Matthew 13

Matthew 13:18-23 (Amplified)
The Parable of the Sower Explained

- v21. Yet it has no real root in him, but is temporary (inconstant, lasts but a little while); and when affliction or trouble or persecution comes on account of the Word, at once he is caused to stumble [he is repelled and begins to distrust and desert Him Whom he ought to trust and obey] and he falls away.

You know, we always joke about how some of our actions might stumble our brothers and sisters in Christ, but what does "stumble" really mean? To me I thought it was just falling down and getting up again. Nope, highlighted in bold above is how serious are the consequences of "stumbling" someone.

Later on in v57-58, where Jesus returns to Nazareth and was rejected in his hometown,

- v57-58. And they took offense at Him [they were repelled and hindered from acknowledging His authority, and caused to stumble]. But Jesus said to them, A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.

And He did not do many works of power there, because of their unbelief (their lack of faith in the divine mission of Jesus).

I guess you can stumble yourself too when you do not see the authority of Jesus in your leaders. Does it matter if the person who prays over you is a pastor, a leader or even a new believer who just joined your CG? For God has already ordained that by the foolishness of preaching, whether the person who prays for you is really speaking forth something for real or by fluke, you are still sozoed! (1 Cor 1:21)