How does self-examination in 1 Corinthians 11:31 relate to Matthew 7:5? Setting the Passages Side by Side • 1 Corinthians 11:31 – “For if we judged ourselves properly, we would not come under judgment.” • Matthew 7:5 – “You hypocrite! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” What Paul Is Saying in 1 Corinthians 11:31 • Context: the Lord’s Supper was being taken carelessly, bringing God’s discipline (vv. 27-30). • “Judged ourselves” = honest, Spirit-led scrutiny of motives, actions, and relationships before approaching the table. • Goal: avert divine chastening by confessing and turning from sin (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13). What Jesus Is Saying in Matthew 7:5 • Context: warning against hypocritical judgment. • “Beam” vs. “speck” highlights how our own sin can distort perception. • Sequence matters: – Remove the beam (personal repentance). – Then help a brother (restorative ministry). • Same Spirit: humility before correction. Shared Principles 1. Self-examination precedes any righteous action—worship (1 Corinthians 11) or correction (Matthew 7). 2. Both passages assume personal sin is real and must be faced honestly (Psalm 51:3; Romans 3:23). 3. The standard is God’s Word, not human opinion (Hebrews 4:12; James 1:23-25). 4. Proper self-judgment spares us heavier judgment—whether divine discipline (1 Corinthians 11:32) or public exposure (Luke 12:2-3). 5. Once cleansed, believers become useful conduits of grace for others (Galatians 6:1; 2 Timothy 2:21). Practical Steps for Ongoing Self-Examination • Ask the Spirit to search your heart (Psalm 139:23-24). • Compare thoughts, words, and deeds with clear commands (Ephesians 4:25-32; Colossians 3:5-14). • Confess immediately and specifically (1 John 1:9). • Accept Christ’s cleansing by faith (Hebrews 10:19-22). • Proceed to worship or serve others with renewed integrity. Fruit of a Examined Life • Fellowship with God remains unhindered (1 John 1:7). • The Lord’s Table becomes a celebration, not a cause of discipline. • Vision is cleared to discern and help others rightly. • The church enjoys unity and purity (Ephesians 4:1-3). • Personal joy and assurance deepen (Psalm 32:1-2; 2 Peter 1:10-11). |
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