Judge not

How often have you been talking to a fellow Christian and something comes up about their conduct and they respond with “judge not lest ye be judged?” Frequently, you will have a non-Christian say that. They know that one phrase so well! And yes, it is true. At any rate, that response usually ends that conversation. Occasionally, the conversation ends with hurting toes and feelings. Why?

All of us have a tendency to take one phrase and take it to be all encompassing. An example is given above.  There is much, much more to it. As an instruction manual, the Bible sometimes leaves us confused, scratching our heads. While the Bible is a “how-to” book, you have to look through pages and pages until we understand the point. The instructions of Christ in Matthew 7:1 “Judge not, that ye be not judged” seem pretty straightforward. It suggests that we should never tell another Christian when they are doing something wrong. Is that what it means? Is that all there is too it? No. And, no.

Paul’s teaching in Galatians and 2nd Timothy follows up on Matthew 7:1. Galatians 6:1, “…if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” I look at this to mean that if you see someone committing a sin, show their sin, but do not be tempted to do so in a overbearing, superior fashion. Softly, privately, tell them their error in a loving, concerned way without being critical. This is not judging.

When pressed with explain the contradiction to Matthew 7:1, I refer to 2 Timothy 3:16-17:  “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” Does this make it acceptable to correct a fellow Christian? I say, “yes.” “Yes,” as long as you do it in the proper manner. Do not laud over those in error. Do not act superior or oppressive.

It is the responsibility of Christians to take care of each other. This extends to telling a fellow Christian they are sinning. As a Christian, you Salvation does not hinge on being helpful to others in this manner. In the long run, however when you stand in front of the Judge, it will not be mark of error. I think the opposite is true. Failing to help another Christian and causing a third person from seeking Salvation will be a mark that requires answering.

Help another Christian if you see them in error, but do not do so in error.