12 Bible Verses About Gospel Being Offensive

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Bible verses about gospel being offensive

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about gospel being offensive:

1. 1 Corinthians 1:18 – “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”
2. Galatians 5:11 – “And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the offence of the cross ceased.”
3. Matthew 11:6 – “And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.”
4. 1 Peter 2:8 – “And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.”
5. Romans 9:33 – “As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.”
6. 1 Corinthians 1:23 – “But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness.”

7. Romans 1:16 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”
8. 2 Corinthians 2:15-16 – “For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?”
9. 2 Timothy 3:12 – “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”
10. John 15:18 – “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.”
11. Acts 4:12 – “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”
12. Matthew 10:22 – “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.”

What does the bible say about gospel being offensive?

The Bible teaches that the gospel message can be offensive to some people because it challenges their beliefs, values, and lifestyles.

The gospel calls for repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as the only way to salvation, which can be seen as confrontational and exclusive to those who do not believe.

Additionally, the gospel exposes sin and the need for forgiveness, which can be uncomfortable and convicting for those who do not want to acknowledge their wrongdoing.

Despite the potential offense, the Bible also emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel with love, humility, and respect, trusting in God to work in the hearts of those who hear the message.

Ultimately, the gospel is a message of hope and redemption for all who are willing to receive it, even if it may be initially challenging or offensive to some.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about gospel being offensive?

1. Matthew 10 – This chapter includes Jesus sending out his disciples to preach the gospel, warning them that they will face opposition and persecution. It highlights the offensive nature of the gospel message and the reactions it can provoke from those who do not believe.

2. 1 Corinthians 1 – This chapter discusses the foolishness of the gospel message to those who are perishing, emphasizing that the message of the cross is offensive to those who do not believe. It highlights the divisive nature of the gospel and how it can be a stumbling block to some.

3. Acts 4 – This chapter recounts the persecution faced by Peter and John for preaching the gospel and healing a man in the name of Jesus. It demonstrates the offense that the gospel can cause to those in power and authority, leading to opposition and threats against those who proclaim it.

These chapters are relevant to understanding the offensive nature of the gospel because they illustrate the reactions and responses that the message of Jesus can provoke in others. They show that the gospel can be divisive, challenging, and confrontational to those who do not believe, leading to persecution and opposition. Understanding these dynamics can help believers navigate the challenges of sharing the gospel in a world that may find it offensive.

Ideas and concepts related to gospel being offensive that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. The concept of sin: The Bible teaches that all people have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). This concept can be offensive to some because it challenges the idea that people are inherently good and highlights the need for repentance and forgiveness.

2. The concept of judgment: The Bible also teaches that there will be a final judgment where all people will be held accountable for their actions (Hebrews 9:27). This idea can be offensive because it challenges the belief that everyone will ultimately be accepted and forgiven regardless of their choices.

3. The exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ: The Bible teaches that salvation is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ (John 14:6). This can be offensive to those who believe in the idea of universalism or that there are many paths to God.

4. The call to repentance and transformation: The Bible calls people to repent of their sins and turn towards God (Acts 3:19). This can be offensive because it challenges individuals to change their ways and live according to God’s standards, which may go against their own desires or beliefs.

Overall, these concepts related to sin, judgment, exclusivity of salvation, and the call to repentance and transformation can be offensive to some because they challenge deeply held beliefs, confront personal sinfulness, and require a surrendering of one’s will to God. The gospel message can be offensive because it calls people to acknowledge their need for a savior and to live in a way that is contrary to the ways of the world.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.