"Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. Matthew 7:1-2
The first verse in Matthew chapter seven is, without doubt, one of the most frequently misunderstood and abused verses in the entire Bible. Think of how often those in sin use this verse as a sort of “get out of jail free” card. If a person in sin is challenged in any way, no matter how biblically loving the challenge is being made, the defensive knee-jerk reaction is, “Judge not!”
Of course it is true that sometimes false, unbiblical judgements are made that should not be made. But to believe that no one is ever to make judgments of any kind is to ignore common sense and the clear teaching of the Bible on the matter.
We all make numerous, everyday, benign judgements. Which item on a restaurant menu to order is making a judgment? Am I guilty of breaking Jesus’ command to “judge not” because I order a salad instead of soup? Obviously this kind of everyday judgement is not wrong. We must make judgements every time a telemarketer calls, usually opting to decline their once-in-a-lifetime offers. This kind of judgement is an exercise in common sense.
Then there is the importance of interpreting Bible verses in light of (a) the immediate context, and (b) the larger context.
Immediate Context. Even a casual reading of the following verses (v.3-20), reveals from Jesus’ lips in the same discourse, the importance of making spiritual judgements:
In (v.3-5) Jesus warns against judging others when we are guilty ourselves. But note, it is not a blanket prohibition, as though one must be sinless before challenging someone else. In fact, Jesus bids us to deal with our own issues, and then help an erring brother or sister with theirs.
In (v.6) Jesus tells us about dealing with “dogs” and “swine.” Clearly the Lord expects us to discern (which requires judgment) what kind of person we are dealing with.
In (v.13-14) Jesus warns us to discern (which requires judgment) the difference between different pathways of living.
In (v.15-20) Jesus tells us to discern (which requires judgment) true from false prophets, which likewise requires us to judge based on fruit.
Clearly those who boldly quote Jesus’ words, “Judge not,” thinking that makes them immune from ever being challenged regarding sin (or even foolishness), misunderstand Jesus’ admonition to “Judge not!”
Before closing, let us be reminded that before confronting another, we must first scrutinize ourselves. And let us judge our hearts regarding the manner in which we challenge a brother or sister. We must not go condescendingly condemning others. We must go in love.
Next time, the Greater Context…