Hey there, fur-iends! 🐾 Matthew 7:1 stands as one of the most essential yet frequently misappropriated statements within the Holy Scriptures. We often encounter individuals who seem to know only a few verses from the Bible: “Judge not” (Matt. 7:1), “God is love” (1 John 4:16), and “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone…” (John 8:7). These individuals—whether they claim to be Christians or not—show little genuine interest in understanding the Scriptures in their original context. They delight in crafting biblical slogans when such phrases suit their personal agendas.
However, just because a verse is misused does not mean we should dismiss it. In fact, Matthew 7:1 serves as a correction that many Christians ought to heed. If we can first rectify erroneous claims, we shall be prepared to allow Matthew 7:1 to shape us in accordance with Christ’s intentions.
So, what does this verse not intend? Firstly, “judge not” does not imply that we should cease the application of law. God has appointed officials within the state (Rom. 13:1-2) and within the church (Matt. 18:15-17; 1 Cor. 5:9-13) to execute judgment when members of each institution fail to act rightly. We do not judge in the sense of taking the law into our own paws, for we believe that God will administer His justice through the appropriate authorities (Rom. 12:17-21).
Secondly, “judge not” does not mean we should refrain from using our intellect. In other passages, we are warned not to believe every spirit (1 John 4:1). We must be wise individuals, judging with righteous discernment (John 7:24). It is inconceivable that one could read the Bible and conclude that piety necessitates the unconditional acceptance of everything at all times and agreement with all individuals. The very Jesus who preached against judgment also rebuked the church in Thyatira for permitting false teachers and immorality (Rev. 2:20).
Thirdly, “judge not” does not signify that we should abandon all moral evaluation. The Sermon on the Mount does not prohibit theological and ethical assessment. Jesus does not forbid stern criticism when warranted. Consider this: the Sermon on the Mount is filled with moral judgments. Jesus refers to those present as hypocrites (Matt. 7:5). He instructs the people to be wary of false prophets (v. 15). Jesus wants us to understand (and discern) that some individuals are akin to dogs and swine (v. 6), mere sentences following the command “judge not.” It is as if Jesus is saying, “I do not wish for you to be overly critical, yet I also do not desire for you to be foolish.”
While it is crucial to avoid the misuse of Matthew 7:1, we must exercise caution that our vigilance does not render Jesus’ command overly lenient. The directive to refrain from judgment serves as a necessary admonition for us all, including those of faith who may easily be tempted to belittle those who appear less religious.
So, what precisely does this verse mean? Firstly, “judge not” signifies that we ought to measure others as we wish to be measured ourselves. No one desires to be subjected to a biased scale or a crooked measuring stick that is either too short or too long. We all wish to be evaluated fairly and consistently. This is the point Jesus conveys in verse 2: “For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.” Do not presume the worst of others based on their skin color, manner of dress, place of residence, or the identity of their parents. Refrain from hastily judging before hearing from all parties involved.
In an era marked by tribal divisions and judgment via the internet, one of the most impactful actions we can undertake as Christians is to contemplate the measure we desire for ourselves and then apply that same measure to others. How would I wish others to assess me? I desire for individuals to view me from various perspectives and not to hastily believe the worst about me. I wish for others to consider the facts, rather than gossip or speculation. I long for individuals to afford me the opportunity to speak and to remain open to changing their minds. I wish for others to speak of me and to me with respect. Is this not the manner in which you wish to be measured by others? Is this not the standard you and I employ for others?
Secondly, “judge not” implies that we must first examine ourselves. Jesus does not prohibit us from correcting or speaking the truth. Rather, He desires us to first rectify our own hearts and to speak the truth to ourselves (vv. 3-5). Moral and theological critique may be justified, provided it is accompanied by serious self-examination. We tend to exaggerate the faults of others while minimizing our own shortcomings. As John Calvin aptly noted, “There is hardly anyone who is not stirred by the desire to uncover the faults of others.” To belittle others is a cheap means of achieving moral superiority. We may perceive the truth with clarity, yet what value does our judgment of others hold if we do not first apply it to our own lives?
Thirdly, “judge not” reminds us to keep in mind who we truly are. Jesus wishes for us to remember that He is the Judge, and we are the judged. Furthermore, when speaking of Christians within the church, we are family. Note the explicit language of “brother” in verse 3. Jesus is realistic about the family of God. Conflicts are inevitable. There will certainly be splinters that need to be removed, as well as beams. Essentially, Jesus is conveying, “You will be tempted to act harshly and impatiently. However, allow Me to show you a better way. Can you love as I have loved?”
Render judgments based on the Word of God, yet never indulge in a self-righteous attitude, hypocrisy, hypercriticism, prejudice, or judgment without compassion. Such behavior has never been the way of Christ, and it ought not to be the way of Christians either.
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엘리야 The Wretched