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The Bait Of Satan: Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense
Escape the enemy's deadly trap! The Bait of Satan exposes one of the most deceptive snares Satan uses to get believers out of the will of God-offense. Most people who are ensnared by the bait of Satan don't even realize it. Don't be fooled! You will encounter offense, and it's up to you how it will affect your relationship with God. Your response will determine your future. If offense is handled correctly, you will become stronger rather than bitter. In this tenth anniversary edition of his best-selling book, John Bevere shows you how to stay free from offense and escape the victim mentality. With more than 400,000 copies in print, this book includes testimonials of transformed people who have read copies in print, this book includes testimonials of transformed people who have read the original book and a devotional supplement, featuring discussion questions, scriptures, and prayers. You will find answers to tough questions like This book will help you escape the enemy's "offensive trap" as well as empower you to stay free of offense, enabling you to have an unhindered relationship with God.
255 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
3165 people are currently reading
10554 people want to read
About the author
John Bevere
154 books869 followersMarked by boldness and passion, John Bevere delivers uncompromising truth through his award-winning curriculums and bestselling books, now in more than 60 languages, including "The Bait of Satan," "Drawing Near" and "Driven by Eternity." He is an international speaker and co-host of "The Messenger" TV program broadcast worldwide.
John enjoys living in Colorado Springs with his wife, Lisa, also a best-selling author and speaker, and their four sons.
John enjoys living in Colorado Springs with his wife, Lisa, also a best-selling author and speaker, and their four sons.
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October 8, 2019
Deception is so...unfair!
A deceived person, by the very nature of deception, has no possible way of knowing they are being deceived. That is, unless someone shines a light onto the issue, revealing the truth to them and exposing the lies for what they truly are...lies and deception. I was given such a revelation this past week, when I read "THE BAIT OF SATAN: Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense” by John Bevere.
If you had asked me two weeks ago if I was offended by anybody, or if I was holding onto any offense, I would have honestly said, “No...not that I know of.” Not because I would not want to share that information with you, or recognize I had any faults but, simply because I am a pretty laid-back person and I tend to easily forgive people. Yet, before even finishing the first chapter of this book, I was already in tears as God began showing me people whom I had allowed to offend me. For the first time, I was able to see through the enemy’s deception in this area and could recognize where I had stepped in his traps. I was, in fact, holding onto some offenses, not allowing God’s work to be as effective in those areas of my life and ministry.
THE TRAP
Right at the very beginning of the book, John teaches that the Greek word for “offend” is skandalon, which refers to the part of a trap where the bait is set. So, even just by looking at the word “offend”, we can see how an offense can be a tool that Satan, our enemy, will lay in our path to catch us, or trap us. Our enemy wants the trap to remain hidden, so we will be unaware of the danger we are headed toward, and even more importantly, he wants us to remain unaware of the very fact that we have been trapped, therefore, keeping us from even attempting to free ourselves from the trap at all! How easy the hunter’s job is, if the animal he has trapped does not even realize he has been trapped and does not fight or struggle to get free!
“Well, that doesn’t make sense!” one might say. “How could a person be trapped and yet not even realize it?” Bevere addresses this when he writes, “One way the enemy keeps a person in an offended state is to keep the offense hidden, cloaked with pride. Pride will keep you from admitting your true condition.” (p. 7)
Pride then leads to selfishness, as we become more concerned with the preservation of ourselves than with the well-being of others. This selfishness causes the offended Christian to become focused inward and we lose sight of what God is doing in and through others. We become guarded and defensive; seeking to protect our “rights”, rather than with open arms being ready to embrace others and come to their defense! This selfish pride causes us to view ourselves as victims, but just because we may have been mistreated does not mean we suddenly have the right to hold on to an offense! For as Bevere writes, “If we don’t risk being hurt, we cannot give unconditional love. Unconditional love gives others the right to hurt us.” (p. 16)
THE RESULT OF OFFENSE
When people get offended, and hold on to the offense and let it grow and fester, it will infect them like a poison. They begin to believe everyone is out to get them. Obviously, this attitude makes it even more difficult for them to see where in their lives they need to grow, change and mature. As they continue to isolate themselves, seeking their own protection, they end up inviting abuse. If they do not soon recognize and put a stop to this destructive mindset, this can quickly become a circular pattern; take an offense, become defensive, seek isolation, invite abuse and then back to offense.
Proverbs 18:1 says, “A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; he rages against all wise judgment.” But, as Bevere writes,
“God never created us to live separately and independently of each other. He likes it when His children care for and nurture each other. He is frustrated when we...feel sorry for ourselves; making everyone else responsible for our happiness...an isolated person seeks only his own desire, not God’s. He receives no counsel and sets himself up for deception.” (p. 55)
Further on he adds,
“When you’re out of the will of God, you will not be a blessing or help to [others]...even the good relationships will be strained...Offended people react to the situation and do things that appear right even though they are not inspired by God. We are not called to react but to act.” (p. 50)
However, when we read Psalm 1:1-2 and 119:165 we see that it says, “Blessed is the man…[whose] delight is in the law of the Lord...great peace have they which love [or delight in] Thy law; and nothing shall offend them.” Bevere points out that when we choose to delight in the Word of God, even in the midst of adversity, we avoid being offended.
IS OFFENDING SOMEONE EVER ACCEPTABLE?
One of the many things I liked in this book was when Bevere showed, in chapters 9 and 10, the difference between: (a) Jesus being WILLING to offend various people because He knew it would either expose a deception or lie they had believed in error, or because He was not willing to bend or avoid the truth, and (b) Jesus being UNWILLING to offend someone if it would not have served a greater purpose...even if he would have been fully justified in doing so! It showed me: There is both a time to offend and a time when it is wiser not to offend.
I think most of us tend to avoid offending people at all costs, myself included. However, sometimes the action which would be the most beneficial for everyone may very well be taken offensively. The question is, “Are we more concerned with truth and the ultimate well-being of others, or with our reputations and what people think of us?” Yet, on the flip-side, there are other times when we act out of selfish, prideful motivations and put our “rights” before the needs of others and risk offending people unnecessarily, with no higher motivation in mind aside from our own self-centeredness, thus no benefit to anybody is gained. As Bevere points out, we would do well to learn from Jesus’ example in this regard: “...He chose to use His liberty and freedom to serve...He never wanted freedom to be a license to demand our rights and cause another to be offended and stumble” (pp. 113, 116)
NO GRAY AREA, NO MIDDLE GROUND, NO DOUBT ABOUT IT
One of the strongest statements John Bevere makes in this book, and possibly my favorite quote in the book, simply because of how bold and shocking it is to our western, privileged way of thinking, is on page 137 when he says, “Jesus eliminates any gray areas for grudges. In fact He says that our attitude is to be so far removed from avenging ourselves that we are willing to open ourselves to the possibility of being taken advantage of again.” Wow! There is no playing around with this statement, is there?! It flies right in the face of our culture’s popular, “Look out for Number One,” mantra, doesn’t it?! But, when we stop and think about Bevere’s statement...it is exactly the attitude of unconditional love Jesus took with us. He willingly went to the cross; laying down His life, though He was innocent. He took all our sin upon Himself; suffering through the worst possible torture and death. He paid the highest price...even while we rejected Him and His gift to us! (Romans 5:8) Now, if THAT was not love, what is?
