Matthew 18:7
Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!
Original Language Analysis
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κόσμῳ
unto the world
G2889
κόσμῳ
unto the world
Strong's:
G2889
Word #:
3 of 22
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
ἀπὸ
because of
G575
ἀπὸ
because of
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
4 of 22
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σκάνδαλον
offences
G4625
σκάνδαλον
offences
Strong's:
G4625
Word #:
6 of 22
a trap-stick (bent sapling), i.e., snare (figuratively, cause of displeasure or sin)
ἀνάγκη
it must needs
G318
ἀνάγκη
it must needs
Strong's:
G318
Word #:
7 of 22
constraint (literally or figuratively); by implication, distress
γάρ
! for
G1063
γάρ
! for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
8 of 22
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἔρχεται
come
G2064
ἔρχεται
come
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
10 of 22
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σκάνδαλον
offences
G4625
σκάνδαλον
offences
Strong's:
G4625
Word #:
12 of 22
a trap-stick (bent sapling), i.e., snare (figuratively, cause of displeasure or sin)
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
15 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκείνῳ
by
G1565
ἐκείνῳ
by
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
17 of 22
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
δι'
whom
G1223
δι'
whom
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
18 of 22
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
οὗ
G3739
οὗ
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
19 of 22
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
20 of 22
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Luke 17:1Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!Matthew 26:24The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.1 Corinthians 11:19For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.Jude 1:4For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.Titus 2:8Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.Titus 2:5To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.Acts 1:16Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.Mark 13:7And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.John 17:12While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.1 Timothy 6:1Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
Historical Context
This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
- What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
- How should you share this truth with others?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.