I will start by saying that the Lord demands holiness. There is no leniency for sin in the life of the believer. We are talmid, disciples, a royal priesthood, sons, and daughters of the living, holy perfect God. While we will fall short, and there is abundant grace for that, we are called to pursue righteousness at all costs. That said, today’s passage is not focused on our own pursuit of holiness, but the impact of our choices on those around us.

In our culture, we tend to look at sin as an individual issue - personal, private actions that the Lord is convicting us on and helping us overcome, but this passage and scripture as a whole, show that the cost of sin is more than personal death, it can lead to the death and stumbling of others.

As you read and ponder today’s text, I ask that you explore the cost of sin and pray that the Lord continues to sanctify you so that His kingdom may be expanded and His holiness is known.

I also ask that as we move throughout our week, we consider the glory of God in our actions and responses.

Sometimes times even the little things like refraining from laughing at something funny can embody the full glory and beauty of Jesus.

Jonathan Kalis

[Luke17:1-4]

17 And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. 3 Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, 4 and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ What are we sure to face throughout our lives?

+ What must we do as disciples when it comes to setting an example?

+ Does this passage say we are to do this alone?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ What is the area of your life in which you are not bringing glory to your God?

+ How could you better respond in that situation or relationship that reflects the holiness and beauty of God?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Is there anyone that I have been a poor example to, someone I have reflected a smaller image of Jesus to, to whom you must repent?

+ Are there any brothers or sisters you are walking with that you believe are acting in a way that is setting a poor example of what it means to be a discipline of Jesus whom you could lovingly, and with care, call out?