Even the most biblically illiterate person you know can probably tell you that the Bible says not to judge. You may have had the words tossed at you when you were trying to point out sinful behavior, and perhaps you’ve been driven into an exasperated silence upon hearing this misapplication of the verse so many times. Matthew 7, however, is far from a primer on tolerance.
In this same passage, Jesus preaches that some of the very people who believe they are above judgment are hellbound. In addition to including the saying “Do not judge, so that you won’t be judged,” this passage also holds condemnation like “Depart from me, you lawbreakers!” (v. 23). Following the verse that is often taken out of context as a condemnation against any kind of judging whatsoever, Jesus clarifies that our judgment needs to start with a deep personal look at our own sinfulness. Then He tells us that once we have seen ourselves clearly, we are to turn our eyes to our brothers to judge (with righteous judgment; see John 7:24) their actions—and He tells us exactly the fruit we are to be looking for in both our lives and theirs.
How can we judge ourselves and others with righteous judgment rather than self-righteous judgment?
Check in tomorrow to get the link for this Sunday’s Bible Study lesson to use for your Zoom Sunday School Class.
Stay Thirsty for Righteousness My Friends…
Stay Thirsty for Righteousness My Friends... 