Do not Judge!

It is easy to twist scripture (eg Judas hangs himself…go and do likewise)

Matt 7:1-2
John 7:24
Ephesians 5:11

We are supposed to use our ability to make moral judgements and to be morally discerning. However, we also need to understand that when Christians speak truth and declare Scripture , then the enemy may use people to say “Don’t judge me!” This can be defensive reaction to having wrong pointed out.

James 4:11 This is against having a critical judgemental attitude.
Romans 14:10 We all must appear before the Judgement seat. This whole chapter 14 is about building others up instead of tearing them down.

Judge others in the way we would like to be judged by others.

How do we avoid an attitude of judgementalism? Jesus uses hyperbole to make a point. Our reaction to someone else’s speck in their eye may be like having a big log in our own eye.

Legalism is like a plank and swinging it around causes damage. How did Jesus reach us?. (We need to seek Justice and love mercy)

Eph 2:8 faith is a gift (it is not of us and our works)

We do need to discern and stand up against sin and stand for Justice and Fairness. We have a right to speak but we need to speak graciously and with mercy. We need to treat people that we disagree with, with dignity and respect.

John 3:16 Jesus did not come to condemn (Judge) the world but to save it.

Galatians 6:1-5. With gentleness, watchfulness and willingness restore people gently (we need to be careful with our motives)

The last verse, Matt 7:6 about pigs and dogs, seems to take off sideways… When we share the gospel, we need discernment and prompting of the Holy Spirit. Back off when people are not ready to hear. Fathers do not provoke your children…

FINALLY. As forgiven people, let us chose to treat others with the fruit of the Spirit.