1. Matthew 5:29 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why does Jesus refer to the eye as a cause for sin?

Matthew 5:29 (ESV)

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.

Since adultery begins with looking lustfully at a woman, the eye is very naturally involved. 1 Typically a person sees someone, and then they begin to desire, plan, and imagine.