One of the last things Bevere says in his book is this:
“If we keep the love of God as our motivation, we will not fail. Love never fails. When we love others the way Jesus loves us, we will be free even if the other person chooses not to be reconciled to us...the love of God is the key to freedom from the baited trap of offense. This must be an abounding love...that continually grows...so many in our society today are deceived by a superficial love, a love that talks but does not act. The love that will keep us from stumbling lays down its life selflessly—even for the good of an enemy. When we walk in this kind of love, we cannot be seduced into taking the bait of Satan.” (pp. 162–163)
ON A PERSONAL NOTE
At the time of writing this, I have only just finished reading THE BAIT OF SATAN and have not yet had an opportunity to speak with the people with whom I have held the biggest offense. I have, however, gone before the Lord in prayer; admitting my offenses to Him, forgiving those people who had hurt me, releasing them from any blame in my heart and cancelling any debt I felt they owed me. Almost immediately I began feeling the weight of my offenses lifting and a peace and joy fill my heart as I thought about each person and prayed for them and for our relationship to be healed, restored and strengthened. I know to see the full work of this restoration is a process and may take some time, but I am encouraged to feel such a difference already in my heart over the last two days since finishing Bevere’s book. I am now praying as God provides the opportunities, I would be able to speak with each of these people, to confess my offenses to them and seek their forgiveness. Hopefully, we will see our friendship strengthened and our ministry together bear fruit again...yet, even if they don’t receive my attempt to mend our relationship, I will know I have been freed from the trap of offense in which the enemy once imprisoned me!
I have been so blessed by the message of John Bevere’s book, THE BAIT OF SATAN, and hope to see God’s work of deliverance set many more people free from the trap of offense. I plan on recommending this book to others at my church, in my ministry and in my family. May God bless John Bevere for writing this timely and powerful book, and may God bless every believer who reads it and chooses to obey the Word of God and the principles in this book. May you find freedom and healing from the hurts and offenses of this world; and may you stay freed from the trap!
A deceived person, by the very nature of deception, has no possible way of knowing they are being deceived. That is, unless someone shines a light onto the issue, revealing the truth to them and exposing the lies for what they truly are...lies and deception. I was given such a revelation this past week, when I read "THE BAIT OF SATAN: Living Free from the Deadly Trap of Offense” by John Bevere.
If you had asked me two weeks ago if I was offended by anybody, or if I was holding onto any offense, I would have honestly said, “No...not that I know of.” Not because I would not want to share that information with you, or recognize I had any faults but, simply because I am a pretty laid-back person and I tend to easily forgive people. Yet, before even finishing the first chapter of this book, I was already in tears as God began showing me people whom I had allowed to offend me. For the first time, I was able to see through the enemy’s deception in this area and could recognize where I had stepped in his traps. I was, in fact, holding onto some offenses, not allowing God’s work to be as effective in those areas of my life and ministry.
THE TRAP
Right at the very beginning of the book, John teaches that the Greek word for “offend” is skandalon, which refers to the part of a trap where the bait is set. So, even just by looking at the word “offend”, we can see how an offense can be a tool that Satan, our enemy, will lay in our path to catch us, or trap us. Our enemy wants the trap to remain hidden, so we will be unaware of the danger we are headed toward, and even more importantly, he wants us to remain unaware of the very fact that we have been trapped, therefore, keeping us from even attempting to free ourselves from the trap at all! How easy the hunter’s job is, if the animal he has trapped does not even realize he has been trapped and does not fight or struggle to get free!
“Well, that doesn’t make sense!” one might say. “How could a person be trapped and yet not even realize it?” Bevere addresses this when he writes, “One way the enemy keeps a person in an offended state is to keep the offense hidden, cloaked with pride. Pride will keep you from admitting your true condition.” (p. 7)
Pride then leads to selfishness, as we become more concerned with the preservation of ourselves than with the well-being of others. This selfishness causes the offended Christian to become focused inward and we lose sight of what God is doing in and through others. We become guarded and defensive; seeking to protect our “rights”, rather than with open arms being ready to embrace others and come to their defense! This selfish pride causes us to view ourselves as victims, but just because we may have been mistreated does not mean we suddenly have the right to hold on to an offense! For as Bevere writes, “If we don’t risk being hurt, we cannot give unconditional love. Unconditional love gives others the right to hurt us.” (p. 16)
THE RESULT OF OFFENSE
When people get offended, and hold on to the offense and let it grow and fester, it will infect them like a poison. They begin to believe everyone is out to get them. Obviously, this attitude makes it even more difficult for them to see where in their lives they need to grow, change and mature. As they continue to isolate themselves, seeking their own protection, they end up inviting abuse. If they do not soon recognize and put a stop to this destructive mindset, this can quickly become a circular pattern; take an offense, become defensive, seek isolation, invite abuse and then back to offense.
Proverbs 18:1 says, “A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; he rages against all wise judgment.” But, as Bevere writes,
“God never created us to live separately and independently of each other. He likes it when His children care for and nurture each other. He is frustrated when we...feel sorry for ourselves; making everyone else responsible for our happiness...an isolated person seeks only his own desire, not God’s. He receives no counsel and sets himself up for deception.” (p. 55)
Further on he adds,
“When you’re out of the will of God, you will not be a blessing or help to [others]...even the good relationships will be strained...Offended people react to the situation and do things that appear right even though they are not inspired by God. We are not called to react but to act.” (p. 50)
However, when we read Psalm 1:1-2 and 119:165 we see that it says, “Blessed is the man…[whose] delight is in the law of the Lord...great peace have they which love [or delight in] Thy law; and nothing shall offend them.” Bevere points out that when we choose to delight in the Word of God, even in the midst of adversity, we avoid being offended.
IS OFFENDING SOMEONE EVER ACCEPTABLE?
One of the many things I liked in this book was when Bevere showed, in chapters 9 and 10, the difference between: (a) Jesus being WILLING to offend various people because He knew it would either expose a deception or lie they had believed in error, or because He was not willing to bend or avoid the truth, and (b) Jesus being UNWILLING to offend someone if it would not have served a greater purpose...even if he would have been fully justified in doing so! It showed me: There is both a time to offend and a time when it is wiser not to offend.
I think most of us tend to avoid offending people at all costs, myself included. However, sometimes the action which would be the most beneficial for everyone may very well be taken offensively. The question is, “Are we more concerned with truth and the ultimate well-being of others, or with our reputations and what people think of us?” Yet, on the flip-side, there are other times when we act out of selfish, prideful motivations and put our “rights” before the needs of others and risk offending people unnecessarily, with no higher motivation in mind aside from our own self-centeredness, thus no benefit to anybody is gained. As Bevere points out, we would do well to learn from Jesus’ example in this regard: “...He chose to use His liberty and freedom to serve...He never wanted freedom to be a license to demand our rights and cause another to be offended and stumble” (pp. 113, 116)
NO GRAY AREA, NO MIDDLE GROUND, NO DOUBT ABOUT IT
One of the strongest statements John Bevere makes in this book, and possibly my favorite quote in the book, simply because of how bold and shocking it is to our western, privileged way of thinking, is on page 137 when he says, “Jesus eliminates any gray areas for grudges. In fact He says that our attitude is to be so far removed from avenging ourselves that we are willing to open ourselves to the possibility of being taken advantage of again.” Wow! There is no playing around with this statement, is there?! It flies right in the face of our culture’s popular, “Look out for Number One,” mantra, doesn’t it?! But, when we stop and think about Bevere’s statement...it is exactly the attitude of unconditional love Jesus took with us. He willingly went to the cross; laying down His life, though He was innocent. He took all our sin upon Himself; suffering through the worst possible torture and death. He paid the highest price...even while we rejected Him and His gift to us! (Romans 5:8) Now, if THAT was not love, what is?
