What is the context?
Jesus follows the warning about demanding signs with the picture of a lamp placed where people entering can see it. The light is meant to be visible.
Then He describes the eye as the body’s lamp. A good eye brings light; a bad one leaves the body in darkness. He warns the hearer to examine whether what seems to be inward light is actually darkness.
The Greek word describing the good eye is ἁπλοῦς, haplous (hah-PLOOS). Thayer describes an eye that is sound and fulfills its purpose, while noting discussion of the word’s moral sense. Jesus uses the picture to address the hearer’s inward condition, rather than to diagnose physical eyesight. (Thayer, Greek 573)
The passage ends with the whole person illuminated. In the surrounding conversation, the warning asks people who have seen Jesus’ work to consider how they are receiving its light.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christian readings commonly understand the lamp and eye as pictures of receiving God’s truth and the need for an undivided response. Wesley explains the passage in terms of directing one’s aim toward pleasing God and allowing His light to reach the whole life. (Wesley on Luke 11:33–36; Luke 11:33–36)
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Paul connects God’s original command for light with His act of shining into human hearts through the knowledge of His glory in Jesus Christ. The larger Scriptural theme is God overcoming darkness so people can know Him through His Son. (2 Corinthians 4:4–6)
Ephesians then describes the changed life of people who are light in the Lord: goodness, righteousness and truth become its fruit, and they are to test what pleases Him. The light God gives is meant to reach the way His people live. (Ephesians 5:8–14)
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.