LIVING ABOVE OFFENCES
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 17:1-5
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 19:11, Matthew 18:7, Psalm 119:165, Colossians 3:13, Romans 12:17-21
INTRODUCTION:
Offences are an inevitable part of life. Jesus clearly stated in Luke 17:1 that offences will come, meaning no believer is exempt from being offended. However, while we cannot always control what others do to us, we can choose how we respond. Living above offences is not weakness—it is spiritual maturity and strength in action.
Offences can become tools in the hands of the enemy to derail destinies, divide relationships, break churches, and steal peace. A heart that harbours offence becomes a breeding ground for bitterness, unforgiveness, and spiritual stagnation. That is why we are called to guard our hearts diligently and forgive quickly.
To live above offences is to rise above the traps set by people and situations. It is to see through the lens of Christ—who, even while on the cross, said, “Father, forgive them.” Let us learn how to adopt this Christlike posture in our daily walk.
1. OFFENCES ARE INEVITABLE IN LIFE
Jesus warned that offences will surely come, but we must be prepared to handle them with spiritual maturity.
a) Luke 17:1 – Offences Must Come
Every believer must understand that offences are part of human interaction and spiritual growth.
b) Matthew 18:7 – Woe to the One Through Whom They Come
We must avoid being the source of offences to others.
c) John 16:1 – So You Won’t Be Offended
Jesus taught to prepare us so our faith is not shaken when offences arise.
d) 2 Timothy 3:12 – Persecution and Mistreatment Are Part of Godly Living
Believers must not take offence when wronged for righteousness' sake.
Biblical Example: Joseph was betrayed by his brothers but refused to hold offence; instead, he chose forgiveness (Genesis 50:19–21).
2. OFFENCES CAN HINDER SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND DESTINY
Unforgiveness and bitterness can choke the Word of God and derail your destiny.
a) Hebrews 12:15 – Bitterness Defiles Many
Allowing offence to fester poisons your heart and relationships.
b) Proverbs 18:19 – A Brother Offended Is Harder to Win
Offence breaks fellowship and builds emotional walls.
c) Mark 6:3 – Offence Blocks the Flow of Miracles
The people of Nazareth missed Jesus' blessings because of offence.
d) Galatians 5:7 – Who Hindered You?
Offence can slow or stop your spiritual progress.
Biblical Example: Ahithophel became bitter against David and died in offence rather than reconciling (2 Samuel 17:23).
3. LIVING ABOVE OFFENCE REQUIRES FORGIVENESS AND LOVE
Forgiveness is a command, not a suggestion, and it’s the antidote to offence.
a) Colossians 3:13 – Forgive as the Lord Forgave You
If God forgave you freely, you must forgive others quickly.
b) Ephesians 4:31-32 – Let Go of All Bitterness and Wrath
Offences must be intentionally released to keep your spirit free.
c) Proverbs 10:12 – Love Covers All Offences
The love of God helps you overlook wrongs without resentment.
d) 1 Peter 4:8 – Love Covers a Multitude of Sins
The deeper your love walk, the easier it becomes to overcome offences.
Biblical Example: Stephen prayed for his killers while being stoned, showing a heart free from offence (Acts 7:59-60).
4. DEVELOPING A STRONG SPIRIT HELPS YOU RISE ABOVE OFFENCE
A spiritually mature believer is not easily provoked or discouraged by offence.
a) Proverbs 24:10 – If You Faint in the Day of Adversity, Your Strength Is Small
A strong spirit empowers you to stand when people hurt or betray you.
b) Psalm 119:165 – Great Peace Have Those Who Love Your Law, and Nothing Offends Them
Deep love for God's Word protects your heart from offence.
c) Isaiah 26:3 – Perfect Peace Comes to Those Whose Mind Is Stayed on God
Fixing your eyes on God prevents distraction by offence.
d) Romans 12:21 – Overcome Evil with Good
Living above offence requires actively responding in love and grace.
Biblical Example: Jesus, despite being mocked and crucified unjustly, asked the Father to forgive His offenders (Luke 23:34).
CONCLUSION:
Offences are part of life, especially for those walking with God. However, they don’t have to control or hinder you. You have the power through the Holy Spirit to live above them. Choosing forgiveness, embracing love, and strengthening your inner man are keys to a life free from the trap of offence.
Living above offence doesn’t mean ignoring wrongs but choosing not to be imprisoned by them. It is a mark of spiritual maturity, a sign of Christ-likeness, and a pathway to peace and progress. Let go of every offence and embrace the freedom that comes from walking in love.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me grace to live above every offence.
2. Father, help me to forgive those who have hurt me deeply.
3. Holy Spirit, strengthen my inner man to overlook offences.
4. Let every root of bitterness in my heart be uprooted by fire.
5. Lord, help me to walk daily in love and peace with others.
