In the book of Luke, chapter 17, in verse 4, we can see Jesus talking about something that we experience daily in our daily lives: the coexistence that exists in our times and what we must teach as children of God.
The Master addresses his disciples about those who cause some of His followers to stumble and passes judgment on them. However, it is important to note that Master makes it clear that it is inevitable that we will face obstacles in our lives. Now, let us examine who are the ones that cause a servant of the Lord to fall. In the words of Jesus:
And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.
Luke 17:4
This verse, present in this article, makes things very clear. Whoever causes one of Jesus’ younger followers to stumble would be better off tying a stone around his neck and throwing himself into the sea. This warning from the Master reminds us that it is one thing to be tested by God himself, but it is unacceptable for a brother or someone who does not know God to allow the enemy to use his influence to bring down a servant of the Lord.
It is important to respond to this call that the Lord makes us. We must fulfill the words that Jesus has given us. If our brother sins against us seven times a day and seven times he returns seeking forgiveness, we should not hesitate to forgive him and pray to the Lord for his life, to help him discard everything that is not to his liking.
Therefore, brothers in Christ, we must understand that we face trials on a daily basis. Let us pray to the Lord that he will have mercy on those who are weak and under the influence of the enemy. Do not doubt that God can forgive them.
Forgiveness is one of the most challenging teachings that Jesus left to His followers. It goes against human logic, pride, and the natural desire for justice according to our own understanding. However, the Lord calls us to live according to a higher standard, one that reflects His mercy, patience, and love. Forgiving repeatedly does not mean approving sin, but rather demonstrating the grace that God Himself shows us every day.
We must remember that we were once lost and needed forgiveness. Each believer has experienced the mercy of God, who forgives not just once, but continually when there is genuine repentance. In this sense, Jesus invites us to become instruments of reconciliation, restoring broken relationships instead of deepening wounds. When we forgive, we free our hearts from bitterness and allow God to work both in us and in those who have failed.
At the same time, Christ warns us about the seriousness of being a stumbling block to others. Our words, attitudes, and actions can either build up or destroy the faith of those around us. As believers, we must walk carefully, knowing that our testimony has a powerful impact. Causing spiritual harm, whether intentionally or through negligence, is something the Lord takes very seriously.
Daily coexistence will inevitably bring conflicts, misunderstandings, and offenses. Living in community requires humility, patience, and a heart willing to forgive. Jesus does not deny the existence of offenses; instead, He teaches us how to respond to them. Forgiveness becomes a spiritual discipline that strengthens our faith and reflects the character of Christ in us.
Let us also understand that forgiving does not mean ignoring justice or wisdom. It means entrusting the situation to God, who judges righteously. Through prayer, we can ask the Lord to heal our hearts, correct those who are wrong, and guide everyone involved toward repentance and restoration. Forgiveness opens the door for God to act where human strength fails.
In conclusion, Luke 17:4 reminds us that the Christian life is marked by mercy and perseverance. We are called to forgive repeatedly, to guard our actions so that we do not cause others to stumble, and to rely on God’s grace in every trial. May the Lord give us hearts that resemble His own, full of compassion, patience, and unwavering love for one another.