In this passage, Jesus uses strong imagery to convey the importance of avoiding sin at all costs. The instruction to remove an eye if it causes one to stumble is not meant to be taken literally but serves as a hyperbolic expression to illustrate the drastic measures one should take to avoid sin. The eye symbolizes the things we see and desire, which can lead us away from righteousness. By suggesting such extreme action, Jesus emphasizes the critical nature of spiritual vigilance and the need to eliminate anything that might lead us to sin.
The underlying message is about prioritizing one's spiritual journey and eternal life over any temporary or earthly attachments. Jesus is teaching that the consequences of sin are severe and that it is better to sacrifice something valuable now than to face eternal separation from God. This teaching encourages believers to examine their lives closely, identify potential stumbling blocks, and take decisive action to remove them, thereby aligning their lives more closely with God's will.
