What does it mean to "judge," and why does the Bible say to "judge not"?

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What does it mean to "judge," and why does the Bible say to "judge not"?

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Jesus Christ said in His Sermon on the Mount: "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" (Matthew 7:1-2). Therefore, many assume that it is wrong to pass judgment of any sort, and that all people should be allowed to do whatever they feel is right.

Strong's Concordance notes that the word translated "judge" in Matthew 7:1 can also mean "condemn." What Christ was saying was that, as we are incapable of seeing a person's heart or knowing his or her relationship with God, we are not to take the place of God in making judgments about someone's motives or eternal salvation. And we should be humble, knowing our own weaknesses and sins.

However, in other sections of the Bible, Christ says very clearly, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34) and "a tree is known by its fruits" (Matthew 12:33). While we cannot see hearts, we can see—and judge—actions. There are times God calls on us to discern others' actions because of their effects on us. For example, the Bible tells us to avoid angry people and those whose sins may rub off on us (Proverbs 22:24; 1 Corinthians 5:11-12). Hebrews 5:14 tells us that the spiritually mature are "those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."

We are not to judge where a person stands with God, because we are simply incapable of doing so. But we must be able to "discern both good and evil" in the actions of ourselves as well as others in order to grow in wisdom and avoid falling into problems ourselves.

For an additional study tool, please read our booklet The New Covenant: Does it Abolish God's Law?

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Comments

  • GodLoves777

    For example, the Bible tells us to avoid angry people.

    What does that mean? Jesus was angry at the temple businessmen.

    I am mad often at my ex for neglecting my children and their feelings that she constantly does which is damaging my young children. So zi shouldn’t tell her or get angry at her behaviour and not tell her?

  • Skip Miller

    Hello Andre, The Apostle Paul did say,"Be angry (but) sin not." And as you mention, Jesus demonstrated righteous anger and it was real ! But it helps to have perfect understanding and proper timing which Jesus had. (We all wish we had that.) Can you be disappointed in other humans and not want to wipe them out? Of course, but it is hard at times. Keep trying. And when you are out of that immediate challenge situation, pray for the one you are upset with. God hears and can change people way better than you and I can,

  • Dennis Hagans

    I was trying to find any scriptures that might deal with people who judge God, not judging others, I already can search that out for myself in E-sword.

    Psa 14:1 got that, there are a few verses about God laughing and having them in derision.

    But I would like to know if the Word says anything about people who judge God, many atheists will cherry-pick the OT and find stuff that they think makes God a tyrant, such as a rapist having to marry his victim, or a female being doubly unclean if she bears a female,

    they have picked the Word apart looking for anything they can to raise accusation against God

    so are there scriptures about judging God?

  • Lena VanAusdle

    Hi Dennis, the only instance that I can find in the Bible of someone questioning or accusing God is Job (read chapter 7). But, ultimately, God is in control and everyone will have to answer for their actions, including accusing God of wrongdoing (Galatians 6:7).

  • JSal
    We are not to judge or condemn someone to hell. People can change and be brought out of the sin we think that are in. However, we are to use good judgment. If you see a group of guys in a dark alley with hoods on and carrying weapons, good judgment would say to avoid them. It's common sense. Be blessed and keep your eyes on the Lord God through Jesus the Christ.
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