Don’t Judge

It may be the best known Bible verse in our culture: “Judge not, that you be not judged” (Matt. 7:1). The verse fits well into our “tolerant” society. But it is also one of the most misunderstood verses. Too many people take Jesus’ words to be a blanket rejection of all moral evaluation. But the verse does not mean that we can never judge anything. Otherwise how could we keep the commandment in verse 6, which says “Do not give what is holy to the dogs”? A moral judgment must be made about certain people to keep this commandment, right?

Jesus also alludes to false prophets in sheep’s clothing in verse 15. So, being judgmental is not the same as making ethical and doctrinal demands and saying to someone “you are right” and to another “you are wrong.” Still, after all the necessary qualifications, we must not mute this important command. At our worst, we are apt to assume the worst about other people. We are often too eager to compare ourselves with others, especially if they make us look good! We are quick to give people the once over and think we have them figured out. But I have learned over the years–both as the giver and receiver of judgmental assumptions–that it’s best not to assume.

Don’t assume you know all the facts after hearing one side of the story.

Don’t assume the person is guilty just because strong charges are made against him.

Don’t assume you understand a blogger’s heart after reading one post.

Don’t assume the divorced person is to blame for the divorce.

Don’t assume the single mom or dad isn’t trusting God.

Don’t assume the small church that struggles is failing.

Don’t assume bad kids are the result of bad parents.

Don’t assume your parents are clueless.

Don't assume your children are doing bad things.

Don’t assume the rich are stingy.

Don’t assume the poor are lazy.

Don’t assume you have interpreted the emotions of the email correctly.

Don’t assume everyone has forgotten about you.

Don’t assume the repentance isn’t genuine.

Don’t assume the forgiveness isn’t sincere.

Don’t assume God can’t change you.

Don’t assume God can’t love you.

Don’t assume God can’t love them.