The phrase “don’t be a stumbling block” is often heard, but what does it really mean? In the Bible, it refers to actions that might lead others astray or weaken their faith. It’s a reminder to be mindful of how our behaviors impact those around us, especially in matters of faith. Let’s see how Scripture guides us to avoid being a stumbling block in others’ spiritual journeys.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Crying During Worship
What Does The Bible Say About Being A Stumbling Block
Matthew 18:7
Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come!
This verse warns about the consequences of being a stumbling block to others. It emphasizes the responsibility we have to avoid leading others astray or causing them to stumble in their faith.
As Christians, we should be mindful of our actions and words, ensuring that they do not become stumbling blocks for others. Instead, we should strive to be a source of encouragement, support, and guidance.
Romans 14:13
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.
This verse reminds us to refrain from passing judgment on fellow believers and to avoid placing stumbling blocks or obstacles in their spiritual journey.
As Christians, we should focus on fostering an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and understanding within the community of believers, encouraging one another in faith rather than hindering their progress with judgment or negative influence.
1 Corinthians 8:9
Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.
In this verse, Paul advises us to be cautious not to let our freedom in Christ become a stumbling block for those who are weaker in faith.
While it is important to exercise our rights and freedoms as Christians, we should do so with sensitivity and consideration for those who may be easily influenced or whose faith is still growing. Our actions should always prioritize the edification and well-being of others.
1 Corinthians 10:32
Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God.
This verse teaches us to be mindful of our actions and words, making sure not to cause anyone to stumble, regardless of their background or beliefs.
As followers of Christ, we should strive to be inclusive, respectful, and sensitive to the diverse perspectives and experiences of others, avoiding any behavior that might hinder their spiritual journey or relationship with God.
Matthew 5:29
If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.
This powerful metaphor highlights the importance of radical self-discipline and the willingness to eliminate anything that may lead us astray.
While the verse is not advocating for self-harm, it emphasizes the need to take drastic measures if there are habits, relationships, or influences in our lives that are hindering our spiritual growth and causing us to stumble in our walk with God.
Luke 17:1
Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come.”
Here, Jesus acknowledges that stumbling blocks will exist, but He also warns against being the source of them.
As followers of Christ, we should be vigilant in avoiding behaviors, attitudes, and actions that could become stumbling blocks for others. Instead, we should strive to be a positive influence, pointing others toward faith, love, and righteousness.
1 Peter 2:8
They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for.
This verse speaks about those who stumble because they choose to disobey the message of God.
It serves as a reminder that our faith and obedience to God’s Word are essential in navigating our spiritual journey. We should strive to live in accordance with His teachings, avoiding disobedience that can cause us and others to stumble.
Mark 9:42
If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.
Jesus emphasizes the severity of causing others to stumble, especially those who are young and impressionable in their faith.
As believers, we should be mindful of our influence on children, new believers, or those who are vulnerable in their faith, making sure that we set a positive example and diligently protect them from stumbling.
1 Corinthians 1:23
but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.
This verse acknowledges that the message of the Gospel can be a stumbling block to some, particularly to those who do not believe or understand it.
As Christians, we should be prepared for the rejection, skepticism, or resistance that may arise when we share our faith. Nevertheless, we must remain steadfast, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to soften hearts and overcome any stumbling blocks.
Isaiah 8:14
He will become a sanctuary; but for both houses of Israel he will be a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall. And for the people of Jerusalem he will be a trap and a snare.
This prophecy in Isaiah refers to Jesus, who would be a stumbling block for some and a source of salvation for others.
As Christians, we recognize that our faith and commitment to Christ may be a stumbling block to those who reject Him. Nevertheless, we are called to continue living out our faith, sharing the message of salvation, and trusting God to work in the hearts of those who stumble.
Romans 9:32-33
Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone. As it is written: “See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who believes in him will never be put to shame.”
This passage reflects on the stumbling block that Jesus became for those who pursued righteousness based on their own works, rather than through faith in Him.
It serves as a reminder that our salvation is not achieved through our own efforts, but through faith in Christ alone. We should be cautious not to rely on our own works for acceptance before God but instead embrace the grace and redemption found in Jesus.
Romans 14:20
Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble.
Paul emphasizes that although all food is clean, believers should be willing to abstain from certain things if it causes others to stumble in their faith.
Love and consideration for our brothers and sisters in Christ should guide our actions, encouraging us to prioritize their spiritual well-being over personal preferences or liberties.
1 John 2:10
Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble.
This verse highlights the connection between love for others and living in the light, free from stumbling blocks.
When we genuinely love and care for our fellow believers, our words and actions will reflect that love, and we will seek to build them up rather than causing them to stumble. Love should be our guiding principle in all our interactions.
Proverbs 4:12
When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble.
Proverbs offers wisdom regarding the benefits of living a righteous and godly life.
As we commit ourselves to following God’s ways, striving for righteousness, and seeking His guidance, we will find stability and assurance, protected from stumbling and walking confidently in His path.
Psalm 17:5
My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not stumbled.
This verse expresses the psalmist’s commitment to walking in God’s ways and the assurance that by doing so, he has been kept from stumbling.
When we wholeheartedly follow God’s commands and seek to live a life that honors Him, He will guide and protect our steps, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges without stumbling.
Psalm 94:18
When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me.
In times of weakness or when we feel like we are about to stumble, this psalm reminds us that God’s unfailing love is there to support and strengthen us.
When we turn to Him, acknowledging our need for His help, He will provide the grace and support we need to overcome any stumbling blocks we may encounter on our journey of faith.
Proverbs 3:23-24
Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
This passage assures us that when we walk in God’s wisdom and follow His guidance, He will protect us from stumbling and grant us peace and security.
Trusting in the Lord and aligning our steps with His will enable us to experience His peace and rest, free from fear and anxiety.
Psalm 66:9
He has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping.
As believers, we can testify to God’s faithfulness in protecting us from stumbling and preserving our lives.
Whether through His provision, guidance, or divine intervention, God keeps our feet firm and secure, guarding us from the snares and stumbling blocks that might otherwise hinder our spiritual journey.
Proverbs 4:26-27
Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.
This verse encourages us to carefully consider the paths we walk and to remain steadfast in our commitment to righteousness.
By staying focused on God’s Word, avoiding distractions and temptations, and intentionally aligning our steps with His ways, we can safeguard ourselves from stumbling and straying from the path of righteousness.
Psalm 119:165
Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
The psalmist attests to the peace that comes from loving and obeying God’s law, noting that those who do not stumble.
When we prioritize our love for God’s Word and live in accordance with His commands, we will experience a deep sense of peace, guidance, and protection that guards us from stumbling and leads us into a life of spiritual vitality.
Proverbs 16:17
The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.
This verse highlights the importance of choosing the path of righteousness and guarding our ways to preserve our lives.
By intentionally avoiding evil and staying committed to upright living, we can protect ourselves from stumbling into sin or being led astray by the stumbling blocks that exist in the world.
2 Peter 1:10
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble,
This verse encourages believers to diligently live out their faith, making every effort to confirm their calling and election in Christ.
By actively pursuing a deeper relationship with God, growing in faith, and intentionally aligning our lives with His will, we can walk in confidence, knowing that we will not stumble but will continue to grow and bear fruit in our spiritual journey.
Proverbs 29:18
Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.
This verse highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and revelation from God to avoid casting off restraint and stumbling.
When we earnestly seek God’s guidance and rely on His wisdom, He will lead us in the paths of righteousness, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with discernment and avoiding the stumbling blocks that can distract or derail us from our faith.