Cause to Sin

Drowning is an horrific way to die.  Being dragged to the bottom of the sea by a millstone is not something a sane person would wish on another.  However, Jesus uses just this illustration as a “better” scenario than leading a child into sin. 

Breaking Down Mark 9:42 - 

What was Jesus discussing? - Temptation and sin and its means of transportation.  Luke 17:1 references temptation being “sure to come”.  The ultimate question was “through whom”.

Who was the subject of Jesus’ teaching? - “Whoever causes” a little one to sin.  In other words, any individual who purposefully leads a child of God into sin.

Who were the victims in the teaching? - The book of Matthew (18:2-6) indicates that Jesus actually had a child stand with him while he taught this truth.  The use of the term “little ones” also points to children or those young and impressionable.  But there is definitely a sense of discipleship since belief in the Lord is used as the marker to identify the little ones. 

What is the conclusion? - If someone has the intention of leading a little one into sin, it would be better for that person to tie a large stone around his neck and drown in the sea rather than to complete his intended action. 

In mathematical terms of desirability:

W(d + s) < W + m + S

where W = whomever, d = little disciple, s = sin, m = millstone and S = sea

A little disciple in sin through whomever is less desirable than whomever with a millstone in the sea.  That would be from the big W’s standpoint particularly. 

So who needs to take note of this equation?  Anyone who would choose to lead a little one into temptation resulting in sin.  Why would anyone do that?  The desire for personal gain - power, greed, etc.  Look at the world and see if there are those that could be identified as leading youth away from God and into sin.  From pulpits to movie screens to slums in third world countries, there are those who lead little ones into sin for personal gain. 

If you find yourself the subject of this teaching - a suggestion:  Change Your Ways.  If you have found yourself in a place of tempting little ones to sin, repent and call upon a merciful God who loves you. 

If you find yourself mocking Jesus’ message, Matthew 18:7-9 explains why the millstone is a better choice.