Judging

What was Jesus saying

Matthew 7:1 “1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.”

The biblical meaning of judging encompasses several key concepts:

Hypocrisy in Judgment: In Matthew 7:1-5, Jesus warns against judging others hypocritically, advising individuals to first address their own faults before criticizing others. 

Divine Evaluation: Judgment in the Bible refers to God's evaluation of human actions, thoughts, and intentions, highlighting the role of Christ as the ultimate judge. 

Righteous vs. Self-Righteous Judgment: The Bible teaches that believers should exercise discernment in judgment while avoiding self-righteous condemnation. 

Misunderstandings: The phrase "Judge not lest you be judged" is often misinterpreted, emphasizing the need for careful understanding of biblical teachings on judgment.  These passages collectively illustrate that judging in a biblical context involves a balance of discernment, humility, and awareness of one's own shortcomings.

What does the Bible mean when it says, “Do not judge”?

Jesus’ command not to judge others could be the most widely quoted of His sayings, even though it is almost invariably quoted in complete disregard of its context. Here is Jesus’ statement: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged” (Matthew 7:1). Many people use this verse in an attempt to silence their critics, interpreting Jesus’ meaning as “You don’t have the right to tell me I’m wrong.” Taken in isolation, Jesus’ command “Do not judge” does indeed seem to preclude all negative assessments. However, there is much more to the passage than those three words.

The Bible’s command that we not judge others does not mean we cannot show discernment. Immediately after Jesus says, “Do not judge,” He says, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs” (Matthew 7:6). A little later in the same sermon, He says, “Watch out for false prophets. . . . By their fruit you will recognize them” (verses 15–16). How are we to discern who are the “dogs” and “pigs” and “false prophets” unless we have the ability to make a judgment call on doctrines and deeds? Jesus is giving us permission to tell right from wrong. Also, the Bible’s command that we not judge others does not mean all actions are equally moral or that truth is relative. The Bible clearly teaches that truth is objective, eternal, and inseparable from God’s character. Anything that contradicts the truth is a lie—but, of course, to call something a “lie” is to pass judgment. To call adultery or murder a sin is likewise to pass judgment—but it’s also to agree with God. When Jesus said not to judge others, He did not mean that no one can identify sin for what it is, based on God’s definition of sin. And the Bible’s command that we not judge others does not mean there should be no mechanism for dealing with sin. The Bible has a whole book entitled Judges. The judges in the Old Testament were raised up by God Himself (Judges 2:18). The modern judicial system, including its judges, is a necessary part of society. In saying, “Do not judge,” Jesus was not saying, “Anything goes.” Elsewhere, Jesus gives a direct command to judge: “Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly” (John 7:24). Here we have a clue as to the right type of judgment versus the wrong type. Taking this verse and some others, we can put together a description of the sinful type of judgment: Superficial judgment is wrong. Passing judgment on someone based solely on appearances is sinful (John 7:24). It is foolish to jump to conclusions before investigating the facts (Proverbs 18:13). Simon the Pharisee passed judgment on a woman based on her appearance and reputation, but he could not see that the woman had been forgiven; Simon thus drew Jesus’ rebuke for his unrighteous judgment (Luke 7:36–50). Hypocritical judgment is wrong. Jesus’ command not to judge others in Matthew 7:1 is preceded by comparisons to hypocrites (Matthew 6:2, 5, 16) and followed by a warning against hypocrisy (Matthew 7:3–5). When we point out the sin of others while we ourselves commit the same sin, we condemn ourselves (Romans 2:1). Harsh, unforgiving judgment is wrong. We are “always to be gentle toward everyone” (Titus 3:2). It is the merciful who will be shown mercy (Matthew 5:7), and, as Jesus warned, “In the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Matthew 7:2). Self-righteous judgment is wrong. We are called to humility, and “God opposes the proud” (James 4:6). In Jesus’ parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, the Pharisee was confident in his own righteousness and from that proud position judged the publican; however, God sees the heart and refused to forgive the Pharisee’s sin (Luke 18:9–14). Untrue judgment is wrong. The Bible clearly forbids bearing false witness (Proverbs 19:5). “Slander no one” (Titus 3:2). Christians are often accused of “judging” or intolerance when they speak out against sin. But opposing sin is not wrong. Holding aloft the standard of righteousness naturally defines unrighteousness and draws the slings and arrows of those who choose sin over godliness. John the Baptist incurred the ire of Herodias when he spoke out against her adultery with Herod (Mark 6:18–19). She eventually silenced John, but she could not silence the truth (Isaiah 40:8). Believers are warned against judging others unfairly or unrighteous, but Jesus commends “right judgment” (John 7:24, ESV). We are to be discerning (Colossians 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:21). We are to preach the whole counsel of God, including the Bible’s teaching on sin (Acts 20:27; 2 Timothy 4:2). We are to gently confront erring brothers or sisters in Christ (Galatians 6:1). We are to practice church discipline (Matthew 18:15–17). We are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

