Luke 17:2

It would be better for him to have a millstone hung around his neck and to be thrown into the sea than to cause one of these little ones to stumble.

Study Bible

It would be better
The phrase "It would be better" suggests a comparison of outcomes, emphasizing the severity of the consequence. In the Greek, the word "better" (Greek: συμφέρει, sympherei) implies a more advantageous or preferable situation. This sets the tone for the gravity of the warning Jesus is about to give. The use of this phrase underscores the seriousness with which Jesus regards the spiritual well-being of others, particularly the vulnerable.

for him
The pronoun "him" is generic, referring to anyone who might cause harm. It personalizes the warning, making it applicable to each individual. This universality is a reminder that the responsibility to protect and nurture the faith of others is not limited to leaders or teachers but extends to all believers.

to have a millstone hung around his neck
A "millstone" (Greek: μυλικός λίθος, mylikos lithos) refers to a large stone used for grinding grain. In ancient times, millstones were heavy and essential for daily life, symbolizing a significant burden. The imagery of having such a stone "hung around his neck" is vivid and stark, indicating an inescapable and dire consequence. Historically, this method of execution was known in the ancient world, adding a layer of cultural understanding to the severity of the warning.

and to be thrown into the sea
The act of being "thrown into the sea" conveys a sense of finality and hopelessness. In Jewish thought, the sea often represented chaos and destruction. This imagery would resonate with Jesus' audience, highlighting the drastic nature of the punishment. The sea, vast and uncontrollable, serves as a metaphor for the overwhelming consequences of leading others astray.

than to cause
The phrase "than to cause" introduces the alternative, which is deemed worse than the previous scenario. The Greek word for "cause" (Greek: σκανδαλίζω, skandalizō) means to cause to stumble or to lead into sin. This word is the root of the English "scandalize," indicating a serious moral failing. The emphasis here is on the active role one might play in leading others into sin.

one of these little ones
"Little ones" (Greek: μικρός, mikros) can refer to children or those who are young in faith. This term is often used affectionately by Jesus to describe those who are vulnerable or dependent. The phrase underscores the preciousness and value of each believer, especially those who are impressionable or weak. It is a call to protect and nurture the faith of those who are most susceptible to harm.

to stumble
The word "stumble" (Greek: σκανδαλίζω, skandalizō) is repeated, emphasizing the act of causing another to fall into sin or lose faith. In a spiritual context, stumbling implies a disruption in one's walk with God. The repetition of this term highlights the seriousness of the offense and the responsibility of believers to support and uphold one another in their faith journey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, offering a stern warning about causing others to sin.

2. Little Ones
Refers to believers, particularly those who are young in faith or vulnerable.

3. Millstone
A large, heavy stone used for grinding grain, symbolizing a severe consequence.

4. Sea
Represents a place of judgment or destruction in this context.

5. Stumbling
A metaphor for leading someone into sin or causing them to fall away from faith.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Jesus uses strong imagery to convey the gravity of leading others into sin. This underscores the importance of living a life that reflects Christ's teachings.

Responsibility to Fellow Believers
As members of the body of Christ, we have a duty to support and uplift one another, ensuring our actions do not cause others to falter in their faith.

Guarding Our Influence
We must be mindful of how our words and actions impact others, especially those who are new or vulnerable in their faith journey.

Accountability
This passage calls for self-examination and accountability within the Christian community to prevent causing others to stumble.

The Weight of Leadership
Those in positions of influence or leadership within the church bear a significant responsibility to guide others rightly and avoid leading them into sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the imagery of a millstone and the sea convey about the seriousness of causing others to stumble?

2. How can we identify and avoid behaviors that might lead others into sin, especially within our church community?

3. In what ways can we support and protect "little ones" in faith from stumbling?

4. How do the teachings in 1 Corinthians 8:9-13 and Romans 14:13 expand on the responsibility of believers to avoid causing others to stumble?

5. Reflect on a time when you were influenced by someone else's actions or words. How can this experience guide you in being a positive influence on others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 18:6
This verse parallels Luke 17:2, emphasizing the seriousness of leading believers astray.

Mark 9:42
Similar warning about causing believers to stumble, highlighting the gravity of such actions.

1 Corinthians 8:9-13
Discusses the responsibility of stronger believers to avoid causing weaker ones to stumble through their actions.

Romans 14:13
Encourages believers to avoid placing stumbling blocks in the paths of others.

James 3:1
Warns teachers about the greater judgment they face, which can relate to leading others astray.