OFFENCE: THE BAIT OF SATAN

OFFENCE: THE BAIT OF SATAN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 17:1

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 18:19, Matthew 24:10, 2 Timothy 2:24–26, Hebrews 12:14–15, 2 Corinthians 2:10–11

INTRODUCTION:
Jesus made it clear in Luke 17:1 that “it is impossible but that offences will come.” This truth reveals that offence is not a matter of if but when. However, what many do not realise is that offence is Satan’s subtle weapon to trap, divide, and destroy relationships—especially in the body of Christ. Offence is Satan’s bait, and many are unknowingly ensnared by it.

When a person becomes offended, they open the door to bitterness, unforgiveness, pride, and eventually rebellion. Relationships break, destinies are delayed, and ministries are damaged—not because of the offence itself, but because of the response to it. Many have left churches, abandoned marriages, cut off friendships, and even walked away from God, all because of unresolved offence.

The word "offence" in Greek is skandalon, meaning a trap or snare. Satan uses it as bait to lure people into captivity. But as believers, we must be spiritually alert and choose to rise above offence, walk in love, and guard our hearts diligently.

1. UNDERSTAND THE NATURE OF OFFENCE (Luke 17:1)
Satan thrives in environments where offence is unchecked. We must understand its purpose and operation.

a) Offence Is a Trap – Not Just a Feeling (Proverbs 18:19)
An offended person is harder to reach than a fortified city.

b) Offence Divides and Destroys (Matthew 24:10)
In the last days, many will be offended, betray one another, and hate one another.

c) Offence Opens Doors to Bitterness and Unforgiveness (Hebrews 12:15)
It leads to defilement, not just in one person, but in others they influence.

d) Offence Is Satan’s Bait to Delay Destiny (2 Corinthians 2:11)
We must not be ignorant of his devices.

Biblical Example: Ahithophel was offended by David over Bathsheba and Absalom's revolt became his chance for revenge—but it led to his destruction (2 Samuel 15–17).

2. RECOGNISE THE SYMPTOMS OF AN OFFENDED HEART (Proverbs 4:23)
To deal with offence, we must identify the early signs before it takes root.

a) Withdrawal and Isolation (Proverbs 18:1)
Offended people pull away from community and fellowship.

b) Harsh Words and Bitterness (James 3:14–16)
Offence breeds poisonous speech and a critical spirit.

c) Pride and Self-Justification (Obadiah 1:3)
Offended people often feel superior or right in their offence.

d) Resistance to Correction and Reconciliation (Proverbs 15:10)
A hardened heart avoids accountability.

Biblical Example: Cain was offended by God’s rejection of his offering, and instead of repenting, he became bitter and murdered Abel (Genesis 4:3–8).

3. LEARN TO REFUSE THE BAIT OF SATAN (2 Timothy 2:24–26)
We have the power to resist offence and choose forgiveness and peace.

a) Choose Humility Over Pride (James 4:6–7)
Humility disarms offence and invites grace.

b) Guard Your Heart With Diligence (Proverbs 4:23)
Protect your emotions and thoughts from offence.

c) Commit to Loving People Unconditionally (1 Corinthians 13:5)
Love is not easily offended and keeps no record of wrongs.

d) Respond, Don’t React (Proverbs 15:1)
A soft answer turns away wrath.

Biblical Example: Joseph had every reason to be offended by his brothers, but he chose mercy over revenge and preserved a generation (Genesis 50:15–21).

4. PURSUE HEALING AND FREEDOM FROM OFFENCE (Matthew 5:23–24)
We must take intentional steps to release offence and walk in freedom.

a) Confess the Offence Before God (1 John 1:9)
Acknowledge your hurt and ask God to cleanse you.

b) Forgive the Offender – Even Without an Apology (Mark 11:25)
Forgiveness is not based on their repentance, but your obedience.

c) Pray for Those Who Hurt You (Luke 6:27–28)
Intercession breaks the power of bitterness.

d) Reconcile Where Possible and Move Forward (Romans 12:18)
Do your part to make peace and let go.

Biblical Example: Jesus, while hanging on the cross, chose to forgive His offenders, saying, “Father, forgive them...” (Luke 23:34).

CONCLUSION:
Offence is one of Satan’s most dangerous and subtle traps. It can cripple a person spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. But God gives us the grace to overcome offence through the power of love, humility, and forgiveness. You must make a conscious decision not to take the bait.

Choosing to walk free from offence is choosing to walk in freedom. It preserves your joy, protects your relationships, and positions you for divine favour. When you forgive, you are the one who truly gets set free.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, deliver me from every offence that has taken root in my heart.
2. Father, give me a heart that loves unconditionally and forgives quickly.
3. I refuse to be a prisoner of bitterness or resentment.
4. Heal every wound in my heart caused by offence.
5. Fill me with wisdom to respond to offence with grace and maturity.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will not fall into the trap of offence!
2. Your heart is guarded with God’s peace and joy!
3. Bitterness shall have no place in your life!
4. God will give you victory over every relational storm!
5. You will walk in love, unity, and divine favour!