Mark 9.42-50 is arguably one of Jesus' tougher teachings. Where generally this passage has become a doctrine about hell, Jesus is after something more pressing for the present. The way we live now matters.
We have real power in the words we say and actions we do to push people away from Jesus, or to bring them to him. Hell is not just a future reality, but a present one too. With our words, we have power to release hell on earth and bring cursing on people, and Jesus says it would be better if we drowned than to push people away from him (Mark 9.42).
It's a sobering teaching, but an important one for all of us who call ourselves followers of Jesus. Are we living lives that compel people to follow Him, or push them away?
Teacher: Caleb Sprinkle
Text: mark 9.42-50
