Matt. 26:31- Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
It is interesting to note that the word “offended” in our verse for the day is the Greek “skandalizo.” This word is our English word “scandalize.” It means to obstruct one’s way with the intent to make them fall. When one scandalizes another with the simple use of their words, or an evil deed, could severely impair the progress of another. Some never recover from a scandal, others may be deeply scarred by it, and the rest will push full steam ahead despite what has been said or done. But even those who move forward may suffer side effects, or could become temporally paralyzed at one point or another.
The enemy knew that taking away our Lord from those who loved Him would have a great negative impact. As soon as Jesus was smitten, the sheep scattered. His followers were offended by what appeared to be the tragic end of something that was destine for greatness. The women were crying and the disciples were hiding.
“Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” Offences are definitely going to come (Matt. 18:7). Yet the question is not whether they will come, but rather how will you or I handle them? Yes the intent was for them to cause the maximum damage possible. But if we think about how our Lord overcame being offended, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we will see right through satan’s intention and counter his Move with God’s Word! Jesus forgave those who offended Him, and went on to die so that He would rise on the third day, and He wants you and me to do the same!