What does it mean to be offended by the gospel?

To be offended by the gospel often stems from the uncomfortable truth that it calls for a complete surrender to Christ, negating any personal merit or works-based righteousness. Natural man finds it difficult to accept that salvation is freely given, as it challenges the pride rooted in self-sufficiency. In the sermon, it is depicted that many, like the Jews in Jesus' time, wrestled with the implications of grace, often preferring their own works and traditions over the simple, transformative message of Christ. Understanding this offense sheds light on the vital necessity of divine intervention—only through regeneration by the Holy Spirit can a heart be softened to embrace the unfathomable grace of God in Christ without offense.