Why are Christians so judgmental?

One of the most widespread arguments against Christians is that they are “judgmental” or “always imposing their views on others.” Often, this criticism comes in response to Christians who speak out against behaviors and lifestyles that God judges as “sin” and has declared to be an outrage to Him (see Proverbs 16:1). We live in a society where “everyone [does] what [is] right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25)—where people insist that there are no moral absolutes, that each man should decide for himself what is right or wrong, and that we should “tolerate” (which in their minds essentially means “celebrate”) sinful activities. Those who take seriously the biblical warnings against sin and dare speak out against evil are written off as religious fanatics, and all Christians are, ironically, judged as being “judgmental.” The Scripture that is used the most to support the idea that Christians should not judge is Matthew 7:1, where Jesus says to His disciples, “Judge not, that you be not judged.” It’s one verse that many unbelievers can quote. Another popular saying, taken from John 8:7, is “He that is without sin, let him cast the first stone.” But when we read these verses in their immediate contexts, it becomes obvious that Jesus is not warning against every kind of judging but against hypocritical, self-righteous judging (see Matthew 7:1–5; John 8:1–11). In other words, judgmental people must remember that they will be judged by the same standard they apply to others: “In the same way you judge others, you will be judged” (Matthew 7:2). There is no place for spiritual hypocrisy or pride. Christians can and must take a stand against sin, but, even then, our dealings with others should be marked by grace, mercy, and humility. However, hypocritical judging is the only kind of judging the Bible says that Christians should avoid. The Christian must “judge” or discern between good and evil (Hebrews 5:14)! We must make spiritual evaluations of the words and behavior of others, not to find fault, but to effectively guard our hearts against error and sin (1 Corinthians 2:14-15; Proverbs 4:23). In fact, immediately after Jesus warned His disciples against hypocritical judgment, He says, “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs” (Matthew 7:6). How is the Christian supposed to know who the “dogs” and the “pigs” are unless he or she exercises discernment? Furthermore, Jesus warns His disciples just a few verses later, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15-16). This admonition is given not only with regard to “false prophets” but also concerning anyone who comes in the name of Christ but who, by his actions, denies Christ (Titus 1:16; cf. Matthew 3:8). According to Jesus, this kind of judgment is considered “right judgment” (John 7:24) and is strongly encouraged. We are to be “as wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16), and wisdom demands that we be discerning (Proverbs 10:13). And when we have discerned rightly, we are to speak the truth, with love being the motivating factor (Ephesians 4:15). Love requires that we gently confront those in error with the truth about their sin with the hope of bringing them to repentance and faith (Galatians 6:1). “Whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death” (James 5:20). The true Christian speaks the truth—not merely what he believes to be the truth, but the truth as plainly revealed in God’s Word. The truth, especially the truth about good and evil, exists independently from what we feel or think (Isaiah 5:20-21). Those who reject or are offended by the truth simply prove the power of God’s Word to convict the heart of man; for “the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

Matthew Chapter 7, Verses 1 and 2, states, "For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you." This verse is often misunderstood and misapplied, leading to the belief that it prohibits all judgment. However, it is a direct call to humility and self-reflection. Jesus is urging us to avoid condemning others and instead to practice self-reflection and humility. By teaching that we’ll be judged by the same standard we use to judge others, he encourages compassion over condemnation.  The verse challenges us to reflect on our own actions before passing judgment on those around us. Are we living up to the same standards that we hold others to? Are we showing the same level of compassion and understanding that we expect from others? This verse reminds us of the importance of empathy and humility by encouraging us to refrain from passing judgment. It calls us to treat others with the same grace and forgiveness that we hope to receive.  In today's world, where social media's pervasive influence makes it easy to fall into the trap of judgment, these verses challenge us to reflect on our own actions and attitudes before criticizing others. This call for self-awareness and empathy is desperately needed in our divisive times. 

