How can Matthew 18:9 guide us in avoiding spiritual stumbling blocks today? The seriousness of stumbling “ ‘And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.’ ” (Matthew 18:9) Why Jesus speaks so starkly • Sin is never harmless; it leads to “the fire of hell.” • The imagery of removing an eye stresses decisive action, not self-harm. He calls us to treat spiritual danger as urgently as a surgeon treats a gangrenous limb. • The verse affirms eternal realities—heaven and hell—and our responsibility to choose eternal life over temporary comforts. Recognizing today’s “eyes” that cause us to sin Ask, What repeatedly draws my attention away from Christ? Common culprits: • Digital temptations—websites, social media, streaming content (Psalm 101:3). • Immoral relationships—flirtations, emotional affairs, unequal yokes (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Material lures—covetous advertising, get-rich-quick schemes (1 Timothy 6:9-10). • Pride-feeders—platforms or conversations that inflate ego (Proverbs 16:18). Practical ways to “gouge out” modern stumbling blocks • Install robust filters or delete apps that foster lust, envy, or anger. • Schedule phone-free hours to reclaim time for Scripture and prayer (Mark 1:35). • End relationships or habits that repeatedly drag you into compromise—politely, firmly, finally (2 Timothy 2:22). • Redirect money spent on stumbling habits to generous giving (Matthew 6:21). Guarding heart and mind after removal • Fill the vacancy with truth: daily Bible intake (Psalm 119:11) and Christ-centered music or podcasts. • Memorize Philippians 4:8 to filter thoughts: true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable. • Cultivate accountability—confess sins to a trusted believer (James 5:16); walk together in the light (1 John 1:7). Fixing our gaze on eternity • Remember the race’s prize: “an imperishable crown” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). • Set hope “on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:13). • Let every choice answer the question, Will this help me “enter life” or hinder me? Summary: living Matthew 18:9 today Take sin seriously, identify what feeds it, remove that influence without hesitation, and replace it with habits that point you toward Christ. Radical obedience now safeguards eternal joy later. |
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