Luke 17:1

KJV

¶ Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe [unto him], through whom they come!

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} said he {G2036} unto {G4314} the disciples {G3101}, It is {G2076} impossible {G418} but {G3361} that offences {G4625} will come {G2064}: but {G1161} woe {G3759} unto him, through {G1223} whom {G3739} they come {G2064}!

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua said to his talmidim, “It is impossible that snares will not be set. But woe to the person who sets them!

Berean Standard Bible

Jesus said to His disciples, “It is inevitable that stumbling blocks will come, but woe to the one through whom they come!

American Standard Version

And he said unto his disciples, It is impossible but that occasions of stumbling should come; but woe unto him, through whom they come!

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 17:1 captures a solemn declaration from Jesus to His disciples, asserting the unavoidable reality of "offences" or "stumbling blocks" in the world, yet simultaneously pronouncing a severe pronouncement of judgment upon any individual who becomes the instrument through which such spiritual harm arises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a pivotal introduction to a series of profound ethical and spiritual teachings delivered by Jesus to His disciples. It immediately follows the parable of the rich man and Lazarus in [Luke 16](/luke/16 "Luke 16 - The Rich Man and Lazarus"), which concludes with a warning about unheeded divine revelation. The discourse in [Luke 17](/luke/17 "Luke 17 - Teachings on Faith, Forgiveness, and Service") then transitions to practical aspects of Kingdom living, beginning with the gravity of causing others to stumble. Following this declaration, Jesus directly addresses the necessity of radical forgiveness ([Luke 17:3-4](/luke/17-3-4 "Luke 17:3-4 - The Command to Forgive")), the power of faith ([Luke 17:5-6](/luke/17-5-6 "Luke 17:5-6 - The Power of Faith")), and the humble duty of servants ([Luke 17:7-10](/luke/17-7-10 "Luke 17:7-10 - The Duty of Servants")). Thus, [Luke 17:1](/luke/17-1 "Luke 17:1 - The Inevitability of Stumbling Blocks") sets a serious tone, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of those who follow Christ in a fallen world, particularly concerning their influence on the spiritual well-being of others.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Jewish society, communal integrity and adherence to the Law were paramount. The concept of "stumbling" or "causing to sin" carried significant weight, often referring to leading someone astray from the path of righteousness or causing them to violate a divine commandment. The pronouncement of "woe" (οὐαί, _ouai_) was a common prophetic idiom used by Old Testament prophets (e.g., [Isaiah 5:8](/isaiah/5-8 "Isaiah 5:8 - Woes Against Injustice")) to denounce sin and declare divine judgment, often against those who exploited or harmed the vulnerable. Jesus' use of this term would have resonated deeply with His Jewish audience, signaling a grave warning with eschatological implications. The disciples, as future leaders and evangelists, needed to understand the immense spiritual responsibility that came with their position and influence, especially in a world where many would be susceptible to spiritual pitfalls.
* **Key Themes:** [Luke 17:1](/luke/17-1 "Luke 17:1 - The Inevitability of Stumbling Blocks") contributes to several overarching themes within Luke's Gospel and broader New Testament theology. Firstly, it underscores the **reality of evil and sin** in the world, acknowledging that spiritual pitfalls are an unavoidable part of the human experience. Secondly, it highlights the **profound moral accountability** of individuals for their influence on others, especially the vulnerable. This theme is echoed throughout Jesus' teachings, particularly in warnings against harming "little ones" as seen in [Matthew 18:6](/matthew/18-6 "Matthew 18:6 - Warning Against Causing Stumbling Blocks") and [Mark 9:42](/mark/9-42 "Mark 9:42 - Warning Against Causing Stumbling Blocks"). Thirdly, it subtly introduces the theme of **discipleship and ethical living**, challenging followers of Christ to live with intentionality and integrity, ensuring their actions build up rather than tear down the faith of others. This concept is further developed by the Apostle Paul, who frequently urges believers to consider the conscience of their weaker brothers and sisters, as exemplified in [1 Corinthians 8:9-13](/1_corinthians/8-9-13 "1 Corinthians 8:9-13 - Food Offered to Idols and Stumbling Blocks") and [Romans 14:13-23](/romans/14-13-23 "Romans 14:13-23 - Do Not Cause a Brother to Stumble").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **impossible (Greek, _anéndektos'_):** From G418, meaning "unadmitted," or "not supposable." This word conveys an absolute impossibility, indicating that the occurrence of "offences" or "stumbling blocks" is an unavoidable reality in a fallen world. It is not that God wills them, but that given human sinfulness and the presence of evil, they are bound to happen.
* **offences (Greek, _skándalon'_):** From G4625, meaning "a trap-stick (bent sapling), i.e. snare (figuratively, cause of displeasure or sin)." This term refers to anything that causes someone to stumble, fall into sin, or abandon their faith. It's more than a mere annoyance; it's an action, attitude, or situation that leads another person into spiritual harm or moral failure.
* **woe (Greek, _ouaí'_):** From G3759, a primary exclamation of grief, lament, and judgment. This is a powerful interjection signifying severe divine displeasure and impending doom. It is not merely an expression of sorrow, but a pronouncement of condemnation against those who become instruments of spiritual harm.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said he unto the disciples":** This opening phrase establishes the audience for Jesus' profound teaching. It indicates that this warning is specifically directed at those who follow Him, emphasizing their unique responsibility as His representatives and their potential influence on others within the community of faith and beyond.
* **"It is impossible but that offences will come:"** Jesus declares an unavoidable truth about the nature of the world. The phrase "impossible but that" (οὐκ ἀνένδεκτόν ἐστιν μὴ) strongly asserts the certainty of "offences" (σκάνδαλα, _skandala_) appearing. This is a realistic assessment of a world marred by sin, where human weakness, evil intentions, and even well-meaning but misguided actions can create spiritual pitfalls for others. It acknowledges the pervasive reality of sin's influence.
* **"but woe [unto him], through whom they come!":** Despite the inevitability of stumbling blocks, Jesus immediately issues a severe pronouncement of judgment. The conjunction "but" (δὲ, _de_) introduces a stark contrast. While the existence of _skandala_ is a given, the responsibility and the dire consequences for those who are the *cause* of them are equally certain. The "woe" (οὐαί, _ouai_) signifies divine condemnation and a terrible fate for those who, through their actions, words, or neglect, lead others into sin or away from faith. This highlights the immense moral accountability for one's influence.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its urgent message. The use of **Hyperbole** is evident in the strong declaration "It is impossible but that offences will come," emphasizing the absolute certainty of stumbling blocks appearing in a fallen world. This is not a literal impossibility of their absence, but a rhetorical device to underscore their pervasive nature. The term "woe" functions as a powerful **Exclamation** or **Interjection**, conveying intense emotion—grief, lament, and most significantly, divine judgment. This stark pronouncement serves as a **Warning**, immediately juxtaposing the inevitability of stumbling blocks with the severe accountability of those who cause them. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Contrast** by setting the unavoidable presence of "offences" against the specific and severe condemnation of the individual responsible for them, thereby shifting the focus from the general problem to personal culpability.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 17:1 underscores a profound theological truth about the nature of sin and human responsibility. While acknowledging the pervasive reality of evil and the inevitability of spiritual pitfalls in a fallen world, Jesus places immense moral weight on the individual who becomes an instrument of such harm. This teaching reveals God's deep concern for the spiritual well-being of His people, particularly the vulnerable, and highlights the serious consequences for those who lead others astray. It speaks to the sanctity of individual faith and the communal responsibility within the body of Christ to protect and nurture spiritual growth, rather than to hinder or destroy it. This principle finds echoes throughout Scripture, emphasizing the gravity of influence and the divine judgment awaiting those who disregard the spiritual welfare of others.