We Will Judge Angels.

1 Corinthians 6:3 “3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?”

What does it mean that we will judge angels (1 Corinthians 6:3)?

In his letter to the church in Corinth, the apostle Paul tells us that believers will not only judge the world but also judge angels: “Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world ... Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life” (1 Corinthians 6:2-3). Scripture teaches that the fallen angels will be judged by God (Isaiah 24:21-22; 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6; Revelation 20:10). But what does Paul mean when he says the saints will also judge angels? What we can surmise from this 1 Corinthians passage is that we, as God’s children, will be given a higher position than the angels. We’re not only created in God’s image but redeemed by Christ (Galatians 3:13; 1 Peter 2:9; Luke 1:68; Ephesians 1:7). Angels are not created in God’s image and are not redeemed by Christ (Hebrews 1:14; 2:16). Also, God sends His angels to serve His saints, i.e., those who are to inherit eternal life (Hebrews 1:14; see also Psalm 34:7; Psalm 91:11). Additionally, we know that the Greek word for “judge,” krino, also means “to rule or govern.” This strongly implies that we will have authority over the holy angels, for they have no sin for which to be “judged” in the sense of “condemned.” Most likely, the meaning of this passage is that believers in heaven will take part in the judgment of the fallen angels and exercise some authority over the holy angels. Christ has been exalted above all the angels (see Ephesians 1:20-23), and it seems reasonable that those who are in Him and made in His likeness (Romans 8:29; 1 Corinthians 15:49; Ephesians 4:24; 1 John 3:2) will share in His authority, including His authority over the angels (Matthew 19:28; 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 20:4).

The difference between judgment and discernment lies in their approach and intention:

Discernment refers to the ability to judge well and make thoughtful decisions. It involves a keen insight that allows individuals to differentiate between what is true, valuable, or significant, and what is not. In essence, discernment is a power to see beyond the obvious and understand deeper meanings or implications. 

Judgment often involves forming opinions or conclusions based on limited information, which can lead to criticism or censure. 

Discernment, on the other hand, is a more thoughtful process that involves careful consideration of all aspects of a situation or person before reaching a conclusion, aiming for understanding and insight. 

While judgment can be seen as a more rigid and sometimes negative assessment, discernment is characterized by openness and a willingness to see different viewpoints. 

Discernment helps in distinguishing truth from error without being judgmental, promoting a more compassionate understanding.  In summary, discernment is a nuanced and reflective process, whereas judgment can be more immediate and critical.

Judgment vs. Discernment

Good or Bad.  Right or Wrong.  Fun or Boring.  Easy or Difficult.  Beautiful or Ugly.  Every day, we’re surrounded by judgments, whether on the television or in our own minds.  Our culture is strongly attached to categorizing and comparing.

Yet we’re also told that it’s not politically or even spiritually correct to judge.  Accept difference, see similarity, no one is better or worse than anyone else.  Some kid’s baseball games no longer keep score for fear of being the “losers.”  We’re no longer stiff; we’re just “flexibility-challenged”.

Judgment creates polarization:

division into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs: "the polarization of society between rich and poor"

There’s good reason why society has shifted away from judgment.  It’s all too easy to fall into condemnation of things or people that are different than you, or to bad-mouth things that we dislike or disagree with.  Judgment, labeling, stereotyping, and segregating can lead to polarization of societies, dividing and angering large and small communities.

The need to distinguish things

At the same time, we can easily fall into the trap of swinging to the opposite extreme.  Without some way to determine what’s good and not so good, standards disintegrate.  The truth is, some people do certain things better than others.  Not everyone can be a great artist, although we can all enjoy creating our own art. Some swimmers are faster than others, but even if we don’t win the Olympics we can still enjoy a dip in the pool.  Hurting another person intentionally is wrong, period (taking circumstances into consideration).  We can’t avoid altogether distinguishing things from each other.

