OVERCOMING THE SPIRIT OF OFFENCE

OVERCOMING THE SPIRIT OF OFFENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 17:1

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 18:19, Matthew 24:10, Hebrews 12:14-15, 2 Corinthians 2:10-11, Ephesians 4:31-32

INTRODUCTION:
Offence is one of the enemy’s most effective weapons against believers. Jesus warned in Luke 17:1 that offences will surely come, indicating that no one is immune to being hurt, misunderstood, or treated unfairly. However, how we respond to offences determines our spiritual health, relationships, and destiny.

The word “offence” comes from the Greek word skandalon, which refers to a trap or snare used to catch animals. Spiritually, it represents the trap Satan uses to ensnare believers through hurt, bitterness, and unforgiveness. Left unchecked, offence opens the door to emotional torment and spiritual stagnation.

God desires that His people live free of offence, walking in love, grace, and truth. This message will guide you on how to identify, confront, and overcome the spirit of offence so that you can live in spiritual freedom and emotional wholeness.

1. UNDERSTAND THE DANGER OF OFFENCE (Luke 17:1)

Recognising offence as a spiritual snare is the first step to overcoming it.

a) Offence Is a Trap of the Enemy (2 Corinthians 2:11)
Satan uses offence to divide relationships and derail destinies.

b) It Breeds Bitterness and Resentment (Hebrews 12:15)
Bitterness is the fruit of unhealed offence and it defiles the heart.

c) Offence Destroys Unity and Fellowship (Matthew 24:10)
Offended hearts cause betrayal, gossip, and broken trust.

d) It Hinders Prayers and Worship (Mark 11:25)
Unforgiveness creates a barrier between us and God.

Biblical Example: Cain took offence at God’s rejection of his offering and ended up killing his brother Abel out of jealousy and anger (Genesis 4:3–8).

2. IDENTIFY THE SYMPTOMS OF OFFENCE (Proverbs 18:19)

Learning to recognise offence helps you respond early and wisely.

a) Emotional Withdrawal from People (Proverbs 18:1)
Offended people isolate themselves and break meaningful connections.

b) Holding Grudges and Replaying Hurts (Ephesians 4:31)
The mind becomes a battlefield of offence and bitterness.

c) Loss of Joy and Peace (Colossians 3:13–15)
A heart burdened with offence cannot enjoy true spiritual peace.

d) Critical and Judgmental Attitude (Matthew 7:1–5)
Offence often turns people into harsh critics of others.

Biblical Example: Ahithophel was offended by David, joined Absalom’s rebellion, and ended up taking his own life (2 Samuel 15–17).

3. DECIDE TO WALK IN LOVE AND FORGIVENESS (Ephesians 4:32)

The way out of offence is through a conscious decision to love and forgive.

a) Forgive Quickly and Completely (Colossians 3:13)
Forgiveness is not based on the offender’s actions but on obedience to God.

b) Respond to Offence with Love (Luke 6:27–28)
Bless those who hurt you—this breaks the power of offence.

c) Avoid Rehearsing the Offence (Philippians 4:8)
Refuse to keep reliving what happened. Focus on what is good.

d) Pray for Those Who Hurt You (Matthew 5:44)
Prayer softens the heart and opens the door for healing.

Biblical Example: Jesus, on the cross, forgave those who crucified Him: “Father, forgive them...” (Luke 23:34).

4. DEVELOP A HEART THAT CANNOT BE OFFENDED (Psalm 119:165)

It is possible to grow to a level of maturity where offence no longer sticks.

a) Grow in Spiritual Maturity (Hebrews 5:14)
Mature believers discern offence and reject it.

b) Guard Your Heart with All Diligence (Proverbs 4:23)
Keep your heart tender toward God and people.

c) Let the Word of God Dwell Richly in You (Colossians 3:16)
Scripture builds inner strength against emotional traps.

d) Be Quick to Hear and Slow to Speak (James 1:19)
Wisdom prevents unnecessary offence in conversations.

Biblical Example: Joseph forgave his brothers and provided for them despite their betrayal (Genesis 45:4–8).

CONCLUSION:
Offence is a spiritual snare that Satan uses to trap God’s people. It creeps in subtly, but its consequences are severe: broken relationships, spiritual dryness, delayed destiny, and emotional pain. But through love, forgiveness, and maturity, you can break free from the power of offence.

Decide today to release every hurt, forgive freely, and keep your heart pure. God has greater things for you ahead, but offence can block the flow. Let it go, and step into freedom, joy, and divine fulfilment.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, expose every root of offence hidden in my heart.
2. Father, give me the grace to forgive those who have hurt me.
3. I refuse to live as a prisoner of bitterness and resentment.
4. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to walk in love and peace with all men.
5. Let every snare of offence in my life be broken in Jesus’ name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. You shall not be a victim of offence and bitterness!
2. Every trap of the enemy against your peace is destroyed!
3. You are walking in love, joy, and victory daily!
4. Relationships in your life are being healed and restored!
5. The Lord is lifting every burden of offence from your heart today!