18:7: Temptation is everywhere and it is bound to come to us. God's wrath is upon the man who execute the temptation on others, thus causing him to sin.
18:8 - 9: Jesus is only using symbolic term here. It simply means if we make a mistake, we are to face it and deal with it and not run or hide from it. Likewise, the same attitude applies if we sin. It may be a painful situation (cut off and throw away) but is better than to let it leads you to further condemnation (thrown into eternal fire). Dealing with the mistake causes only initial pain after which a wave of elation follows because we will realise the relief from the weight of the burden. Hiding will lead to a life of torment. For a long time; it never heals and also not leading a righteous life in the eyes of God.
Learning how to handle our mistakes is fundamental to good mental health. If we can learn to face our mistakes, we can open the door to spiritual and emotional growth. When we hide from our mistakes, we are digging ourselves deeper into destructive behaviours and emotions.
Nothing to Defend
If you are in the wrong, you DO NOT HAVE a defence.
If you are right, you DO NOT NEED a defence.
|