If we feel pressured to accept everyone as they are regardless of their behavior, children can go undisciplined, hurtful behavior ignored, and vandalism tolerated.  Workers can become sloppy and unmotivated without some comparison of what’s good work and what’s just mediocre.  We’re already seeing signs of the kind of deterioration that comes from absence of making distinctions for fear of offending or leaving anyone out.

What’s the difference?

Discernment may seem like judgment, but the difference between these two approaches to life is significant.  The dictionary definitions of the two terms shed some light.

Judgment:  “an opinion or estimate, criticism or censure, power of comparing or deciding”.  Judgment implies a power differential – I perceive myself to have power over you when I judge you (for example, “you’re a loser!”).  Judgment feeds the ego’s deception of being better (or worse) than someone or something else.  Judgment assumes that the person judging has the power and right to determine what is good or bad in general, not just from their point of view.  It usually comes from a reactive place inside of us, like a knee-jerk when the doctor strikes the mallet on that joint – it’s unconscious.  Judgment also has a sense of finality, like a sentence being passed.  We know what it’s like to feel judged by someone else:  it sticks to you like duct tape, and at times you find yourself feeling the pain of that condemnation days or even years later.

Discernment, however, is a more personal and conscious approach.  It’s the cognitive ability of a person to distinguish what is appropriate or inappropriate.  With discernment we make good choices for ourselves, and for the good of others.  Webster’s dictionary says that to discern is to “separate (a thing) mentally from another or others; recognize as separate or different” and “to perceive or recognize; make out clearly”.  Discernment is described as “keen perception; insight;

Matthew 7:1–5 “1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.”

Luke 6:36–38 “36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. 37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

Law: The biblical definition of the law encompasses a set of commandments and regulations that serve as God’s perfect standard of obedience and holiness. It symbolizes the covenant between God and His people, providing a framework for moral conduct and spiritual integrity. Additionally, the law reflects God's character and expectations for His people, acting as a guide for living a life that is pleasing to Him. 

Rom 2:1–3Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemns thyself; for thou that judges does' the same things. But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?

John 7:24 “24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.”

1 Corinthians 4:5 “5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.”

Romans 14:10–13 “10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. 12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. 13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.”

1 Samuel 16:7 “7 But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.”

Matthew 12:36–37 “36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.”

Proverbs 31:9 “9 Open thy mouth, judge righteously, And plead the cause of the poor and needy.”

Colossians 2:16–17 “16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.”

1 Corinthians 5:12–13 “12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.”

James 4:11–12 “11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?”

Understanding Judgment and Discernment: Navigating the Path to Clarity

In our decision-making processes and interactions, discernment and judgment often walk a fine line. This fine line leads people to frequently interpret the use of discernment as judgment, increasing the chances for misunderstandings, defensiveness, and conflict.  The nuance between the two can be difficult to identify, yet there are certain indicators that can help us identify the difference.

Understanding the disparities between them and recognizing their application is crucial. Let’s explore the differences and how to identify which path we’re treading:

Defining Judgment and Discernment

Judgment:

Involves forming opinions or conclusions swiftly, often influenced by personal biases, preconceived notions, or fixed perspectives.  Judgments are reactionary, usually coming from fear, anxiety, or shame that often has a narrative attached to it that stems from whether something is good or bad, right or wrong, and a should or shouldn’t be Judged. There is a finality, condemnation, and criticism about it that implies a power differential and a hierarchy that doesn’t factor in other points-of-view or differing contexts.

Discernment:

Involves a deeper insight or understanding gained through careful observation, reflection, and consideration of various factors.  Discernment utilizes mindful awareness to describe what is being spoken about in a factual and radically accepting manner.  It’s about seeing things as they are, right in front of us, whether we like it or not, without a narrative or bias.  It’s responsive rather than reactionary.  Discernment includes a curiosity, compassion, and insight that moves beyond ego, opinions, rigid standards, and societal rules.  It acknowledges there are many points of view and differing contexts.

Identifying Judgment

Rash Conclusions:

Quick and rigid opinions formed without considering all available information or perspectives.  These quick opinions close the door to other perspectives and truths, and whatever we are judging is immediately determined to be good or bad, superior or inferior in some way.  When we judge, we make broad and general conclusions that lack boundaries.  We make general evaluations rather than helpful explorations, suggestions, or open conversations.  We overly praise or condemn.

