Matthew 18:8-9

[8] Wherefore if hand or foot offend thee, them off, and cast them from better to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. [9] And if eye offend it out, and cast it from better to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.

What is the context of Matthew 18:8-9?

What does Matthew 18:8-9 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

Jesus next warned His disciples about the possibility of their doing what the world does, namely, making it difficult for another disciple to fulfill his or her mission for Jesus. In the context, one"s competitive pride of position might cause another disciple to stumble ( Matthew 18:1). The illustrations Jesus used recall Matthew 5:29-30, where He also urged His disciples to discipline their thoughts and motives.

The point of this section was the seriousness of rejecting or opposing Jesus" disciples in their work of carrying out His will. It is as serious as child abuse.