It seems many are searching today for an unoffensive religion. One that is all inclusive, non-confrontational, and non-judgmental. Jesus is recast into a mold of complete gentleness and acceptance. Preaching is simply “feel good,” designed to satisfy what people want to hear. Paul warned Timothy of this even back when the church wasn’t far from inception;

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths” (2 Tim. 4:3-4).

However, the Author of true Christianity was one who offended many people. Jesus offended the residents of his hometown Nazareth by his wisdom and miracles. “And they took offense at him” (Matt. 13:57). Jesus’ exposure of false religious traditions certainly did not please people. The disciples, apparently concerned about Jesus’ popularity, came to him and asked, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this?” (Matt. 15:12). And even Jesus’ answer to the disciples’ question would have many calling Him insensitive or intolerant. He says, “Every plant which My heavenly Father did not plant shall be uprooted. Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit.” (Matt. 15:13-14)

Again, in Luke 11 Jesus doesn’t hold back to save the feelings of the Pharisees (Read Luke 11:37-44). After Jesus had denounced the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, an expert in the Law answered him, “Teacher, when you say these things, you insult us also” (Luke 11:45). And when we continue reading we see that Jesus does not try to save their feelings either. Jesus, knowing the hearts of men, boldly accused the Jewish leaders of being “sons of hell,” “whitewashed tombs,” and a “brood of vipers” (Matt. 23:15, 27, 33).

Don’t mistake forgiveness for tolerance. Jesus is one who will forgive our sins and trespasses but He will not tolerate them.

The Christian life will not be void of confrontation and judgment calls. Being faithful to the Lord may bring you difficulty in the classroom, at work, at home, and maybe even in the church (see Matt. 10:17-39)! Instead of looking to win popularity contests or being people pleasers, let us set our sights on pleasing the Father. Because if there is any offense we should really concern ourselves with it should be that of offending our heavenly Father, the only one who can destroy both body and soul.

Don’t let tolerance for evil cast you away from what is truly good. Don’t let worrying about being offensive to some stop you from standing up to confess Christ. Christ is here for you not for sin.