One of the last things Bevere says in his book is this:
“If we keep the love of God as our motivation, we will not fail. Love never fails. When we love others the way Jesus loves us, we will be free even if the other person chooses not to be reconciled to us...the love of God is the key to freedom from the baited trap of offense. This must be an abounding love...that continually grows...so many in our society today are deceived by a superficial love, a love that talks but does not act. The love that will keep us from stumbling lays down its life selflessly—even for the good of an enemy. When we walk in this kind of love, we cannot be seduced into taking the bait of Satan.” (pp. 162–163)
ON A PERSONAL NOTE
At the time of writing this, I have only just finished reading THE BAIT OF SATAN and have not yet had an opportunity to speak with the people with whom I have held the biggest offense. I have, however, gone before the Lord in prayer; admitting my offenses to Him, forgiving those people who had hurt me, releasing them from any blame in my heart and cancelling any debt I felt they owed me. Almost immediately I began feeling the weight of my offenses lifting and a peace and joy fill my heart as I thought about each person and prayed for them and for our relationship to be healed, restored and strengthened. I know to see the full work of this restoration is a process and may take some time, but I am encouraged to feel such a difference already in my heart over the last two days since finishing Bevere’s book. I am now praying as God provides the opportunities, I would be able to speak with each of these people, to confess my offenses to them and seek their forgiveness. Hopefully, we will see our friendship strengthened and our ministry together bear fruit again...yet, even if they don’t receive my attempt to mend our relationship, I will know I have been freed from the trap of offense in which the enemy once imprisoned me!
I have been so blessed by the message of John Bevere’s book, THE BAIT OF SATAN, and hope to see God’s work of deliverance set many more people free from the trap of offense. I plan on recommending this book to others at my church, in my ministry and in my family. May God bless John Bevere for writing this timely and powerful book, and may God bless every believer who reads it and chooses to obey the Word of God and the principles in this book. May you find freedom and healing from the hurts and offenses of this world; and may you stay freed from the trap!
March 2, 2022
"So many in our society today are deceived by a superficial love, a love that talks but does not act. The love that will keep us from stumbling lays down its life selflessly-even for the good of an enemy. When we walk in this kind of love, we cannot be seduced into taking the bait of Satan." (John Bevere, The Bait of Satan)
I've seen this book for a while now whenever I've perused through the bookstore, and have always said to myself that this book looked interesting; however, I never did pick it up, until now! I'm glad I did because it is a powerful book on dealing with offense, which the author calls, "the bait of satan". The author says that offense is a tool of the devil to bring people into captivity. I don't know about you, but I don't want to be in captivity, I want to be free!
He says that you can divide all offended people into two major categories:
(1) those who have been treated unjustly; and
(2) those who believe they have been treated unjustly.
He says that group number two often is guided by inaccurate and distorted information, and they are hurt and their understanding is darkened because they judge by assumption, appearance and hearsay.
There were so many stories of freedom in this book, including the author's personal stories from his own life, but the bottom line and the conclusion of the matter is that we require to deal with offense in the right way to maintain our freedom and joy. This is done by walking in the love of God and forgiveness.
My favourite exercise in this book was asking the Holy Spirit to show me anyone in my life, past or present whom I offended or who offended me, and writing down that on this date I made a decision to forgive them...
I've seen this book for a while now whenever I've perused through the bookstore, and have always said to myself that this book looked interesting; however, I never did pick it up, until now! I'm glad I did because it is a powerful book on dealing with offense, which the author calls, "the bait of satan". The author says that offense is a tool of the devil to bring people into captivity. I don't know about you, but I don't want to be in captivity, I want to be free!
He says that you can divide all offended people into two major categories:
(1) those who have been treated unjustly; and
(2) those who believe they have been treated unjustly.
He says that group number two often is guided by inaccurate and distorted information, and they are hurt and their understanding is darkened because they judge by assumption, appearance and hearsay.
There were so many stories of freedom in this book, including the author's personal stories from his own life, but the bottom line and the conclusion of the matter is that we require to deal with offense in the right way to maintain our freedom and joy. This is done by walking in the love of God and forgiveness.
My favourite exercise in this book was asking the Holy Spirit to show me anyone in my life, past or present whom I offended or who offended me, and writing down that on this date I made a decision to forgive them...
February 10, 2017
This is yet another must read for all christians. I will have this as a yearly re read to keep the examples reveal at the forefront of my mind as I continue my walk with Christ.
Re-Read on February 9th 2017:
This is one of those books that you need to keep close and re read ever so often as a reminder of how the enemy causes us to get offended and also allows others to be offended. It shows you how to detect it and how to deal with it. Such an enlightening read.
Re-Read on February 9th 2017:
This is one of those books that you need to keep close and re read ever so often as a reminder of how the enemy causes us to get offended and also allows others to be offended. It shows you how to detect it and how to deal with it. Such an enlightening read.
December 2, 2018
For me this is one of the most important books I have to dato just read!!!
If of course you belong to the kind of people which never takes offense whatsever or the classic guy whos loved and appreciated by anyone....
Well, then this is no book for you, No Sir!!
But, please let me know on which planet you are living, because let me tell you, here in this old and mean earth sadly to say exists other rules and regulations.. fair play is a foreign word here!!
And what the heck.. I haven't made the rules, fellows!!
But honestly I'm sick and tyred of having to cope day by day with such disturbed personalities..
And I want to say that I'm not a peacekeeper, but a peacemaker!!
The difference here is that a peacekeeper wants to keep peace with everybody no matter what!!!
And the peacemaker wants also peace, but a peace with truth in it.. that's the kind of peace that I want to have with these disturbed entitys!!!
John Bevere is a christian writter, he has written also more books in this field of his expertice!!
And he is also indeed a connaisseur at how to handle the wounds inflicted by depraved and ruthless human entitys which are aiming at you to destroy your inner peace and stability!!!
Honestly folks, I'm totally feed up with this sort of crap!!!
Offenses will came every day, no way of avoiding it..
But, let me tell you this, folks.. if you mean that you don't need to give the right answer at how to deal with them, well, then you are doomed like the titanic to suffer shipwreck and havock!!!
Offenses are poisenous baits, if you feed on them, then invariable you'll became sick ..
Please, if it must be one book you had to read in this year, let it be these here!!!
That's how important I consider it!!
As said, Bevere is a christian, and this his book has the Scriptures as his foundation. No better foundation as that!!
You want to live free from arseholes trying to make you miserable by stealing your inner peace, then read this book...
It will be a light to your path!!!
I could say a lot more about "The Bait Of Satan", but I want you to read it!!!
So my full recommendation and happy reading of course..
Dean;))))
If of course you belong to the kind of people which never takes offense whatsever or the classic guy whos loved and appreciated by anyone....
Well, then this is no book for you, No Sir!!
But, please let me know on which planet you are living, because let me tell you, here in this old and mean earth sadly to say exists other rules and regulations.. fair play is a foreign word here!!
And what the heck.. I haven't made the rules, fellows!!
But honestly I'm sick and tyred of having to cope day by day with such disturbed personalities..
And I want to say that I'm not a peacekeeper, but a peacemaker!!
The difference here is that a peacekeeper wants to keep peace with everybody no matter what!!!
And the peacemaker wants also peace, but a peace with truth in it.. that's the kind of peace that I want to have with these disturbed entitys!!!
John Bevere is a christian writter, he has written also more books in this field of his expertice!!
And he is also indeed a connaisseur at how to handle the wounds inflicted by depraved and ruthless human entitys which are aiming at you to destroy your inner peace and stability!!!
Honestly folks, I'm totally feed up with this sort of crap!!!
Offenses will came every day, no way of avoiding it..
But, let me tell you this, folks.. if you mean that you don't need to give the right answer at how to deal with them, well, then you are doomed like the titanic to suffer shipwreck and havock!!!
Offenses are poisenous baits, if you feed on them, then invariable you'll became sick ..
Please, if it must be one book you had to read in this year, let it be these here!!!
That's how important I consider it!!
As said, Bevere is a christian, and this his book has the Scriptures as his foundation. No better foundation as that!!
You want to live free from arseholes trying to make you miserable by stealing your inner peace, then read this book...
It will be a light to your path!!!
I could say a lot more about "The Bait Of Satan", but I want you to read it!!!
So my full recommendation and happy reading of course..
Dean;))))
June 3, 2025
Go into this knowing that God is going to deal with some unforgiveness in your heart. No matter big or small it may seem, He will bring it up. So be prepared for this.
