~
The “Judge Not” Myth, 2 ~
Introduction ~ This
“judge not” concept is probably the most misused text in all of Scripture. “Judge not, and you will not be judged”
(Matthew 7:1a & Luke 6:37) is ripped out of context and used as a false
universal principle! The reality is just
the opposite: spiritual judgment is one of the key aspects of Christian
maturity. Jesus requires His people to
judge!
Comment ~ One
cannot read very much of Scripture without realizing it is about right and
wrong and judging between that which pleases God and that which is sinful.
Interesting
Scripture ~ “It
isn’t our job to judge outsiders. But
it certainly is our job to judge and deal
strongly with those who are members of the church and who are sinning in
these ways. God alone is the Judge of
those on the outside. But you yourselves
must deal with this man and put him out of your church” (1 Corinthians 5:12-13, TLB).
The
Important Distinctions
~ There are two very important
distinctions when it comes to Christian judgement.
1.
Those who are Christians versus non-believers.
In the above passage it is clearly
stated, “It isn’t our job to judge
outsiders [non-believers].” However,
as a member of the body of Christ, “It
certainly is our job to judge and deal strongly with those who are members of
the church and who are sinning.”
2.
Motive
versus actions.
Only God knows the true motives of an
individual’s actions. “The Lord does not
see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel
16:7b). However, God expects His people
to judge actions – what is right, and what is wrong. “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age [mature in
their faith], that is, those who by
reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil”
(Hebrews 5:14).
The
Important Principles
~ First, “God alone is the Judge of those on the outside.” Second, an important mark of Christian maturity
is the ability to discern what is right from what is wrong according to God’s
standards and to react appropriately.
Additional
Comments ~ There are many passages of Scripture which
assume human judgement is necessary. When
it comes to morality and right versus wrong God has set the standard in His
Word. As Christians when we talk about
God’s standards we are acting as His messengers. Also note that throughout the four Gospels we
repeatedly find Jesus Christ—as fully human—judging others yet we know that He
never sinned!
reference ~ You
may wish to look at a previous ALN post entitled “The Myth
of Judge Not” (published on February 8, 2011) which was subtitled: If
You Are NOT Judging—You Are Not Mature!
~
Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT
LIFE NOW
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