The Sermon on the Mount #15 - Hypocritical Judging

The Sermon on the Mount #15:

Hypocritical Judging

Text: Matt. 7:1-6

Thesis: To note the dangers of hypocritical judging and to suggest how to avoid it.

Introduction:

(1)    “This is one of the most often misunderstood and misquoted passages in all the Bible” (Holman New Testament Commentary).

(2)    Let us look at this passage together and understand it in its context.

Discussion:

I.                   First, what kind of judgment is condemned?

A.    ‘Judge’ (Gr. krino) means “to pass judgment upon (and thereby seek to influence) the lives and actions of other people” (BDAG).

B.     Obviously, this kind of judging is a fact of life and cannot be completely avoided, nor should it.

1.      For example, one could not practice the Great Commission without making a judgment call (cf. Matt. 28:19-20).

2.      Further, one could never speak out against sin without making a judgment call (in reality, God is the one who has already made the judgment).

3.      Furthermore, Jesus said: “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment” (John 7:24, NASB).

C.     Hence, it is unrighteous or hypocritical judgment that is condemned.

1.      Hypocritical judgment involves having unfair standards.

2.      Hypocritical judgment involves a “do as I say and not as I do” philosophy.

3.      Hypocritical judgment involves the inability to see your own faults and thereby an inability to be understanding and sympathetic with others.

II.                Second, how do we judge correctly?

A.    First and foremost, we should have our “house in order” before we lecture others about their problems.

B.     Second, we should not bind upon others what the Lord has not bound.

C.     Third, we should always discuss things in a loving, Christ-like manner.

D.    Fourth, we should be patient and understanding as people are making efforts.

Conclusion:

(1)   Ultimately, we will be judged by the words of Jesus (John 12:48).

(2)   How do you measure up?