Why is it important to address our own faults before judging others? Setting the Scene—Matthew 7:3 “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but fail to notice the beam in your own eye?” God’s Design for Personal Examination • Scripture calls us to look inward first. – Psalm 139:23–24: “Search me, O God… see if there is any offensive way in me.” – 1 Corinthians 11:28: “Each one must examine himself…” • Personal repentance keeps us in step with a holy God (1 Peter 1:15–16). • The Spirit’s conviction is meant to produce growth, not shame (John 16:8; Romans 8:1). Dangers of Ignoring Our Own Sin • Hypocrisy—outward religion without inward reality (Matthew 23:27). • Distorted judgment—“in the same way you judge, you will be judged” (Matthew 7:2). • Relational damage—unconfessed sin hardens hearts (Hebrews 3:13). • Divine discipline—God resists the proud (James 4:6). Benefits of Self-Correction Before Speaking into Others’ Lives • Clear vision—removing the beam lets us see truthfully (Matthew 7:5). • Compassion—remembering our own weakness tempers our tone (Galatians 6:1). • Credibility—confession builds trust; hidden sin destroys it (Proverbs 28:13). • Church health—when each member pursues holiness, the whole body flourishes (Ephesians 4:16). Practical Steps to Remove the Beam 1. Invite the Lord’s searchlight daily (Psalm 26:2). 2. Confess specifically—name the sin, agree with God (1 John 1:9). 3. Repent decisively—turn from it and toward obedience (Acts 3:19). 4. Seek accountability—faithful wounds of a friend refine us (Proverbs 27:6). 5. Rest in Christ’s cleansing—His blood purifies completely (Hebrews 9:14). Living Out Christ’s Call Today Tending to our own hearts first keeps us humble, usable, and loving. Then, with eyes cleared by grace, we can gently help others remove their specks—always mindful that the same mercy rescuing us is available to them. |
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