October 30, 2017
Bible Teacher Don Basham used to say that prophetic utterances were often like water from a muddy hose: First, you get a bunch of mud and yuck before pure water starts flowing. This is an apt description of this book if there was one. Unfortunately, it's just the opposite, in this case, the more it flows the more mud and yuck you get. "The Bait of Satan" is also an apt title because that's exactly what this book is: A little bit of truth buried underneath a mountain of error. There is great danger here my Christian friend!
THE GOOD
There is just no question that for the Christian we are required to forgive, it's simply not optional. John Bevere does well by citing the numerous passages in the Bible that say this. And, yes, the Bible is clear that unless and until we forgive it's like we're put into a prison of resentment where we hold the key[1] And yes, the Bible is clear that if we refuse to forgive then a root of bitterness can set in that may defile many. And yes, forgiveness is like forgiving a debt that's owed you - it is YOUR choice to give that gift to your debtors. Forgiveness IS a choice.[2] All this is good and true. And you now have the nuggets of truth that this book contains.
THE BAD
Now, the bad. This book epitomizes everything that's wrong with the Charismatic Movement - and I say this AS a Charismatic Christian.
First, the book is cover-to-cover filled with shameless self-promotion. At the end of each chapter is a "Testimony" - not of Jesus Christ, but of the author and this book. And this is on top of the shameless self-promotion of the author and this book that's actually IN the text of the book itself.
Second, the author's hermeneutics and exegesis are downright awful! Consider the "proof text" that he bases the thesis for the book on:
"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!"
-- Matthew 18:7 (KJV this is the version that the author uses)
However, the author has ripped the verse out of context and committed an equivocation fallacy by using the word "offence" here in the modern sense of "annoyance or resentment brought about by a perceived insult to or disregard for oneself or one's standards or principles" rather than it's true archaic, Jacobean English meaning "stumbling block" or "temptation".[3] Consider how the text is rendered in modern translations:
"Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come!"
(NIV)
"Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! It is necessary that stumbling blocks come, but woe to the person through whom they come."
(NET Bible)
"Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes!"
(ESV)
Further, when considered in its full and complete context the passage is clearly referring to temptation and coming to God like a child, not personal offense:
"Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
“If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to the one by whom the stumbling block comes!
“If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away; it is better for you to enter life maimed or lame than to have two hands or two feet and to be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into the hell of fire."
-- Matthew 18:4-9 (NRSV)
Third, the book is full of Charismatic experientialism in the form of a steady stream of anecdotes spiced with "God told me" and/or "God told my wife" accents. Fellow Charismatics, the problem here is that there is absolutely NO way to vet, confirm, or deny such claims. This type of thing plus $1.50 will get you a cup of coffee at Denny's - which is about what this type of "evidence" is worth. Stated plainly, "It just don't mean nothin'!" I know that Charismatic culture sucks this stuff down like Kool-Aid, but that's the truth.
Fourth, the author's theology and discernment is badly broken and in need of repair. Consider, this "gem" from the book:
"I heard an unusual testimony about a minister in the Philippines. Friends of mine who had known him from a previous ministry showed me an article telling about his experiences.
The man had resisted the call of God on his life for several years because of his business success. He was making a large amount of money. His disobedience eventually caught up with him, and he was rushed to the hospital because of heart failure.
He died on the operating table and found himself outside the gates of heaven. Jesus was standing there and dealt with him about his disobedience. The man pleaded with the Lord that if He would extend his life, he would serve Him. The Lord consented.
Before sending him back to his body, the Lord showed him a vision of hell. He saw his wife’s mother burning in the flames of hell.
He was amazed. She had said the “sinner’s prayer,” confessed to being a Christian, and had attended church. “Why is she in hell?” he asked the Lord.
The Lord told him that she had refused to forgive a relative and therefore could not be forgiven."
(John Bevere, "The Bait of Satan: Living Free From the Deadly Trap of Offense" (10th Anniversary Edition, 2004), Charisma House, pp.123-124; https://smile.amazon.com/Bait-Satan-L... )
Friends THAT is what's known as a False Vision! The Bible teaches that unforgiveness is a relational sin, not a damnable, or eternal sin. Stated plainly, nowhere does the Bible say that one will be sent to hell for refusing to forgive. As John MacArthur notes well in his study notes for the Matthew 6:15 passage being referred to here that says, "neither will your Father forgive your trespasses":
"This is not to suggest that God will withdraw justification from those who have already received the free pardon He extends to all believers. Forgiveness in that sense— a permanent and complete acquittal from the guilt and ultimate penalty of sin— belongs to all who are in Christ (cf. John 5: 24; Rom. 8: 1; Eph. 1: 7). Yet, Scripture also teaches that God chastens His children who disobey (Heb. 12: 5– 7). Believers are to confess their sins in order to obtain a day-to-day cleansing (1 John 1: 9). This sort of forgiveness is a simple washing from the worldly defilements of sin, not a repeat of the wholesale cleansing from sin’s corruption that comes with justification. It is like a washing of the feet rather than a bath (cf. John 13: 10). Forgiveness in this latter sense is what God threatens to withhold from Christians who refuse to forgive others (cf. 18: 23– 35)."
(NKJV, "The MacArthur Study Bible, eBook: Revised and Updated Edition" (Kindle Locations 147958-147966). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition; https://smile.amazon.com/NKJV-MacArth...)
And the ESV Global Study Bible agrees with MacArthur:
"MATTHEW— NOTE ON 6:14–15 Forgive your trespasses refers to restoring relationship following sin, not salvation."
(ESV Bibles by Crossway. "ESV Global Study Bible" (Kindle Locations 228065-228067). Crossway. Kindle Edition; https://smile.amazon.com/Global-Study...)
THE UGLY
Much of the above is probably due to the fact that the author is a former protege of heretic and charlatan Benny Hinn - a fact that he conveniently fails to disclose. There's a HUGE red flag waving right there. Given that, suddenly passages in the book like this one take on a whole new meaning:
"I was in a church for several years. The pastor was one of the best preachers in America. When I first attended that church, I would sit with my mouth open in awe of the biblical teaching that came from his mouth.
As time passed, because of my position of serving the pastor, I was close enough to see his flaws. I questioned some of his ministry decisions. I became critical and judgmental, and offense set in. He preached, and I sensed no inspiration or anointing. His preaching no longer ministered to me."
(John Bevere, "The Bait of Satan: Living Free From the Deadly Trap of Offense" (10th Anniversary Edition, 2004), Charisma House, p.49; https://smile.amazon.com/Bait-Satan-L... )
Well, if that "one of the best preachers in American" was Benny Hinn[4] I can only say, "Thank God, you saw the light! Did you confront him on his heresy and charlatanism?" However, Bevere then goes on to explain how after leaving this church, he (wait for it, wait for it, wait for it) went back because, as he explains (starting on page 47) and using the stories of Samuel and Eli, then David and Saul, God can use corrupt Christian Leaders. Friends, I can only hope that Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, Moonies, and the members of other cults don't heed this terrible advice![5]
Which brings me to the biggest problem with this book: Its teachings can lead to a lack of boundaries and codependency.
I was in the Shepherding Movement of the 1970's and 80's[6] and experienced abusive churches first hand. I stayed for 13-years too long because of a combination of immaturity, a lack of healthy boundaries, and heavy codependency issues due to the enmeshed culture of my family of origin. I can make that assessment without passion or pain now because of God's sovereignty as well as God's process of redemption and refinement in my life. Friends that process only began AFTER I was out.
Bevere's book is completely imbalanced because it fails to recognize this necessary part of the recovery process. Just like an alcoholic doesn't get sober by staying in the bar, a codependent Christian doesn't get healthy by staying in an Abusive Church. As the late Ron Enroth explained in his classic book "Churches That Abuse":
"Members of all abusive churches soon learn that the pastor or leader is beyond confrontation. As one former member of an abusive congregation put it, "Since no one in the church was allowed to murmur and complain, or to disagree with the pastor, there were many, like myself, who suffered in silence lest we incur God's anger." All problems that befall the group are the fault of members who violate the infallible rules. Accordingly, members experience increased self-doubt, helplessness, and insecurity.
