The passages in Matthew 18:6-9, Mark 9:42-48, and Luke 17:2 all discuss the seriousness of causing harm or leading others into sin. In each of these passages, it is emphasized that it would be better for one to suffer severe consequences rather than leading others astray or causing them to stumble in their faith. The imagery used in these verses includes the drastic actions of cutting off a hand or foot, or gouging out an eye if it causes one to sin. This extreme language is meant to convey the importance of avoiding actions that may lead others away from God.

While the overall message in all three passages is the same, there are slight differences in the details and context in which the message is conveyed. In Matthew 18:6-9, the focus is on causing harm to "little ones", emphasizing the vulnerability of those who are new in their faith. In Mark 9:42-48, the emphasis is on the consequences of causing others to sin, using the imagery of Gehenna, or hell. In Luke 17:2, the message is similar but is spoken more generally about causing others to stumble.

This passage is important because it highlights the responsibility Christians have to live in a way that is not a stumbling block to others. As followers of Christ, we should be mindful of our actions and words, ensuring that we are not leading others away from their faith. A helpful daily application from these passages is to strive to live a life that is pleasing to God and to be conscious of the impact our choices may have on others.

These references are not found in other parts of the gospels, as they are unique to the individual accounts of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.