“Who are you to judge me?” It’s a phrase we’ve all encountered and perhaps even spoken in a heated moment. But have you ever paused to wonder why this reaction feels so instinctive? What’s really happening in our hearts when someone challenges us or points out an error? Is it pride, fear, or something deeper at work? Where did this mindset originate, and how does it shape the way we handle accountability? The answers might surprise you—and even change how you see yourself and others. It’s time to uncover the truth behind the question of whether or not we are to judge!
One of the most commonly misused and misunderstood scriptures is Matthew 7:1-2:
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
This verse has become a shield for those unwilling to face correction or accountability. But does Jesus truly forbid all forms of judgment? A closer look at the context and supporting scriptures reveals that Jesus calls for righteous, compassionate judgment—not hypocritical condemnation.
To understand the depth of this teaching, let’s explore key aspects of judgment and how they align with God’s Word.
1. Examine Yourself First
“And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” (Matthew 7:3-5)
Before you can righteously address the sin of another believer, you must confront your own. This principle requires deep humility and introspection. Jesus emphasizes that those who judge must first ensure their own hearts and actions align with God’s standards.
- Romans 2:1: “Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things.”
- Paul warns against the hypocrisy of judging others while living in the same sin.
- Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
- This prayer invites God to examine us so we can approach others with a pure heart.
Before confronting others, ask yourself:
- Am I living in unrepentant sin?
- Am I motivated by love or self-righteousness?
Judgment without self-examination leads to hypocrisy, but judgment after repentance becomes a tool for restoration.
2. Speak the Truth in Love
“Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15)
Truth without love is harsh and destructive, but love without truth is enabling and ineffective. Biblical judgment requires both—delivering truth with a heart of compassion. The goal is not to shame but to guide others toward repentance and restoration.
- Proverbs 27:5-6: “Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy.”
- True love doesn’t avoid hard conversations. Rebuke, when done in love, fosters growth.
- 1 Corinthians 13:6: “[Love] does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.”
- Love celebrates truth and seeks to align others with God’s righteousness.
When you approach another believer in judgment, consider:
- Am I doing this out of genuine love and concern?
- Am I prepared to walk with this person through repentance and restoration?
3. Be Redemption-Oriented
“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.” (Matthew 18:15)
Judgment should always aim for redemption, not condemnation. Jesus outlines a clear process for addressing sin in the body of Christ: begin privately, involve others if necessary, and ultimately restore the sinner to fellowship.
- Galatians 6:1: “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.”
- Restoration must be approached with humility and gentleness.
- James 5:19-20: “My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.”
- The goal of judgment is to save souls and restore fellowship with God.
- It is never about condemnation!
Ask yourself:
- Am I approaching this person to condemn them or to bring them back to Christ?
- Am I prepared to forgive and support them in their journey toward righteousness?
4. Avoid Superficial Judgments
“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” (John 7:24)
Superficial judgments are based on external factors—appearance, assumptions, or personal biases—rather than the truth of God’s Word. Jesus warns against judging hastily or without discernment.
- 1 Samuel 16:7: “For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
- Only God knows the true intentions and motivations of a person.
- Proverbs 18:13: “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.”
- Judging without full understanding leads to error.
Before making judgments, consider:
- Have I sought to understand the full context?
- Am I relying on God’s Word, or am I acting on assumptions or emotions?
5. Love Demands Truth
“Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” (Proverbs 27:6)
The most loving thing you can do for someone is to point them toward Christ. Ignoring sin or avoiding hard conversations isn’t compassion—it’s negligence. True love calls others to repentance and holiness.
- Hebrews 12:6: “For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and chastises every son whom He receives.”
- Discipline, when done in love, is a reflection of God’s character.
- 2 Timothy 4:2: “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”
- Bringing correction to other believers (who is actively participating in sin) is part of our responsibility as their brothers/sisters in Christ.
When you see someone in sin:
- Are you willing to have the uncomfortable conversation?
- Are you committed to walking with them through repentance?
The Heart of Righteous Judgment
Matthew 7:1-2 is not a prohibition against judgment but a warning against hypocrisy and arrogance. Jesus calls us to judge with humility, love, and a heart for redemption.
Remember:
- Judgment without self-examination leads to hypocrisy.
- Judgment without love leads to condemnation.
- Judgment without redemption leads to division.
Instead, Jesus calls us to practice righteous judgment that reflects His mercy and truth.
Final Thought: Are You Judging Like Christ?
As believers, we are called to be salt and light, preserving holiness and shining truth into darkness. This requires righteous judgment, but it also demands humility and love.
Ask yourself:
- Am I judging with the goal of restoration, or am I condemning for my own satisfaction?
- Am I approaching others with the same grace I desire from God?
- Am I reflecting the heart of Christ in my judgments?
Jesus didn’t say “Judge not” to make us passive or permissive. He said it to call us to higher accountability—a judgment tempered by mercy and guided by love. Judge righteously, and always remember: “With the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
