The Gospel of John: Does This Offend You?
Pastor Johnathan continues his series through the Gospel of John, focusing on the final portion of chapter 6 where Jesus confronts His disciples with the question, "Does this offend you?" (John 6:61). The sermon explores how people throughout history have responded to hard Biblical truths by either accepting them or rejecting them.
Pastor Johnathan begins by examining how religious groups like Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons originated when their founders took offense at Biblical concepts like hell and Jesus' divinity, choosing to change Scripture rather than accept it. He warns that our culture is similarly trying to change God's Word when offended by its teachings. As Proverbs 35:6 states, "Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to him for protection. Do not add to his words, or he may rebuke you and expose you as a liar."
The sermon contrasts the "modern Jesus" who never offends with the "Biblical Jesus" who speaks hard truths. Pastor Johnathan emphasizes that Jesus delivered difficult teachings about hell, money, sin, and marriage without concern for popularity or polling. When many disciples complained that His teachings were "difficult and harsh and offensive" (John 6:60), Jesus didn't retract His statements but challenged them further.
Pastor Johnathan explains how the spirit of offense operates as a spiritual prison: it transfers to others (especially children), prevents us from loving like Jesus, leads to constant turmoil, creates victim mentalities, and ultimately keeps us from experiencing God's glory. Proverbs 18:19 warns that "an offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city." The purpose of this spirit is to lead believers to unbelief and abandonment of God.
When thousands of disciples walked away from Jesus (John 6:66), He didn't chase after them or water down His message. Instead, He turned to the twelve and asked if they also wanted to leave. Peter's response becomes the model for believers: "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and we know that you are the Holy One of God" (John 6:68-69).
Pastor Johnathan concludes with two essential responses for believers: first, believe in Jesus with desperate daily commitment despite difficulties; second, walk in forgiveness. He emphasizes the challenging but liberating truth of Matthew 6:15: "But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." The sermon ends with an altar call, inviting people to release offense through forgiveness and experience transformation in God's presence.