Mark 9:42

And whosoever shall offend one of [these] little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.

And {G2532} whosoever {G3739}{G302} shall offend {G4624} one {G1520} of these little ones {G3398} that believe {G4100} in {G1519} me {G1691}, it is {G2076} better {G2570}{G3123} for him {G846} that {G1487} a millstone {G3037}{G3457} were hanged {G4029} about {G4012} his {G846} neck {G5137}, and {G2532} he were cast {G906} into {G1519} the sea {G2281}.

"Whoever ensnares one of these little ones who trust me -- it would be better for him to have a millstone hung around his neck and be thrown in the sea.

But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be thrown into the sea.

And whosoever shall cause one of these little ones that believe on me to stumble, it were better for him if a great millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.

In Mark 9:42, Jesus issues one of His most severe warnings, emphasizing the immense gravity of causing a believer, particularly a vulnerable one, to stumble in their faith. This vivid imagery underscores God's profound protection for His people.

Context

This verse immediately follows Jesus' teaching on humility and the value of receiving children in His name (Mark 9:37). The "little ones" (Greek: mikroi) here refer not only to literal children, but also to humble, unassuming believers, or those who are new or weak in faith, who might be easily led astray or discouraged. The disciples had just been arguing about who was the greatest, prompting Jesus to call a child and set him as an example of humility (Mark 9:33-35). The warning in verse 42 serves as a stark contrast to seeking personal greatness, highlighting the severe consequences of misusing influence or position to harm another's spiritual walk.

Key Themes

  • Protection of the Vulnerable: Jesus demonstrates a deep concern for the spiritual well-being of those who are weak, young, or easily influenced in their faith. God places immense value on every individual believer.
  • Severity of Spiritual Harm: The act of causing someone to "offend" (Greek: skandalizo) means to cause them to stumble, fall into sin, or lose faith. This is portrayed as a profoundly serious offense against God Himself.
  • Divine Justice: The hyperbolic punishment of a millstone around the neck and being cast into the sea illustrates the extreme displeasure God has for those who would spiritually harm His children. It signifies utter destruction and irreversible consequence.

Linguistic and Cultural Insights

The Greek word translated "offend" is skandalizo, from which we get our word "scandal." It literally means to put a stumbling block or trap in someone's way, causing them to trip or fall. In a spiritual sense, it refers to leading someone into sin or apostasy. The "millstone" (Greek: mulinikos lithos) was a very heavy stone, typically used for grinding grain, often requiring a donkey to turn it. This was an ancient form of capital punishment, known in various cultures, though not a standard Jewish method. The image of being cast into the deepest part of the sea signifies a complete, irreversible, and dishonorable end, worse than any earthly punishment.

Practical Application

This powerful warning challenges all believers, especially those in positions of leadership or influence, to carefully consider the impact of their words, actions, and teachings. We are called to nurture and protect the faith of others, particularly new believers or those who are spiritually vulnerable. This includes being mindful of how our example might lead others to sin, doubt, or discouragement. Instead of being stumbling blocks, we are to be encouragers, mentors, and examples of godly living, helping others grow in their faith rather than causing them to fall (Romans 14:13).

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Matthew 18:6

    But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

  • Luke 17:1

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

  • Luke 17:2

    It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.

  • Matthew 18:10

    Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

  • 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.

  • 2 Corinthians 6:3

    Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:

  • 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.
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