Jesus plainly tells us in Matthew 7:1 that we are not to judge others. Ah, if only it were that easy! The fact of the matter is, the New Testament gives us many examples of things we are to make judgments about. At first glance, this can sound like a massive contradiction. Don’t judge! Wait; DO judge, and here is your list! As with any apparent Bible contradiction, all we need to do is understand the two apparently differing views in their appropriate context and we will end up with a harmonious and powerful lesson. The reason our Christian responsibility towards judgment comes across this way is to remind us of the importance of how we do things. Standing as a representative of Jesus means working to respond to all things the way Jesus did.
On this episode, we explore Jesus’ instructions in Matthew 7:1-2: “Do not judge so that you will not be judged.” While this statement seems straightforward, the New Testament provides instances where judgment is necessary, creating an apparent contradiction. However, this paradox is resolved when judgment is understood within its proper context, as actions guided by humility, self-awareness and Christlike love.
Warnings Against Judgment
Jesus cautions against judgment with wrong motives, such as jealousy, self-righteousness or revenge. The “speck and log” analogy (Matthew 7:3-5) highlights the need for self-examination before addressing others’ flaws. Without addressing personal faults, one’s judgment becomes hypocritical and destructive.
Proper Judgment as a Responsibility
Righteous judgment is required in certain circumstances:
Disputes within the Christian community: 1 Corinthians 6 advises resolving conflicts among Christians rather than relying on secular courts.
Identifying false prophets: Matthew 7:15-20 calls for discerning false teachers through their actions and “fruits,” ensuring biblical integrity.
Addressing moral issues: 1 Corinthians 5 stresses confronting immoral behavior within the church with humility and firmness.
Selecting church leaders: 1 Timothy 3 outlines qualifications for overseers, emphasizing Christlike character. Acts 14 describes congregations independently electing their leaders.
Defending the gospel: Christians are tasked with guarding the gospel’s purity (Galatians 1:6-8) and refuting distorted teachings.
Guidelines for Righteous Judgment
To judge righteously, Christians must align their actions with scriptural principles and examine their motivations. They must avoid presuming others’ motives and practice empathy to soften judgment. The ultimate goal is to glorify God through humility and love.
Jesus exemplified righteous judgment and humility, choosing not to retaliate against his persecutors. His teachings emphasize focusing on personal growth, achieving “sanctified eyesight” by fixing one’s eyes on Christ (Hebrews 12:1-2). This clear, single-minded focus enables Christians to judge with compassion and wisdom.
Romans 14 reminds believers to respect differences in faith practices, refraining from judging others in matters of conscience and personal convictions.
Practical Applications
Judgment should never be arbitrary or lead with ego. Instead, Christians are to approach situations with humility, scriptural insight and a genuine desire to uplift others. By prioritizing empathy and understanding, they can avoid toxic, superficial judgments.
While Christians are called to judge in specific circumstances, they must approach judgment with humility and godliness, ensuring their actions mirror Christ. The focus remains on fostering love, good deeds and mutual encouragement within the faith community. Ultimately, righteous judgment glorifies God and strengthens Christlike character!