"Causing Another to Sin"

Matthew 18:6 tells us, "But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
7 "Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes!" (NKJV)
Reading the context of Matthew 18:1-6 we see the Lord made very clear the child-like quality He wanted to impress on his followers.

We know without a doubt that Jesus did not call his disciples to to a life of immaturity. No, He used the child as an example of humility (the word He uses means penitent or lowliness).

The disciples had just asked the Lord "Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" Jesus called a small child to stand among them and said, "Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven."

The kingdom is made up of people who have the child-like qualities of humility. Then Jesus gave them a strong warning that if anyone causes one of these little ones (a believer) in the kingdom (not a physical child) to stumble in their Christian walk, then we have become a tool of Satan.

Christ told them that a horrible death would be the consequence of causing another believer to stumble or sin.

Each Christian is part of the body (church) of our Lord. Our actions are never isolated and therefore, our actions of good and evil affects the health and vitality of other believers.

God wants for his children to love one another, a love that has real, noticeable effects in the church.  
Remember what the apostle Paul said to Timothy;

1 Timothy 4:15-16 "Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all. 16 Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you." (NKJV)

Therefore, Jesus is telling us that since the believer is identified and is in relationship with the Savior in whom he trusts, any activity (good or bad) expressed toward that believer is directed toward Jesus as well.

We have been instructed to be an example in many passages but Paul sums it up in his advice to Timothy.

"Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe." (I Tim. 4:12)

Let's look at the areas in which Timothy was to be an example:

"In word"- In his speech. Ephesians 4:29- "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."

This would include profanity, evil speaking, gossip and tale bearing are all condemned by the Word of God.

"In conversation"- that is 'in our manner of life'. Are we living like we have been renewed in The Holy Spirit of God, or are we living like we are part of the world?

"In charity"- in love.  We should show love for all, both friend and enemy; those who love us and those who despitefully use us. Matthew 5:44 & Matthew 22:37-39.

"In spirit"- Must have a zeal for the Lord.  1 Corinthians 15:58, "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (NKJV)

"In faith"- Two possible meanings. Unswerving trust and confidence in God. Fidelity and trustworthiness. Both of these concepts are important to the Christian.

"In purity"- Morally pure and pure in conduct. Matthew 5:8- "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."

God desires that we be a blessing to others, not a hindrance or an obstacle. It is of eternal consequence as to how we express our love to those who so desperately need the salvation we treasure.

Colossians 3:17 "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." (NKJV)

God bless and may your life be a blessing to all others...