[the OlLine Rebel]

How is the first phrase expanded on by the “cut it off” admonition? Or just how is it oversimplified?

[af_vet_1981]

How is the first phrase expanded on by the “cut it off” admonition? Or just how is it oversimplified?

In that passage of his letter to the Corinthians the Apostle is not speaking of lust, which is disordered and oft leads to porneia, a deadly sin. Instead he referred to a lack of the virtue of temperance/self-control (see Second Peter).
Marriage is a holy gift to those not called to celibacy and not a solution to lust. He was not addressing “men” per se, but rather “unmarried” and “widows,” so both genders, giving them permission to marry if they lack enough self-control to remain celibate like him, according to their calling in the Lord.

[af_vet_1981]

How is the first phrase expanded on by the “cut it off” admonition?

Jesus was speaking of “offenses” ie., scandalous sins so that if the hand or eye causes one to commit those “offenses” it would be better for that one to remove the causes than perish in hell. The preceding verses give the context as scandalizing children (little ones) who believe. However, if one reads his last recorded words about the “pornoi” (whoremonger/sexually immoral/fornicator), it is clear they do not obey his commandments, will not have a right to the tree of life, and not enter into his kingdom; thus losing limbs is preferable to hell.

Yet the answer is not mutilation, but rather repentance and self control out of a pure heart.