Tag: Matthew 7:1

What Jesus was really saying in Matthew 7:1 when he said “judge not”

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JEFF TURNER

Matthew 7:1, “Judge not, that you be not judged,” is probably one of the verses most often pulled out of context in everyday conversation. Many people use it to argue that Christians should never criticise anyone or declare one view better than another on any topic. But that reading falls apart the moment you look at what Jesus said just a few verses later in the very same passage, where he tells his listeners to watch for false teachers and identify them by their fruit.

Jesus was not telling his listeners to stop making judgements. He was addressing people who believed they had the authority to render final verdicts on others, specifically the religious leaders of his day who saw themselves as the ultimate judges of all people. His point was that God alone holds that position, and anyone who tries to claim it for themselves will face divine judgement for doing so. Discernment, evaluation, and even calling out false teaching are all things scripture encourages. What Jesus was pushing back against was the arrogance of placing yourself in the seat that belongs only to God.

Do not judge by the outward appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

John 7:24

What It Really Means Not to Judge

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

JEFF TURNER

Many people, especially those outside the Christian faith, turn to Matthew 7:1, “Judge not, lest you be judged,” when they feel challenged about sin. But this verse is often misunderstood. Jesus was not saying that believers should never make judgments. Instead, He was warning against taking the place of God by acting as if we have final authority over others.

Just a few verses later, in the same chapter, Jesus says not to give what is holy to dogs or to throw pearls before pigs. To follow that instruction, a person has to make a judgment. I’m speaking of a judgement that involves spiritual understanding. This shows that some level of discernment is necessary when handling sacred things, especially the message of the gospel.

The warning in Matthew 7:1 is really about pride and hypocrisy. Jesus was speaking against the religious leaders of the time who were treating others harshly, as if they had God’s insight and power. While Christians are called to evaluate right from wrong, they must remember that only God can make the final judgment, because only He sees everything clearly.

Do not judge by the outward appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

John 7:24