Often times the deviant is barraged with attempts to get him to admit that he is guilty of crimes that he does not see. If he says that he is doubting the leadership, he has sinned because you are never to doubt the leadership. If he has talked to someone else about his concerns, he has sinned because you are never to plant "seeds of doubt" in others' minds about the leadership and/or the sect. If, however, the deviant does not agree with the definitions of his behavior that is placed by the group, he is immediately considered "unrepentant" and "unsubmissive...
One need not have psychological training to understand that such a procedure also operates as an effective control mechanism within a church. Those who are the "boat-rockers," those who raise uncomfortable questions and who challenge the leadership in any way, are prevented from sharing their legitimate concerns and criticism with other members. Dissent is muffled, and disinformation can be "spiritualized" or manipulated by the leadership."
(Ronald M. Enroth, "Churches That Abuse", p.81 and p.95; https://smile.amazon.com/Churches-Tha...)
Further, John Bevere never addresses the issue of leaving a church because it's teaching heresy. Much of my work these days is in Mormon Studies and I cringe at the thought of Mormon leaders or Mormon Apologists getting their hands on this horribly flawed and imbalanced book.[7] Strangely, the thought or possibility of such a thing never seems to have occurred to the author.
Friends, this is a dangerous book. I do NOT recommend it. Rather I recommend the books and resources that I have listed in the NOTES section of this review. In addition, I recommend one more: The classic book "Boundaries" by John Townsend and Henry Cloud; https://smile.amazon.com/Boundaries-U...
Now, I understand that this review may seem like a voice crying in the wilderness being drown out by all the other voices that are praising it loudly in all those other reviews here, but I beg you to listen to me. Consider this: There's a reason why America loves Joel Osteen's ear-tickling feel good heresy and hates the sound wisdom and theology of other voices. I plead with you in Jesus' Name to not listen to the siren's song, the only thing awaiting you there are shipwrecking rocks.
NOTES
[1] No one has said or taught this better than Bob Mumford in his book, "The Prison of Resentment"; http://lifechangers.org/teachings/the...
[2] No one has said or taught this better than Robert D Enright in "Forgiveness is a Choice: A Step-by-Step Process for Resolving Anger and Restoring Hope"; https://smile.amazon.com/Forgiveness-...
[3] See Google definition https://www.google.com/search?q=defin...
[4] If it was, it's an assessment that I would vehemently disagree with! I think that anyone with even a modicum of biblical literacy and good theology would.
[5] Please note that I think that the author John Bevere got this concept from Gene Edwards' classic books "A Tale of Three Kings" (https://smile.amazon.com/Tale-Three-K...) and "The Prisoner in the Third Cell" (https://smile.amazon.com/Prisoner-Thi...) however, Edwards' books stress healthy boundaries and truth throughout, Bevere does not. If you want this wisdom, read Edwards and skip Bevere.
[6] See Wikipedia "Shepherding Movement" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepher... and David S. Moore, "Shepherding Movement (Journal of Pentecostal Theology Supplement)" https://smile.amazon.com/Shepherding-...
[7] To this point, I recommend "When to Leave a Church" by R.C. Sproul; http://www.ligonier.org/learn/series/...
THE GOOD
There is just no question that for the Christian we are required to forgive, it's simply not optional. John Bevere does well by citing the numerous passages in the Bible that say this. And, yes, the Bible is clear that unless and until we forgive it's like we're put into a prison of resentment where we hold the key[1] And yes, the Bible is clear that if we refuse to forgive then a root of bitterness can set in that may defile many. And yes, forgiveness is like forgiving a debt that's owed you - it is YOUR choice to give that gift to your debtors. Forgiveness IS a choice.[2] All this is good and true. And you now have the nuggets of truth that this book contains.
THE BAD
Now, the bad. This book epitomizes everything that's wrong with the Charismatic Movement - and I say this AS a Charismatic Christian.
First, the book is cover-to-cover filled with shameless self-promotion. At the end of each chapter is a "Testimony" - not of Jesus Christ, but of the author and this book. And this is on top of the shameless self-promotion of the author and this book that's actually IN the text of the book itself.
Second, the author's hermeneutics and exegesis are downright awful! Consider the "proof text" that he bases the thesis for the book on:
"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!"
-- Matthew 18:7 (KJV this is the version that the author uses)
However, the author has ripped the verse out of context and committed an equivocation fallacy by using the word "offence" here in the modern sense of "annoyance or resentment brought about by a perceived insult to or disregard for oneself or one's standards or principles" rather than it's true archaic, Jacobean English meaning "stumbling block" or "temptation".[3] Consider how the text is rendered in modern translations:
"Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come!"
(NIV)
"Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! It is necessary that stumbling blocks come, but woe to the person through whom they come."
(NET Bible)
"Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes!"
(ESV)
Further, when considered in its full and complete context the passage is clearly referring to temptation and coming to God like a child, not personal offense:
"Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.
“If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of stumbling blocks! Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to the one by whom the stumbling block comes!
“If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away; it is better for you to enter life maimed or lame than to have two hands or two feet and to be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into the hell of fire."
-- Matthew 18:4-9 (NRSV)
Third, the book is full of Charismatic experientialism in the form of a steady stream of anecdotes spiced with "God told me" and/or "God told my wife" accents. Fellow Charismatics, the problem here is that there is absolutely NO way to vet, confirm, or deny such claims. This type of thing plus $1.50 will get you a cup of coffee at Denny's - which is about what this type of "evidence" is worth. Stated plainly, "It just don't mean nothin'!" I know that Charismatic culture sucks this stuff down like Kool-Aid, but that's the truth.
Fourth, the author's theology and discernment is badly broken and in need of repair. Consider, this "gem" from the book:
"I heard an unusual testimony about a minister in the Philippines. Friends of mine who had known him from a previous ministry showed me an article telling about his experiences.
The man had resisted the call of God on his life for several years because of his business success. He was making a large amount of money. His disobedience eventually caught up with him, and he was rushed to the hospital because of heart failure.
He died on the operating table and found himself outside the gates of heaven. Jesus was standing there and dealt with him about his disobedience. The man pleaded with the Lord that if He would extend his life, he would serve Him. The Lord consented.
Before sending him back to his body, the Lord showed him a vision of hell. He saw his wife’s mother burning in the flames of hell.
He was amazed. She had said the “sinner’s prayer,” confessed to being a Christian, and had attended church. “Why is she in hell?” he asked the Lord.
The Lord told him that she had refused to forgive a relative and therefore could not be forgiven."
(John Bevere, "The Bait of Satan: Living Free From the Deadly Trap of Offense" (10th Anniversary Edition, 2004), Charisma House, pp.123-124; https://smile.amazon.com/Bait-Satan-L... )
Friends THAT is what's known as a False Vision! The Bible teaches that unforgiveness is a relational sin, not a damnable, or eternal sin. Stated plainly, nowhere does the Bible say that one will be sent to hell for refusing to forgive. As John MacArthur notes well in his study notes for the Matthew 6:15 passage being referred to here that says, "neither will your Father forgive your trespasses":
"This is not to suggest that God will withdraw justification from those who have already received the free pardon He extends to all believers. Forgiveness in that sense— a permanent and complete acquittal from the guilt and ultimate penalty of sin— belongs to all who are in Christ (cf. John 5: 24; Rom. 8: 1; Eph. 1: 7). Yet, Scripture also teaches that God chastens His children who disobey (Heb. 12: 5– 7). Believers are to confess their sins in order to obtain a day-to-day cleansing (1 John 1: 9). This sort of forgiveness is a simple washing from the worldly defilements of sin, not a repeat of the wholesale cleansing from sin’s corruption that comes with justification. It is like a washing of the feet rather than a bath (cf. John 13: 10). Forgiveness in this latter sense is what God threatens to withhold from Christians who refuse to forgive others (cf. 18: 23– 35)."
