Stumbling Stone

Stumbling Stone

What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; ³¹ but the people of Israel, who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. ³² Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone.  Romans 9:30-32

This is the conundrum for the gospel given to man.  The people of God (the Jews) who had favored relationship, forfeited that status.  And those who didn’t even have a concern about holy things, get the opportunity to participate in eternal life.  Paul says that the defining line is faith and not works.

Why did Jesus become a stumbling stone?  Is there something about Jesus that may cause anyone of us to stumble?  Wouldn’t it had made better sense for God to make Jesus someone to be adored by all?  But He is not.  God gave him a name that is above every other name on earth.  In fact, you can mention “God”and the conversation continues easily, but when you bring the name of Jesus into the mix everyone gets uncomfortable. Why?

Because He has been given status of LORD.  He can only be approached humbly, on knees and with brokenness.  A relationship can only be established on his terms.  This is true whether you are a Jew or a Gentile.  It is true that it is “either His way or the highway”.  None of our efforts, rank, status, good looks, money, good works or sacrifice is enough to gain a favorable influence.  Relationship with Jesus is a grace gift.  Because it is gained only on His terms, it causes people to be offended or stumble.

This stumbling goes beyond salvation, it becomes part of our life also as we are identified with him.  As we talk about Jesus, as we tell people that He is the way the truth and the life, and as we follow Him in speech and actions, our lives become offensive, a stumbling block.  Yet, upon this Rock, God’s children gather to build His church.

Father, help us to appreciate the wisdom of your ways.  As Paul says what right does the clay have to tell the potter what He should do with the clay.  So we humbly, thank you for your grace.  Let us embrace you as the rock of stumbling and offense.