Friday Night Message: To Judge or not to Judge?

Mar. 31, 2023

Good evening brethren, 

Is judgment something that we are to have and to grow in, or is it something that we are to avoid altogether and eliminate from our lives?  Or could it be both, depending upon the multiple meanings and nuances of this word “judgment”.  Let’s continue this series of messages which is named “To Judge, Or Not To Judge?”

As a reminder, let me state that this is not a simple subject.  For the purpose of this series, I would like to give you two broad categories or types of judgment – condemnation, and discernment: 

• Under the general heading of condemnation go such meanings as harsh criticism, sentencing, passing judgment, censure, and the like.  

• Under the general heading of discernment go such things as distinguishing right from wrong, having understanding or good sense, the ability to compare and decide.

Let’s continue to evaluate condemnation.  In this kind of judgment, the emphasis and focus is on the person (not an incident), on the inner heart and motives (not just the outward actions or behavior), and on their destiny or ultimate fate (not just present consequences).

So for three Friday Night we have asked: “Why is it wrong for us to judge others in this way?”  Why should it be avoided?  …

1. It’s not our job.

2. We would not do a good job of it.  Why?...

2-A. Judging according to the flesh

2-B. Judging before the time

2-C. Judging from afar

 Now let us add another reason to avoid this type of judgment.   “Why is it wrong for us to judge others in this way?”  Why should it be avoided?

3. As you judge, you will be judged.

Matt. 7:1-2 – Judge not, that you be not be judged.  For with what condemnation you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.

Sometimes, those who are quick to judge or condemn, are hypocritical, being guilty of something serious themselves, sometimes guilty of the very things that they are upset about with others.

Matt. 18 – Please read the entire account of the unforgiving servant … that is verses 23 through 35.

For the next two Friday Nights, we still have two more reasons why we should not condemn others.

Have a blessed Sabbath,

Fred