(NKJV, "The MacArthur Study Bible, eBook: Revised and Updated Edition" (Kindle Locations 147958-147966). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition; https://smile.amazon.com/NKJV-MacArth...)
And the ESV Global Study Bible agrees with MacArthur:
"MATTHEW— NOTE ON 6:14–15 Forgive your trespasses refers to restoring relationship following sin, not salvation."
(ESV Bibles by Crossway. "ESV Global Study Bible" (Kindle Locations 228065-228067). Crossway. Kindle Edition; https://smile.amazon.com/Global-Study...)
THE UGLY
Much of the above is probably due to the fact that the author is a former protege of heretic and charlatan Benny Hinn - a fact that he conveniently fails to disclose. There's a HUGE red flag waving right there. Given that, suddenly passages in the book like this one take on a whole new meaning:
"I was in a church for several years. The pastor was one of the best preachers in America. When I first attended that church, I would sit with my mouth open in awe of the biblical teaching that came from his mouth.
As time passed, because of my position of serving the pastor, I was close enough to see his flaws. I questioned some of his ministry decisions. I became critical and judgmental, and offense set in. He preached, and I sensed no inspiration or anointing. His preaching no longer ministered to me."
(John Bevere, "The Bait of Satan: Living Free From the Deadly Trap of Offense" (10th Anniversary Edition, 2004), Charisma House, p.49; https://smile.amazon.com/Bait-Satan-L... )
Well, if that "one of the best preachers in American" was Benny Hinn[4] I can only say, "Thank God, you saw the light! Did you confront him on his heresy and charlatanism?" However, Bevere then goes on to explain how after leaving this church, he (wait for it, wait for it, wait for it) went back because, as he explains (starting on page 47) and using the stories of Samuel and Eli, then David and Saul, God can use corrupt Christian Leaders. Friends, I can only hope that Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, Moonies, and the members of other cults don't heed this terrible advice![5]
Which brings me to the biggest problem with this book: Its teachings can lead to a lack of boundaries and codependency.
I was in the Shepherding Movement of the 1970's and 80's[6] and experienced abusive churches first hand. I stayed for 13-years too long because of a combination of immaturity, a lack of healthy boundaries, and heavy codependency issues due to the enmeshed culture of my family of origin. I can make that assessment without passion or pain now because of God's sovereignty as well as God's process of redemption and refinement in my life. Friends that process only began AFTER I was out.
Bevere's book is completely imbalanced because it fails to recognize this necessary part of the recovery process. Just like an alcoholic doesn't get sober by staying in the bar, a codependent Christian doesn't get healthy by staying in an Abusive Church. As the late Ron Enroth explained in his classic book "Churches That Abuse":
"Members of all abusive churches soon learn that the pastor or leader is beyond confrontation. As one former member of an abusive congregation put it, "Since no one in the church was allowed to murmur and complain, or to disagree with the pastor, there were many, like myself, who suffered in silence lest we incur God's anger." All problems that befall the group are the fault of members who violate the infallible rules. Accordingly, members experience increased self-doubt, helplessness, and insecurity.
Often times the deviant is barraged with attempts to get him to admit that he is guilty of crimes that he does not see. If he says that he is doubting the leadership, he has sinned because you are never to doubt the leadership. If he has talked to someone else about his concerns, he has sinned because you are never to plant "seeds of doubt" in others' minds about the leadership and/or the sect. If, however, the deviant does not agree with the definitions of his behavior that is placed by the group, he is immediately considered "unrepentant" and "unsubmissive...
One need not have psychological training to understand that such a procedure also operates as an effective control mechanism within a church. Those who are the "boat-rockers," those who raise uncomfortable questions and who challenge the leadership in any way, are prevented from sharing their legitimate concerns and criticism with other members. Dissent is muffled, and disinformation can be "spiritualized" or manipulated by the leadership."
(Ronald M. Enroth, "Churches That Abuse", p.81 and p.95; https://smile.amazon.com/Churches-Tha...)
Further, John Bevere never addresses the issue of leaving a church because it's teaching heresy. Much of my work these days is in Mormon Studies and I cringe at the thought of Mormon leaders or Mormon Apologists getting their hands on this horribly flawed and imbalanced book.[7] Strangely, the thought or possibility of such a thing never seems to have occurred to the author.
Friends, this is a dangerous book. I do NOT recommend it. Rather I recommend the books and resources that I have listed in the NOTES section of this review. In addition, I recommend one more: The classic book "Boundaries" by John Townsend and Henry Cloud; https://smile.amazon.com/Boundaries-U...
Now, I understand that this review may seem like a voice crying in the wilderness being drown out by all the other voices that are praising it loudly in all those other reviews here, but I beg you to listen to me. Consider this: There's a reason why America loves Joel Osteen's ear-tickling feel good heresy and hates the sound wisdom and theology of other voices. I plead with you in Jesus' Name to not listen to the siren's song, the only thing awaiting you there are shipwrecking rocks.
NOTES
[1] No one has said or taught this better than Bob Mumford in his book, "The Prison of Resentment"; http://lifechangers.org/teachings/the...
[2] No one has said or taught this better than Robert D Enright in "Forgiveness is a Choice: A Step-by-Step Process for Resolving Anger and Restoring Hope"; https://smile.amazon.com/Forgiveness-...
[3] See Google definition https://www.google.com/search?q=defin...
[4] If it was, it's an assessment that I would vehemently disagree with! I think that anyone with even a modicum of biblical literacy and good theology would.
[5] Please note that I think that the author John Bevere got this concept from Gene Edwards' classic books "A Tale of Three Kings" (https://smile.amazon.com/Tale-Three-K...) and "The Prisoner in the Third Cell" (https://smile.amazon.com/Prisoner-Thi...) however, Edwards' books stress healthy boundaries and truth throughout, Bevere does not. If you want this wisdom, read Edwards and skip Bevere.
[6] See Wikipedia "Shepherding Movement" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepher... and David S. Moore, "Shepherding Movement (Journal of Pentecostal Theology Supplement)" https://smile.amazon.com/Shepherding-...
[7] To this point, I recommend "When to Leave a Church" by R.C. Sproul; http://www.ligonier.org/learn/series/...
Read
January 9, 2013This is a book that everyone should read... Seriously! It is about what happens when we take Offense and how Satan will use that against us in our own lives. It sounds intense but if you want some relief in your life and growth, this is a MUST READ! It's teaching me sooooo much and praise God for that!
August 1, 2023
1⭐️
There was actually a lot of good stuff in this book about not taking offence and forgiving….
HOWEVER,
I cannot give it higher than a 1⭐️ because John preaches that you most definitely can lose your salvation, which is NOT Biblical…..
So sad to lead people away from the true Gospel....
also, He promoted speaking in tongues without any kind of interpreter or Biblical foundation.
Quotes I DID like:
"Pride keeps you from dealing with truth. It distorts your vision. You never change when you think everything's fine. Pride hardens your heart and dims the eye of your understanding. it keeps you from the change of heart; repentance, that will set you free"..."Pride causes you to view yourself as a victim" (Chapter 3)
"It is the revelation of truth that brings freedom to us. When the spirit of God shows us our sin, He always does it in such a way that seems separate from us. This brings conviction not condemnation" (Chapter 3)
"No longer did I see it as a failure when love wasn't returned from the person I was giving it to, it freed me to love that person even more." (Chapter 4)
"The more we expect, the greater the potential offense" (Chapter 4)
"Acquiring an offense keeps you from seeing your own character flaws because blame is deferred to another" (Chapter 7)
"Freedom in serving, but bondage in slavery"..."A slave HAS to, a servant GETS to; a slave does the minimum requirement, a servant reaches the maximum potential; a slave goes one mile, a servant goes the extra mile; a slave feels robbed, a servant gives; a slave is bound, a servant is free; a slave fights for his rights, a servant lays down his rights" (Chapter 12)
"Medical doctors & scientists have linked unforgiveness and biterness with certain diseases" (Chapter 13)
"We should not go to our brother who has offended us until we have decided to forgive him from our hearts, no matter how he responds to us" (Chapter 16)
There was actually a lot of good stuff in this book about not taking offence and forgiving….