* [Matthew 18:6](/matthew/18-6 "Matthew 18:6 - Warning Against Causing Little Ones to Stumble")
* [Romans 14:13](/romans/14-13 "Romans 14:13 - Do Not Cause a Brother to Stumble")
* [1 Corinthians 8:9](/1_corinthians/8-9 "1 Corinthians 8:9 - Do Not Let Your Liberty Become a Stumbling Block")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 17:1 serves as a profound call to self-examination and ethical living for every disciple of Christ. While we cannot prevent all "offences" from entering the world, we are held to account for our personal contribution to them. This verse challenges us to consider the far-reaching impact of our words, actions, attitudes, and even our silence on the spiritual journey of others. It compels us to live with a heightened awareness of our influence, particularly on those who are new in faith, vulnerable, or struggling. True discipleship involves not only pursuing personal holiness but also diligently protecting and nurturing the faith of our brothers and sisters, even if it requires personal sacrifice or restraint of our own liberties. The "woe" is a stark reminder that God takes the spiritual harm of His children with utmost seriousness, urging us to strive for a life that consistently builds up, encourages, and points others towards Christ, rather than causing them to stumble or fall away.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might my words or actions, even unintentionally, create a "stumbling block" for someone else, particularly those new in faith or struggling?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater awareness of my influence on others within my family, church, and community?**
* **What personal liberties or preferences might I need to reconsider or adjust to ensure I am not causing a weaker brother or sister to stumble?**
* **How does the severity of Jesus' "woe" motivate me to live a life that actively promotes the spiritual well-being of others?**

