What is the meaning of Matthew 7:1? Do not judge • Jesus issues a clear, literal command: “Do not judge” (Matthew 7:1). • He forbids a spirit of condemnation that sets us up as final authority over others. Luke 6:37 repeats the warning: “Do not judge, and you will not be judged”. • This is not a ban on discernment; John 7:24 balances it: “Stop judging by appearances, and make a righteous judgment”. We are to assess actions wisely while refusing a harsh, self-righteous attitude. • Romans 14:4 asks, “Who are you to judge someone else’s servant?”, reminding us that fellow believers answer to the Lord, not to us. • James 4:11-12 cautions that when we judge, we assume God’s role: “There is only one Lawgiver and Judge”. or you will be judged • The second clause states the consequence: if we persist in condemning others, we invite God’s scrutiny on the same terms. Matthew 7:2 immediately explains, “For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you”. • This principle echoes throughout Scripture: – James 2:13: “Judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful”. – Galatians 6:7: “Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return”. – Romans 2:1 warns that judging others while practicing the same sins leaves us “without excuse”. • God’s final evaluation is certain: “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:10). Showing mercy now anticipates that day. summary Matthew 7:1 literally commands believers to refrain from a condemning posture toward others. We must practice discerning love, not harsh judgment, remembering that the standards we apply will be applied to us. Extending mercy honors God’s rightful place as Judge and positions us to receive His mercy in return. |
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