Pastor David Morrison
Matthew 7:1-6 (NLT)
- Judgment is a problem...in fact, as we look at what Jesus is saying here, Christians should be among the least judgmental in the world, and yet the opposite often occurs.
Matthew 7:1-2 (NLT)
- This could have been Jesus joking around, but He somehow gets the point across. And He calls them hypocrites.
While words and actions not lining up is certainly part of it, it is possible for our words and actions to line up…and yet the intentions are off! Intentions of the heart matter to God. What motivates our judgement?
I have found that judgment is often Deflection and/or Projection.
My judgment is a mirror of myself. Unrighteous judgment ISOLATES people, DEHUMANIZES people, INFLATES our SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS. We call this condemnation.
This whole passage about judgment is about how our actions often tear people down and don’t lead to the right relationships! God cares that we are in right relationship with one another.
Matthew 7:5 (NLT)
- Before I judge someone and pretend to know their story and intention, have I done the hard work of examining my own soul?
Matthew 7:2b (NLT)
Galatians 6:1 (NLT)
- How you correct someone matters! Do it gently.
- Why you correct them a matters! Restore that person.
- It matters who corrects. Someone Spirit lead.
We need to use discernment to see things as God does. I can discern where someone is headed and work to restore them.
Matthew 7:6 (NLT)
- In the life of a believer, judgment is only reserved in rare circumstances for one believer to another.
1 Corinthians 4:3-5 (NIV)
- If possible, don't judge. God alone is the judge. Work hard to restore relationships and love people even when they make mistakes.
2 Corinthians 5:10 (NLT)
- This Upside-Down Kingdom of God is one of mercy and grace. God is the only one who can fully determine how our actions, words, thoughts, and intentions impact how we live our lives!
One of the greatest miracles in the Kingdom of God happens when people expect to find judgment and condemnation, and instead find love and compassion.
Repentance stokes the flame of a move of God. There is no condemnation for you today. Turn to Jesus.
