What does Matthew 18:8 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 18:8 is a scripture that, when taken literally, suggests a radical approach to dealing with sin: if a part of the body causes one to sin, it is better to remove or 'cut off' that part than to be thrown into everlasting fire with a complete body.

The underlying message is not about self-mutilation but an expression of the seriousness with which one should avoid sin.

The "hand" or "foot" represent actions and paths in life that may lead to sin.

The recommendation to "cut them off" symbolizes the need to decisively and ruthlessly remove temptations or sinful behaviors.

Historical Context

The verse is part of a larger discourse by Jesus with his disciples, where he speaks about sin, temptation, and the fate that awaits those who do not repent.

The historical context places it in a time when Jesus was teaching about the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven and how to live as part of this spiritual kingdom.

This tactile metaphor would have resonated with Jesus' audience in a predominantly agrarian society, where metaphors involving the body were commonly understood.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives approach this verse in varied ways:

• Protestant theologians often view this metaphorically, emphasizing the need for Christians to take drastic measures in avoiding sin.
• Catholic theology also sees this figuratively but might integrate it into discussions of penance and mortal sin, suggesting active work to avoid near occasions of sin.
• Some radical sects throughout history have taken this verse literally, leading to extreme forms of asceticism.

The general consensus is that the verse serves to underscore the severity of sin and the extreme measures needed to remain righteous.

Practical Applications

People can apply the teachings of Matthew 18:8 by assessing aspects of their lives that lead them to sin and taking decisive action to change.

This could include ending toxic relationships, quitting jobs that compromise one’s values, or avoiding places or activities that tempt one to behave unethically or immorally.

Cross-References

• Mark 9:43: "And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:"
• Mark 9:45: "And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:"
• Romans 6:12-13: "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text for this verse are "σκανδαλίζει" (skandalizei), which means "causes to sin" or "offends," and "ἔκκοψον" (ekkopsōn), which means "cut off." These words emphasize the action that needs to be taken against causes of sin, literally "stumbling blocks."

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient and contemporary cultures, the idea of removing a part of the body as a sacrifice or in penance can be found, though typically not as extreme as amputation.

In Hinduism, for instance, acts of penance may include fasting or other forms of body mortification, though it does not endorse self-harm.

In certain tribal traditions, tattoos or physical alterations may symbolize repentance or change.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, self-mutilation is a recognized psychological disorder known as body integrity dysphoria and is not considered a healthy or recommended practice. As such, modern readers can understand that the verse is symbolic and not an endorsement of literal self-mutilation.

commentaries

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Matthew's commentary on this verse suggests that Jesus used hyperbole to convey the seriousness of sin and the extent to which one should go to avoid it.

John Calvin interpreted this as the denouncement of anything that may lead us to offend God.

Adam Clarke’s commentary emphasizes that these are figurative expressions to portray the necessity of parting with whatever is most dear to us, rather than falling into sin.

These expert views harmonize on the interpretation that the verse is metaphorical, not literal, and speaks to the ruthlessness one should have against anything that causes sin.