Occasions of stumbling.
To stumble is so to trip as to be hindered in faith or to be turned out of the way (cf. Matthew 5:29, Matthew 5:30; Matthew 11:6; Matthew 13:21; Matthew 15:12; Matthew 24:10; Matthew 26:31, Matthew 26:33; John 6:61, John 6:62, John 6:66; John 16:1). Occasions of stumbling are evil influences—allurements, persuasions, temptations, bad example, calumnies, insults, persecutions. The text teaches—
I. THAT CHRIST HOLDS THE WICKED RESPONSIBLE FOR THE INJURY THEY MAY OCCASION TO THE GOOD. The addition of the words, "which believe on me," shows that Christ is here speaking, not of "little ones" in age. but of his disciples, who are of a humble spirit. Observe:
1. There is no infallible final perseverance of the saints.
2. "It must needs be that the occasions come."
3. The instigator to evil is still responsible.
4. These things need to be emphasized.
II. THAT SUCH OFFENDERS ARE WARNED BY THE TERROR OF FORMIDABLE PUNISHMENT.
1. The sufferings of antichristian nations are admonitory. "Woe unto the world because of occasions of stumbling!"
2. Individuals also are admonished. "Woe to that man through whom the occasion cometh!"
3. But there is yet space for repentance.