The Bible often talks about “stumbling blocks”—things that can trip us up in our faith. But what exactly does this mean? And how can we avoid them while growing closer to God?
This guide will explain:
✔ What a stumbling block is in the Bible
✔ Key Bible verses about stumbling blocks
✔ How Jesus and Paul warned believers about them
✔ The best order to read the Bible for better understanding
Let’s dive in!
What Is a Stumbling Block in the Bible?
A stumbling block is anything that causes someone to sin, doubt, or turn away from God. It could be:
An action (like leading others into sin)
A wrong attitude (like pride or judgment)
False teachings (things that confuse or mislead believers)
The Bible warns us to avoid putting stumbling blocks in others’ paths while also staying strong in our own faith.
Key Bible Verses About Stumbling Blocks
1. 1 Corinthians 8:9-13 – Don’t Let Your Freedom Hurt Others
Paul talks about eating food sacrificed to idols. Some Christians knew idols were fake, so they ate the food freely. But others, still new in faith, felt guilty.
Paul’s warning:
“Be careful that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” (1 Cor. 8:9)
Lesson: Even if something isn’t a sin for you, don’t do it if it might hurt another believer’s faith.
2. Matthew 18:6-9 – Jesus’ Strong Warning
Jesus said:
“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”
Lesson: Hurting someone’s faith is serious. We must be careful in how we live.
3. Romans 14:13 – Stop Judging, Start Helping
“Let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.”
Lesson: Judging others can push them away from God. Instead, encourage them!
Was Jesus Ever Called a Stumbling Block?
Yes! 1 Corinthians 1:23 says:
“We preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.”
Some people rejected Jesus because:
Jews expected a warrior-king, not a suffering Savior.
Gentiles (non-Jews) thought the cross was weak and silly.
But for believers, Jesus is the cornerstone of faith (1 Peter 2:6-8).
How to Avoid Stumbling Blocks in Your Faith
Be careful with your freedom – Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should (1 Cor. 10:23).
Encourage others – Build people up; don’t tear them down (1 Thess. 5:11).
Stay close to God’s Word – The Bible keeps us from falling into error (Psalm 119:105).
What’s the Best Order to Read the Bible?
If you’re new to the Bible, reading it cover-to-cover can be tough. Here are 3 better ways:
1. Chronological Order (History Timeline)
Read the Bible in the order events happened:
Start with Genesis (Creation)
Move to Exodus (Israel’s escape from Egypt)
Then Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings (Israel’s kings)
Psalms & Proverbs (Wisdom during hard times)
Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) – Jesus’ life
Acts & Paul’s Letters – Early church growth
Best for: People who love history and timelines.
2. Canonical Order (Traditional Book Order)
Read the Bible as it’s organized:
Old Testament (Law, History, Poetry, Prophets)
New Testament (Gospels, Acts, Letters, Revelation)
Best for: Those who want a structured approach.
3. Thematic Reading (By Topic)
Pick a theme (like faith, love, or prayer) and study related verses.
Faith: Hebrews 11, James 2
Love: 1 Corinthians 13, 1 John 4
Prayer: Matthew 6:5-15, Philippians 4:6-7
Best for: New believers or those studying specific topics.
Final Thought: Stay Strong, Don’t Stumble!
The Bible warns us about stumbling blocks—not just for others, but for ourselves too. By:
✅ Loving others more than our rights
✅ Avoiding judgment
✅ Reading the Bible in a way that makes sense
Professor Sarah is an expert in the Bible. She teaches us about the life of Jesus and the early Christian church in a way that is easy to understand and interesting.
