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How do we tackle the human spirit’s tendency to take offense? With today’s challenges, where outrage is everywhere, especially online, the idea of being unoffendable as mentioned in the Bible becomes even more important.
Being unoffendable doesn’t mean we ignore all feelings of correction or offense. Instead, it’s about finding a Christlike balance.
How to Be Unoffendable: A Biblical Exploration
The idea of being unoffendable, sometimes misunderstood as being passive, runs deep in the Christian faith. It’s not about ignoring pain or avoiding repentance and correction; rather, it’s a call to hold ourselves to a higher standard of emotional and spiritual strength that’s rooted in humility. The Bible is full of wisdom that grounds us and teaches us to extend grace to others. Here are five biblical teachings that encourage us to be unoffendable, offering ways to grow personally and spiritually.
1. The Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount lies at the heart of being unoffendable. Jesus challenges His followers not to retaliate against those who wrong them. “If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also” (Matthew 5:39, NIV). This does not condone abuse but rather calls us to respond in a way that goes against our personal pride and instead demonstrates humility and love even to those who harm us.
2. The Example of Stephen in Acts
Stephen’s response to persecution in the Book of Acts is a powerful illustration of how to be unoffendable. Even as he was unjustly stoned to death, he called out in forgiveness, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60, NIV). Stephen’s attitude echoes Christ’s own words on the Cross, setting a remarkable example of enduring offense with a spirit of forgiveness and grace.
3. A Different Approach in Paul’s Letters
In today’s heated theological debates, it’s easy to get personally offended. However, Paul’s letters offer a different approach. He emphasizes holding onto truth firmly while avoiding unnecessary conflicts (2 Timothy 2:24-25, NIV). This reminds us to handle disagreements with gentleness and respect.
4. The Wisdom of Proverbs
Proverbs provides practical advice on dealing with offense. Proverbs 12:16 (NIV) tells us, “Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.” While the notion of being wise when responding to an offense can be challenging, it is an important aspect of remaining unoffendable. Proverbs 19:11 suggests that patience can soften the impact of harsh words.
5. Humility in Christ’s Example
No biblical teaching on becoming unoffendable and practicing humility is complete without looking to the ultimate example—Jesus. In Philippians 2:5-11 (NIV), Paul highlights Christ’s humility, who, despite being equal with God, humbled Himself to the point of death on the Cross. His selflessness serves as the ultimate example of putting others’ interests before our own.
How do we apply these teachings to our daily lives?
- Extend a Hand Not a Fist
The Psalmist asks, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts” (Psalm 139:23, NIV). Being open to God’s scrutiny creates an environment where offense has no root. By striving to see through the eyes of love, we’re more likely to offer a helping hand rather than a fist of resistance.
- Respond to Criticism with Grace
When someone criticizes us, we might quickly become defensive. But the wisdom from the Book of Proverbs says, “Rebukes impress a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool” (Proverbs 17:10, NIV). There’s wisdom in taking criticism gracefully, like a student eager to learn, rather than reacting defensively like we know it all.
The Wisdom of Constructive Rebuke
In Paul’s second letter to Timothy, he emphasizes the importance of “constructive rebuke” (2 Timothy 3:16, NIV), which helps us correct our mistakes and move toward doing what’s right. This kind of feedback fosters accountability without falling into the traps of pride.
Discernment over Judgment
Discernment is different from judgment. Judgment tends to categorize, while discernment seeks understanding. When we cultivate discernment, we’re less likely to get caught up in the false offense.
Listen now to a short segment of an Abide meditation based on 2 Timothy 3:16. Let God speak to your heart about how Scripture should be rightly handled in all our interactions.
The journey of becoming unoffendable and practicing humility is deep and challenging. It goes against the world’s logic and leads us into grace. By integrating these biblical teachings into our lives, we not only find relief from being easily offended but also open ourselves to God’s love and purpose.
For more support on learning to be unoffendable, download the Abide app. Our more than 1500 guided meditations all exist to help you grow in your relationship with God and bring you peace. By starting a premium subscription, you gain access to our entire library of content. Here’s 25% off to get you started.
