Matthew 18:8-9

Jesus next warned His disciples about the possibility of their doing what the world does, namely, making it difficult for another disciple to fulfill his or her mission for Jesus. In the context, one’s competitive pride of position might cause another disciple to stumble (Matthew 18:1). The illustrations Jesus used recall Matthew 5:29-30, where He also urged His disciples to discipline their thoughts and motives.

The point of this section was the seriousness of rejecting or opposing Jesus’ disciples in their work of carrying out His will. It is as serious as child abuse.