These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be caused to stumble.
Verse 1. These things. The things spoken in the two previous chapters, promising them divine aid and directing them in the path of duty. Be offended. For the meaning of the word offend, . It means here the same as to stumble or fall --that is to apostatize.
These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. (1) The ministers of the gospel must expect all types of reproaches, not only by those who are open enemies, but even by those also who seem to be of the same household, and the very pillars of the Church.
In the close of the foregoing chapter, our blessed Saviour had acquainted his disciples with the hatred and hard usage which they were likely to meet with in the world, and here he intimates to them the reason why he did so much insist upon the subject; namely, not to sadden their hearts, and grieve their spirits, before their sufferings came, but that they might...