How can we avoid making false assumptions like those in Matthew 11:18? Seeing the Issue in Matthew 11:18 “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon!’” (Matthew 11:18) People watched John’s rugged lifestyle, jumped to a conclusion, and missed God’s messenger. False assumptions still trip us up, but Scripture gives clear ways to steer clear of them. Why We Slip Into False Assumptions • We rely on appearances instead of heart realities (1 Samuel 16:7). • We speak before gathering the facts (Proverbs 18:13). • We value popular opinion over divine revelation (John 7:24). • We let emotion outrun discernment (James 1:19). Four Scriptural Safeguards 1. Listen Fully Before Concluding – “He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him.” (Proverbs 18:13) – Slow down conversations; ask clarifying questions; repeat back what you think you heard. 2. Compare Every Claim with God’s Word – The Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11) – Keep a daily reading habit; when a report or rumor surfaces, look for biblical principles that confirm or deny it. 3. Evaluate Fruit, Not Rumor – “By their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:16) – John’s life bore repentance and righteousness. Weigh a person’s consistent output, not a single snapshot. 4. Seek Wise Counsel – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) – Invite mature believers to speak into tough calls; their outside perspective exposes blind spots. Practical Daily Habits • Read a chapter of Scripture before scrolling news or social media; let God’s truth set your lens. • Memorize John 7:24 and Proverbs 18:17; recall them whenever a headline or comment sparks instant judgment. • Practice a five-second pause before reacting; silently pray, “Lord, help me judge righteously.” • Keep a “fruit journal”—observe patterns in people or ministries over time, rather than single events. Jesus Shows the Better Way Crowds mislabeled John and then called Jesus “a glutton and a drunkard” (Matthew 11:19). Yet the Son kept serving, teaching, and laying down His life, proving that truth is vindicated by long-term obedience. When we follow His pattern—patient, fact-gathering, Scripture-anchored—we stay clear of the snap judgments that buried so many in Matthew 11. Closing Reflection God’s Word exposes the folly of rash assumptions and equips us to judge with His clarity. By listening carefully, checking everything against Scripture, looking for lasting fruit, and leaning on godly counsel, we can avoid the mistake made about John—and recognize God’s work when it stands right in front of us. |
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