HOWEVER,
I cannot give it higher than a 1⭐️ because John preaches that you most definitely can lose your salvation, which is NOT Biblical…..
So sad to lead people away from the true Gospel....
also, He promoted speaking in tongues without any kind of interpreter or Biblical foundation.
Quotes I DID like:
"Pride keeps you from dealing with truth. It distorts your vision. You never change when you think everything's fine. Pride hardens your heart and dims the eye of your understanding. it keeps you from the change of heart; repentance, that will set you free"..."Pride causes you to view yourself as a victim" (Chapter 3)
"It is the revelation of truth that brings freedom to us. When the spirit of God shows us our sin, He always does it in such a way that seems separate from us. This brings conviction not condemnation" (Chapter 3)
"No longer did I see it as a failure when love wasn't returned from the person I was giving it to, it freed me to love that person even more." (Chapter 4)
"The more we expect, the greater the potential offense" (Chapter 4)
"Acquiring an offense keeps you from seeing your own character flaws because blame is deferred to another" (Chapter 7)
"Freedom in serving, but bondage in slavery"..."A slave HAS to, a servant GETS to; a slave does the minimum requirement, a servant reaches the maximum potential; a slave goes one mile, a servant goes the extra mile; a slave feels robbed, a servant gives; a slave is bound, a servant is free; a slave fights for his rights, a servant lays down his rights" (Chapter 12)
"Medical doctors & scientists have linked unforgiveness and biterness with certain diseases" (Chapter 13)
"We should not go to our brother who has offended us until we have decided to forgive him from our hearts, no matter how he responds to us" (Chapter 16)
June 12, 2025
The author approaches a very good theme in Christianity: getting/being offended, which, to be honest, is an issue I have . In fact just the other days I met with a colleague who disappointed me greatly in her attitude after praying for an all year that God gave her a baby and God as always was good. The thing is that she doesn't know Lord Jesus and despite God making the miracle, she still doesn't bother in knowing Him. After the huge disappointment God took me under His wing , showed me to let go, to acknowledge that the rest is in His hands and pray for her.
The thing is I think from my experience is that you can't tell people outside of Christ about Holly things because they cannot understand them so in a way I detached myself and I cannot be with her like before. Maybe I am wrong but I think my role in her life ended and I know she is in God's hands.
Now, about the things that bugged me in this book is that the author used only the verses from different translations to show that they indicate the offense which is pretty weird... is like he twisted different verses by using different translations just to prove that Lord Jesus was referring to modern offenses.
Another thing I disapprove is staying in a church that teaches false teachings that do not build you up or abuse you. Sorry, but not all churches are the body of Christ ! He basically says do not search, do not have discernment , do not seek if they are wolves in sheep clothing . This is total against what Lord Jesus tells us ...
So yeah, I am not recommending this book to baby Christians.
The thing is I think from my experience is that you can't tell people outside of Christ about Holly things because they cannot understand them so in a way I detached myself and I cannot be with her like before. Maybe I am wrong but I think my role in her life ended and I know she is in God's hands.
Now, about the things that bugged me in this book is that the author used only the verses from different translations to show that they indicate the offense which is pretty weird... is like he twisted different verses by using different translations just to prove that Lord Jesus was referring to modern offenses.
Another thing I disapprove is staying in a church that teaches false teachings that do not build you up or abuse you. Sorry, but not all churches are the body of Christ ! He basically says do not search, do not have discernment , do not seek if they are wolves in sheep clothing . This is total against what Lord Jesus tells us ...
So yeah, I am not recommending this book to baby Christians.
September 23, 2021
Read with care. It has good intentions but if misread/misunderstood it can lead to people never questioning their leaders, or keeping their leaders in check, despite good intentions. The book could be more nuanced in that respect, and could spend more time addressing how a leader is to humble oneself.
October 24, 2019
I’m torn as to what to rank this. I think it has some good points about forgiveness, what to do if offended or if you offend someone but I was taken aback at his attitude and stories at times. If a church is offensive, not following truth you should stay anyway? I don’t know what to think about all the direct conversations he had with God.
May 11, 2020
I made it 75% of the way through this book before having to put it down and walk away. There are for sure some good things to think about, but the reader needs to be aware that Bevere was ordained in the Word of Faith denomination and does not believe in the eternal security of the believer.
January 2, 2009
Offense leads to sin, which leads to separation from God and others. We are so easily offended, but this book opened my eyes to the ways in which to overcome offense.
August 29, 2021
This book has a needed message & I found it personally convicting. The overarching message is that offenses —whether true betrayals or perceived slights — & the fruit they produce (bitterness, resentment, self-pity, etc) are perhaps more of a threat to your spiritual health than anything, aka “the bait of satan.” If you wait for others to acknowledge & validate your hurts, you’re going to be doing a lot of navel-gazing & not living.
Ok, that’s a good message, but the tone was annoying. Definitely some oversimplification (in abuse situations, for instance, you can speak out, leave, etc whereas the author does the whole “stick it out & let God” schtick). There’s not a ton of compassion for those who have been deeply wounded; theres’s a lot of “use all this suffering to become an obedient servant!” I mean, yeah, but let’s not trivialize legitimate wrongs. Last, the author gives lots of examples of friends, church members & people in the Bible who are little offended babies, while he himself is mainly a spiritual hero! He doesn’t take the bait of Satan! (Eye roll)
I’m glad I read the book, but I only recommend it with asterisks that it’s one of 20th century evangelicalism’s finest/worst.
Ok, that’s a good message, but the tone was annoying. Definitely some oversimplification (in abuse situations, for instance, you can speak out, leave, etc whereas the author does the whole “stick it out & let God” schtick). There’s not a ton of compassion for those who have been deeply wounded; theres’s a lot of “use all this suffering to become an obedient servant!” I mean, yeah, but let’s not trivialize legitimate wrongs. Last, the author gives lots of examples of friends, church members & people in the Bible who are little offended babies, while he himself is mainly a spiritual hero! He doesn’t take the bait of Satan! (Eye roll)
I’m glad I read the book, but I only recommend it with asterisks that it’s one of 20th century evangelicalism’s finest/worst.
October 27, 2023
John Bevere is a new Author to me. John talks about the deceptive trap of offense. He explains the pain and trauma we feel when our brothers seek to destroy us like in the story of Joseph and when father-figures betray us like in the story of David. Bevere warns us that God will avenge his servants and that it is unrighteous for God's servants to avenge themselves. Bevere talks about the difference between Judas versus Simon Peter, two men who betrayed Jesus but experienced two completely different endings. Bevere explains why sometimes those who serve the Lord experience personal difficulties. He warns the reader not to compromise truth in order to keep people from being offended, saying that Jesus offended the Pharisees, his own hometown and his own family members. The Author encourages us to lay down our rights to serve others. Chapter Eleven is all about the topic of forgiveness and Chapter Fourteen is all about seeking Reconciliation. Bevere says that there is Healing in Confrontation and Maturing through Hardships. My book had a devotional guide in the back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2018
Scripture is taken out of context in every single chapter. That sent my red flag up sky high. In chapter one the author informs the reader that 2 Timothy 3 is speaking of Christians, then in chapter two he changes his mind -- 2 Timothy 3 is speaking of unbelievers.
