesus stated at the end of this passage in John. If we lose our ability to “season” others lives, to impact them for Christ, how can we be continue to be a credible witness for Jesus. Instead we may end up driving them away from Christ.
“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.” – 2 Cor 9:50
© 2020, CGThelen
140 Character Christian 
Yes, each of us has a responsibility to check ourselves in order not to place an obstacle in the path of a brother or sister in Christ. While the consequences will be worse for the preachers, teachers and other church leaders, it applies to every member of the body of Christ. Thank You for pointing this out.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this topic. Blessings.
Oh, Lord; may I ever be faithful to Thee!
Ps 69.6 Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord GOD of hosts, be ashamed for my sake: let not those that seek thee be confounded for my sake, O God of Israel.
Great verse to add. Yes, may we always have a heart for God, a deep desire to follow Him. May he fill us with His wisdom. Thanks for the comment. Blessings.
This is a great reminder. It is especially a powerful warning to certain members of the clergy.
It’s a sobering thought that reminds me of 1 Peter 5:8: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
For sure ! It is just when we are not alert, and complacent, that the attacks come.
So true. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Blessings.