1,244 words, 7 minutes read time.

When was the last time you felt judged by someone? How did it make you feel? Now, imagine someone feeling that same way because of your actions or words. It’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? In our journey as Christians, being judgmental can significantly hinder our testimony and the role we play in fulfilling the Great Commission. Let’s explore why this is and how we can align our actions more closely with Christ’s teachings.

The Bible tells us in Matthew 7:2, “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” This verse isn’t just a cautionary statement; it’s a profound truth about the spiritual and social repercussions of our actions. When we judge others harshly, we set ourselves up to be judged by those same standards. This not only affects our personal spiritual growth but also how others perceive Christianity as a whole.

Contrary to popular belief, the Bible doesn’t command us never to judge. Instead, it calls for fair and righteous judgment. In John 7:24, Jesus says, “Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.” This directive is part of a larger dialogue where Jesus addresses the hypocrisy of the religious leaders of His time.

In John 7, Jesus is teaching in the temple courts during the Feast of Tabernacles. The Jewish leaders are astonished by His teaching and question His authority, seeking ways to undermine Him. They criticize Him for healing a man on the Sabbath, claiming it violates the law. Jesus responds by pointing out their hypocrisy. He reminds them that they perform circumcisions on the Sabbath to keep the law of Moses, yet they condemn Him for making a man whole on the Sabbath.

Jesus uses this opportunity to teach about righteous judgment. He urges them to look beyond superficial appearances and evaluate actions based on deeper, spiritual principles. Judging fairly requires us to consider the intent and the broader context rather than jumping to conclusions based on outward appearances or our own biases.

This lesson is crucial for us today. Often, we fall into the trap of making quick judgments based on limited information or preconceived notions. Jesus’ call to judge correctly invites us to practice discernment that is grounded in love, empathy, and understanding. We must seek to understand the full story, recognize our own biases, and approach others with a spirit of grace.

Fair judgment is not about overlooking sin or ignoring wrongdoing; it’s about applying the same grace and understanding to others that we would want for ourselves. It’s about being mindful of our own imperfections and striving to build others up rather than tearing them down.

In practicing righteous judgment, we reflect Christ’s love and wisdom, creating a more just and compassionate world. This approach aligns with the core message of the gospel and enhances our ability to witness effectively to those around us.

As Gentiles, our relationship with the Torah and the Law of Moses is different from that of the Jewish people. The early church grappled with this issue, especially in the context of Gentile converts. In Acts 15, the Council of Jerusalem addressed whether Gentile Christians needed to follow the Mosaic Law. The conclusion was that Gentiles were not bound by the entirety of the Law of Moses but were given specific guidelines to follow.

This understanding is crucial when it comes to judgment. We must recognize that applying the Law of Moses rigidly to fellow Gentiles can lead to unfair and unjust judgment. Romans 2:1-4 warns against passing judgment on others, highlighting that in doing so, we condemn ourselves because we are all guilty of sin. Paul emphasizes that God’s kindness, tolerance, and patience are meant to lead us to repentance, not harsh judgment.

Paul, a Jewish scholar and Pharisee of considerable standing, had a profound understanding of the limitations of religious law. In Philippians 3:8, he declares, “What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.” The term “garbage” (translated from the Greek word “skubalon,” which can also be rendered as “dung” or “crap”) signifies Paul’s perspective on religious accomplishments and adherence to the law compared to the value of knowing Christ.

By acknowledging our status as Gentiles and the grace we’ve received, we can approach others with humility and compassion. We are called to share the love of Christ, not to impose a legalistic standard that even we cannot fully uphold. This perspective helps us to judge righteously, focusing on the transformative power of grace rather than the condemnation of the law.

Paul’s declaration underscores that our faith is not about strict adherence to religious rules but about a relationship with Christ. This relationship transforms our hearts and minds, enabling us to extend the same grace and love to others that we have received. Instead of judging others based on a legalistic framework, we are invited to lead them toward the freedom and joy found in Christ.

In practicing righteous judgment, we reflect Christ’s love and wisdom, creating a more just and compassionate world. This approach aligns with the core message of the gospel and enhances our ability to witness effectively to those around us.

Our testimony is a powerful tool in sharing the gospel. However, being judgmental can tarnish that testimony. When people see Christians being harsh, critical, or hypocritical, it can turn them away from the faith. They may see us as no different from the rest of the world, or worse, as people who don’t practice what we preach. This creates a barrier to the message of Christ, making it harder for others to see the love and grace that is central to the gospel.

Jesus is the ultimate example of how we should treat others. He associated with tax collectors, sinners, and outcasts, showing them love and compassion rather than judgment. In John 8:7, when a woman caught in adultery was brought before Him, Jesus said, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” His response teaches us to reflect on our own imperfections before condemning others.

By embracing grace and humility, we create an environment where people feel safe to explore their faith without fear of judgment. This openness can lead to deeper conversations and opportunities to share the gospel.

The Great Commission, as stated in Matthew 28:19-20, calls us to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This mission requires us to be ambassadors of Christ’s love and grace. Being judgmental creates barriers to this mission, as it can push people away rather than drawing them in. When we approach others with love, compassion, and understanding, we embody the true spirit of the Great Commission.

In conclusion, being judgmental can hinder our testimony and our role in the Great Commission. By reflecting on our own actions, seeking to understand others, and embracing grace and humility, we can create a more welcoming and loving environment for sharing the gospel. Let’s strive to judge fairly, love deeply, and reflect Christ in all that we do. Remember, the way we treat others speaks volumes about our faith and can either open doors to the gospel or close them. Choose to be a beacon of Christ’s love in a world that desperately needs it.