The author tries really hard to use Scripture to support his views, using both New and Old Testament references. But he twists Scripture and adds his own spin. Some of his ideas regarding offense are helpful, but he lost my respect for his work by his treatment of Scripture.
The author tries really hard to use Scripture to support his views, using both New and Old Testament references. But he twists Scripture and adds his own spin. Some of his ideas regarding offense are helpful, but he lost my respect for his work by his treatment of Scripture.
March 14, 2013
In war the enemy gets the upperhand by cutting off communication amongst the soliders. Without communication, one is often alone without any idea of what should be done next. Offense is the tactic Satan uses to cut communication and create separation. At that point, he can attack and destroy quickly, swiftly and without interference. This book gives tons of examples and situations backed by the Word to help us understand, recognize and reject the bait of satan.
March 30, 2020
Very mixed feelings on this book. The author makes some good points, and the last chapter is worth the price of admission. However, he really plays fast and loose with his interpretation of scripture. That apparent carelessness in handling the Bible made me very uncomfortable, I think he could've made some of the same points with a much more reliable hermeneutic.
February 17, 2022
Excellent topic, some great points...but I don't fully agree with the author's general theology as shown in other resources, so just be discerning.
March 8, 2018
This book should be REQUIRED READING for everyone.
September 20, 2022
An inspirational informative book on the topics of being offended, forgiving, reconciling and living a better life.
This is an easy-to-read book that I read as a daily devotional. It is immersed with quotes from the Bible that expand into real life stores with advice on how to lead and live a better life as a Christian believer.
This book is geared towards any Christian faith. Super easy to follow and very inspirational!
A good read for anytime of the year, but it would make a great book to read during the Lenten season as a group or individually. My copy of the book was the 10th anniversary edition that contained a 30 day devotional supplement. The supplement ties into the main chapters of the book and is a workbook with space to write thoughts.
I really liked the title, The Bait of Satan. It’s a catchy title but very true on how Satan tries to separate us from God. As the author, John Bevere points out that the things in life that seem so innocent, really aren’t very innocent, but are Satan’s lies and traps.
So many good points were made that apply to every day living!
This is an easy-to-read book that I read as a daily devotional. It is immersed with quotes from the Bible that expand into real life stores with advice on how to lead and live a better life as a Christian believer.
This book is geared towards any Christian faith. Super easy to follow and very inspirational!
A good read for anytime of the year, but it would make a great book to read during the Lenten season as a group or individually. My copy of the book was the 10th anniversary edition that contained a 30 day devotional supplement. The supplement ties into the main chapters of the book and is a workbook with space to write thoughts.
I really liked the title, The Bait of Satan. It’s a catchy title but very true on how Satan tries to separate us from God. As the author, John Bevere points out that the things in life that seem so innocent, really aren’t very innocent, but are Satan’s lies and traps.
So many good points were made that apply to every day living!
January 23, 2025
Amazing book on offense and forgiveness! I would recommend to every Christian even if you aren’t struggling with unforgiveness or offense right now, you likely will if you are living in a world where people exist. Personally felt convicted while reading this book for the times when I’ve coddled unforgiveness in others in the name of empathy. Jesus is pretty clear of what our fate will be when we withhold forgiveness from others and this book really shook me back into reality on that one. 10/10
August 24, 2024
Update on 3rd read: Still convicting and I still love it.
The most effective way for the enemy to blind us is to cause us to focus on ourselves
Pride causes you to view yourself as a victim…you believe in your innocence and withhold forgiveness but twi wrongs don’t make a right.
Sow the love of God and your will reap the love of God
Do you have a “right” to be offended by God or man? Look at the life of Joseph
There is a false sense of self protection in harboring an offense. It keeps you from seeing your own character flaws because the blame is deferred to another.
When the Lord says something, He means it. (Matt 6:14-15). If you have a hard time forgiving, think about the reality of hell and the love of God that saved you from it. When we refuse to forgive, we are seeking vengeance (which is mine saith the Lord)
Jesus did NOT wait for us to ask forgiveness
Often we judge ourselves by our intentions and others by their actions!
We are to imitate God and extend reconciliation to a brother who sins against us. The goodness of God within is will draw our brother to repentance and restoration. My attitude must be one of humility, gentleness, and long-suffering.
The most effective way for the enemy to blind us is to cause us to focus on ourselves
Pride causes you to view yourself as a victim…you believe in your innocence and withhold forgiveness but twi wrongs don’t make a right.
Sow the love of God and your will reap the love of God
Do you have a “right” to be offended by God or man? Look at the life of Joseph
There is a false sense of self protection in harboring an offense. It keeps you from seeing your own character flaws because the blame is deferred to another.
When the Lord says something, He means it. (Matt 6:14-15). If you have a hard time forgiving, think about the reality of hell and the love of God that saved you from it. When we refuse to forgive, we are seeking vengeance (which is mine saith the Lord)
Jesus did NOT wait for us to ask forgiveness
Often we judge ourselves by our intentions and others by their actions!
We are to imitate God and extend reconciliation to a brother who sins against us. The goodness of God within is will draw our brother to repentance and restoration. My attitude must be one of humility, gentleness, and long-suffering.
December 10, 2023
This was my first book by this author. The focus is keeping our hearts free from offense. Several examples from the authors life were given, and he stayed very consistent with this theme throughout the book, not deviating into other topics.
It hasn't been often that I've read a non fiction Christian book where the authors interpretation of scripture was one that I don't share or have ever heard anyone else preach. But this was my experience with this book, relating to multiple scriptures. I don't doubt the authors understanding of scripture, I just wish since his thinking seems to be out of the box relating to some scriptures, he would have given more scriptural examples of how he arrived at some of the interpretations and conclusions he was sharing.
Chapter 13 was especially good. It was focused on keeping a clean, right and humble heart before God no matter the cost. I felt like chapter 13 was very clear and really communicated the point of what he was trying to make. I did think some of the other chapters could have been condensed and wasn't sure how I felt about the testimonies over the book at the end of each chapter.
It hasn't been often that I've read a non fiction Christian book where the authors interpretation of scripture was one that I don't share or have ever heard anyone else preach. But this was my experience with this book, relating to multiple scriptures. I don't doubt the authors understanding of scripture, I just wish since his thinking seems to be out of the box relating to some scriptures, he would have given more scriptural examples of how he arrived at some of the interpretations and conclusions he was sharing.
Chapter 13 was especially good. It was focused on keeping a clean, right and humble heart before God no matter the cost. I felt like chapter 13 was very clear and really communicated the point of what he was trying to make. I did think some of the other chapters could have been condensed and wasn't sure how I felt about the testimonies over the book at the end of each chapter.
September 25, 2017
Every person on God's plant is subject to being offended. Read how God expects us to handle it versus the enemy's expectation. Everyone should read this book but especially every church member or those who have been hurt by "the church". Absolutely the best book I have ever read!
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January 30, 2025If you're a Christian who is prone to unforgiveness or holding grudges, I highly recommend reading The Bait of Satan. The Holy Spirit used this book to convict me in a mighty way, effectively ending a streak of bitterness I've held against someone for over a decade. I don't often say books are life-changing, but through God speaking to me through the book, this one was for me.
April 7, 2025
Finished this yesterday. It's an absolute joy of a read. The type of book that really convicts you and makes you examine yourself. I may read this every year. I plan to re-read it in May when I do the devotional guide that's in the book. Highly recommend for church leaders, parents and every person on the earth.
January 15, 2024
A great study on how not to let Satan use offense to destroy our relationships with others and God. It's not a sit down and read book but a read to study and learn. I highly suggest also reading the study workbook and watching the videos.
August 11, 2025
Writer made some good points but it was mostly Christian based and I’m not a Christian and reading this after Malcom X probably wasn’t the best idea, from what I learned from his book about Christianity
December 9, 2024
This is a book I will re-read yearly and recommend! Taught me what maturity in Christ truly looks like and the dangers of offense! Our Lord truly loves us all…
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