### FAQ
**What exactly does "offences" (skandalon) mean in this context?**

Answer: In Luke 17:1, "offences" translates the Greek word _skandalon_ (σκάνδαλον), which literally refers to a trap, a snare, or the bait-stick of a trap. Figuratively, and as used by Jesus, it means anything that causes someone to stumble, fall into sin, or abandon their faith. It's not merely an insult or a minor annoyance. Instead, it denotes an action, attitude, or situation that leads another person into spiritual harm, moral compromise, or even apostasy. The emphasis is on leading someone astray from the path of righteousness or causing them to violate their conscience or God's commands. This concept is further explored in passages like [Romans 14:13](/romans/14-13 "Romans 14:13 - Do Not Put a Stumbling Block Before a Brother") and [1 Corinthians 8:9](/1_corinthians/8-9 "Do Not Let Your Liberty Become a Stumbling Block").

**Does "It is impossible but that offences will come" imply that God wills people to stumble?**

Answer: No, this statement does not imply that God wills or desires for people to stumble or fall into sin. Instead, Jesus is making a realistic and sober assessment of the fallen human condition and the pervasive presence of evil in the world. Given the reality of sin, human weakness, and the active work of the adversary, it is an unavoidable fact that situations and influences will arise that can cause people to stumble spiritually. The phrase "it is impossible but that" (ἀνένδεκτόν ἐστιν μὴ) highlights the certainty of their occurrence, not divine ordination of the act itself. The subsequent "woe" pronounces severe judgment upon those who *become* the instruments through which these stumbling blocks occur, clearly indicating God's displeasure with those who cause others to sin, rather than with the mere existence of temptation. This distinction is crucial for understanding God's character and human responsibility.

**Who are the "him" through whom offences come, and what is the nature of the "woe"?**

Answer: The "him" refers to any individual who, through their actions, words, or even negligence, becomes the direct cause or instrument of a "stumbling block" for another person, leading them into sin or away from faith. This could be someone who actively tempts, teaches false doctrine, or lives in a way that compromises another's faith. The "woe" (οὐαί, _ouai_) is a strong prophetic exclamation of lament, grief, and divine judgment. It signifies severe divine displeasure and impending doom. It is not merely an expression of sorrow, but a pronouncement of condemnation and a warning of the dire consequences that await those who are responsible for causing spiritual harm to others. Jesus reiterates similar strong warnings in other contexts, such as in [Matthew 23](/matthew/23 "Matthew 23 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees") where He pronounces "woes" upon the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and for hindering people from entering the kingdom of heaven.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Luke 17:1](/luke/17-1 "Luke 17:1 - The Inevitability of Stumbling Blocks") warns of the inevitability of stumbling blocks and the severe judgment for those who cause them, it implicitly points to Christ as the ultimate solution and the perfect antithesis to such spiritual harm. Jesus Himself is presented throughout Scripture as the one who never causes anyone to stumble, but rather is the [Rock of Salvation](/1_corinthians/10-4 "1 Corinthians 10:4 - Christ, the Spiritual Rock") and the [Way, the Truth, and the Life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life"). He came not to put stumbling blocks in our path, but to remove them through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, becoming the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Furthermore, Jesus embodies the very opposite of causing others to stumble; He is the one who actively seeks and saves the lost ([Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost")), welcomes the vulnerable ([Matthew 19:14](/matthew/19-14 "Matthew 19:14 - Let the Little Children Come to Me")), and provides the grace and strength necessary to overcome temptation and avoid spiritual pitfalls ([Hebrews 4:15-16](/hebrews/4-15-16 "Hebrews 4:15-16 - Jesus Our High Priest")). His life and ministry are the ultimate example of living in a way that builds up, heals, and leads humanity into righteousness, offering a stark contrast to those upon whom the "woe" is pronounced. Through His Spirit, believers are empowered to follow His example, becoming agents of grace and truth rather than sources of stumbling.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 18:7

¶ Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!

Romans 14:13

Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in [his] brother's way.

1 Corinthians 8:13

Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.

1 Corinthians 11:19

For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.

Matthew 16:23

But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

Romans 16:17

¶ Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

1 Corinthians 10:32

Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: