We did get a good snow last night and we’ve had a non-hurried day at home. We got a few things done and have just enjoyed some down time from regular routines. Thank You, Father, for each other and the beauty of Your creation!
Luke 6:37 (<<click to read the passage)
Years ago, singer and entertainer, Sammy Davis, Jr., used the catchphrase, “Here come da judge!” in a comedy bit. It was a part of his intro, then he would do some sort of humorous skit with a white judge’s wig and long black robe. It was all in good fun. But judging others, especially in the culture of today, is taken pretty seriously.
When someone judges us in some way, we are quick to spout off, “You have no right to judge me!” Even amongst followers of Jesus, we are swift to quote the beginning of this verse or its equal in Matthew 7:1,
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged.”
But if you take time to slowly and thoughtfully read today’s passage, it shines a different light on things.
“Do not judge [others self-righteously], and you will not be judged; do not condemn [others when you are guilty and unrepentant], and you will not be condemned [for your hypocrisy]; pardon [others when they truly repent and change], and you will be pardoned [when you truly repent and change]. Luke 6:37 (AMP)
And since you’ve read that, read the correlating footnote found under it in the Amplified Bible – read this thoughtfully, as well.
This is not a prohibition of judgment, nor is it a command to stop using godly wisdom, common sense, and moral courage together with God’s written word to discern right from wrong, to distinguish between morality and immorality, and to judge doctrinal truth. There are many judgments that are not only legitimate, but are commanded (cf John 7:24; 1 Cor 5:5, 12; Gal 1:8; 1 John 4:1-3; 2 John 10); however, you cannot judge another if you are committing the same type of sin.
Here’s the first reference from this footnote (but the rest very clearly make the point, as well – and you can click on them, too). Jesus said,
Do not judge by appearance [superficially and arrogantly], but judge fairly and righteously.” John 7:24 (AMP)
No one likes to be called out when we’re in the wrong but if we are going to hold each other accountable for our actions in serving Jesus, we’ve got to learn to deal with it.
Another reference from the footnote – the Apostle Paul is speaking here.
It isn’t my responsibility to judge outsiders, but it certainly is your responsibility to judge those inside the church who are sinning. 1 Corinthians 5:12 (NLT)
Yeah, it can sure sting but what’s more important, getting to heaven with toes that haven’t been stepped on or to be welcomed with a “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21)
Lord Jesus, may we welcome any that would help us along our journey to join You for eternity. May we graciously hear what is shared and may we also hold their words against Yours and take to heart and act upon what needs to change. You are ever molding us into Your perfect image. Amen.
Feb 13th, 2020, Thurs, 4:09 pm
