Scandalize (σκανδαλίζω)

The verb 'I scandalize' (σκανδαλίζω) conveys the act of committing a shocking offense that outrages a person's moral sensibility. It does not inherently imply that a sin has been committed, although, in context, it may indeed refer to a sinful act that causes a person to be scandalized. In many of our English translations, σκανδαλον (skandalon) is often incorrectly rendered as "sin," which causes confusion concerning its meaning.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks of a man scandalizing himself when he looks at a woman for the intent of desiring her for adultery, stating that this man has already committed adultery in his heart (Matthew 5:28). This verse is frequently cited to suggest that we can sin in our minds, even though other Scriptures refute this concept (1 John 3:4; 1 Corinthians 6:18; Matthew 15:11). However, it is crucial to note that Jesus does not use the word "sin" in this instance; instead, He speaks of the man scandalizing himself.