Emotional Bias:

Opinions influenced primarily by emotions, stereotypes, or personal beliefs rather than objective evaluation.  There is a self-righteousness that creates division between who or what is being judged.  It frequently comes from feelings of fear of rejection and abandonment, anxiety, and shame.  Judgment closes your mind and heart, shutting down curiosity and open discussion.

Judgments can be good or bad, with bad judgments leaving us feeling shame, embarrassment, anxiety, insecurity, jealousy, envy, or feeling less than.  You often feel tense, angry, tired, heavy, frustrated, and demoralized. When judgments are good, we feel momentarily righteous and superior, yet since it comes from a subjective place and relies on external positive judgment, we soon find ourselves searching for more validation from others to continue to feel this satisfaction.

Recognizing Discernment

Comprehensive Assessment:

Taking time to gather information, evaluate different viewpoints, and consider various factors before drawing conclusions.  Discernment is a conscious approach, utilizing mindful perception to see things clearly, without rigid standards or rules.  Discernment helps us perceive what is working effectively and what is not to achieve the desired result, while recognizing desired results may vary.  It separates one thing from another to help see something clearly and with curiosity.  When we are utilizing discernment, we are usually calm, open, and grounded.  We feel light, inspired, open, and energetic at the possibilities in front of you.  Even when the conversation is uncomfortable, there is pleasure in growth potential.

Balanced Perspective:

Being open to diverse opinions, weighing evidence objectively, and adapting opinions based on new information.  Discernment has healthy boundaries.  It recognizes there are other perceptions and that others are free to choose the way they think and live without it meaning something is fundamentally right or wrong about a them or the situation.  It recognizes that just because one thing exists, that other experiences, realities, and perceptions are equally valid and true, without negating the truth of one person’s experience over another.  With discernment, we accept that we cannot claim to know the absolute truth, as we recognize there are many.

Cultivating Discernment

Practice Mindfulness:

Engage in self-reflection and mindfulness exercises to recognize and manage biases or emotional reactions.  Notice when your thoughts or statements infer an absolute quality to what you are thinking about, and practice letting those thoughts go without focusing or ruminating.  Practice observing and describing the objects or situations around you, taking out the words that imply something is good or bad to focus on using language that is more factual and objective.  Practice coming from a place of curiosity, asking questions, and extending compassion and goodwill toward things that differ from your own thoughts and experiences.  Let go of impulsive and quick reactions, take a pause, and paraphrase what you are observing or what someone is telling you.

Seek Diverse Perspectives:

Actively seek diverse viewpoints, challenging your assumptions, and embracing a broader understanding.  Be open to other ideas and experiences.  Listen to the opinions of others with the intent to listen and not respond.  Practice having conversations without stating your opinion.  Use active listening skills and paraphrasing what you hear.  Ask questions more often than making statements, and approach topics with curiosity to understand the diversity of experiences and opinions.

Distinguishing between judgment and discernment lies in the depth of observation, introspection, and openness to different viewpoints. While discernment is frequently confused as judgment, the differences are significant.  Being able to recognize the difference can help you reduce conflict, as you can know when you are judging, and you won’t misinterpret someone’s statement as judgmental. 

Jesus' statement "Judge not, that you be not judged" is often misunderstood. It is not a blanket prohibition on all forms of judgment but rather a call to avoid the wrong kind of judgment. Jesus warns against self-righteous, hypocritical, and condemning judgments that exalt the critic and crush the sinner. The Greek word for "judge" can refer to a wide range of actions, from simple evaluation to final condemnation. In the context of Jesus' command not to judge, he has in mind a kind of condemning posture that puts self in the place of God. Paul echoes this warning in Romans 2:1, where he says, "For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things." The problem isn't discernment; it's hypocrisy. The measure you use will be measured to you, and the standards we use to judge others will be applied to us. 

Recognizing and using discernment can improve your relationships with others.  It can even your relationship with yourself, since your inner critic is based on your use of judgment rather than discernment.  By cultivating mindfulness, seeking diverse perspectives, and embracing open-mindedness and curiosity, we can navigate towards a path of discernment, fostering a more inclusive and thoughtful approach in our decisions and interactions.

Judge Not and Realize the Difference.