Luke 6:37

Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

Study Bible

Do not judge
The Greek word for "judge" here is "κρίνω" (krinō), which means to separate, distinguish, or make a decision. In the context of first-century Judea, judging often involved a legal or moral decision-making process. Jesus is teaching His followers to refrain from making harsh or hypocritical judgments about others. This aligns with the broader biblical principle of humility and self-awareness, recognizing that only God has the ultimate authority to judge the hearts and actions of individuals. The call is to focus on self-examination and to extend grace to others, reflecting God's mercy.

and you will not be judged
This phrase emphasizes the reciprocal nature of judgment. The promise here is that if we refrain from judging others, we will not be subject to judgment ourselves. This is not to suggest that we will escape all forms of judgment, but rather that we will not face the same harsh scrutiny we might impose on others. It reflects the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, where the measure we use for others will be used for us (Luke 6:38). It encourages believers to live in a way that mirrors God's grace and mercy.

Do not condemn
The Greek term "καταδικάζω" (katadikazō) means to pronounce guilty or to pass an adverse sentence. In the historical context, condemnation was often a legal term, but Jesus uses it here to address interpersonal relationships. The instruction is to avoid declaring others as irredeemable or beyond God's grace. This teaching aligns with the Christian understanding of redemption and the belief that all people have the potential for repentance and transformation through Christ.

and you will not be condemned
This promise mirrors the earlier assurance regarding judgment. It suggests that by refraining from condemning others, we will not face condemnation ourselves. This reflects the heart of the Gospel, where Jesus offers forgiveness and redemption rather than condemnation (John 3:17). It encourages believers to adopt a posture of grace, recognizing that we are all in need of God's mercy.

Forgive
The Greek word "ἀπολύω" (apolyō) means to release or set free. Forgiveness in the biblical sense involves releasing others from the debt of their wrongs against us. In the cultural context of Jesus' time, forgiveness was a radical concept, often countercultural to the prevailing norms of retribution and justice. Jesus calls His followers to embody a spirit of forgiveness, reflecting the forgiveness we have received from God through Christ.

and you will be forgiven
This promise underscores the transformative power of forgiveness. It suggests that as we forgive others, we open ourselves to receive God's forgiveness. This is a central tenet of Christian faith, where forgiveness is both a gift received and a gift given. It encourages believers to live in a state of grace, continually extending and receiving forgiveness as a reflection of God's love and mercy. This teaching is a call to embody the heart of the Gospel, living out the radical love and forgiveness that Jesus demonstrated.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, delivering a sermon that includes teachings on love, mercy, and forgiveness.

2. Disciples
The primary audience of Jesus' teachings, representing all followers of Christ.

3. The Sermon on the Plain
The context in which this teaching is delivered, similar to the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew, focusing on ethical and moral instructions.

Teaching Points

Avoiding Judgment
Jesus calls us to refrain from judging others, recognizing that we are all fallible and in need of grace.

The Greek word for "judge" implies a critical and condemning attitude, which we are to avoid.

Condemnation and Mercy
Condemnation is a step beyond judgment, involving a final verdict. Jesus teaches us to leave ultimate judgment to God.

By not condemning, we reflect God's mercy, which is central to the Christian faith.

The Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings, essential for personal peace and community harmony.

The Greek word for "forgive" suggests releasing or letting go, which is crucial for spiritual freedom.

Reciprocity in Relationships
The principle of reciprocity is evident: how we treat others will influence how we are treated.

This teaching encourages self-reflection and humility in our interactions.

Living Out the Gospel
By embodying these principles, we live out the gospel message, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ's love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the original Greek word for "judge" (krin?) deepen our comprehension of Jesus' command in this verse?

2. In what ways can we practice forgiveness in our daily lives, and how does this reflect the character of Christ?

3. How do the teachings in Luke 6:37 align with the broader message of mercy and grace found throughout the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to avoid a judgmental attitude towards others, especially within our church community?

5. How can the principle of reciprocity in Luke 6:37 influence our relationships with non-believers and serve as a witness to the gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 7:1-2
This passage parallels Luke 6:37, emphasizing the principle of not judging others to avoid being judged ourselves.

James 4:11-12
James warns against speaking evil of one another and judging, reinforcing the idea that God alone is the lawgiver and judge.

Ephesians 4:32
Paul encourages believers to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving, just as God forgave us in Christ, echoing the call to forgiveness in Luke 6:37.

Romans 2:1-3
Paul discusses the danger of judging others while committing the same sins, highlighting the hypocrisy that Jesus warns against.