It is important to remember that Jesus is speaking in a categorical form, using words for the sake of emphasis and memory (as he does also in Luke 14:26). In this case he wants to make it clear that kingdom citizens should take decisive measures to control their sinful desires and not give them free reign (see Colossians 3:5–6). 1 Since evil arises in the heart (see Matthew 15:19), amputation cannot cure it. 2 Nevertheless, believers must deal drastically with sin. 3 It is better to suffer and lose an important appendage than what it is to lose everything at final judgment. 4 Perseverance in sin and unbelief leads to hell. 5
29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell.