A biblical overview of judging/not judging
When it comes to judging and not judging, there’s often a point of contention on what this means and looks like. So, how are we to understand the Bible's teachings on this matter?
This biblical overview of judging and not judging explores key passages, considers cultural contexts, and unpacks what it means to exercise discernment with grace and humility. Whether you're seeking clarity on how to navigate this practically in your life, or simply curious about what the Bible says, this overview sheds light on this complex yet crucial topic.
“Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”
- New American Standard Bible, 1995, Matt. 7:1-5
WhAT IS JUDGEMENT IN THE BIBLE?
We all know that we aren’t supposed to judge, but we aren’t all clear on what that means. Does “not judging” mean that we fail to call wrong, wrong? Does “not judging” mean that we forgo speaking the truth in love?
To start, we need to ask, what is NOT judgment in the Bible? Judgment is NOT failing to exercise discernment, administer discipline, make a determination of justice, and declare God’s truth. With this understanding, what does “not judging” actually mean in the Bible?
It means that we are commanded NOT to assess beyond God’s word, where it is both self-elevating and other-degrading. Ultimately, God is the judge, and God’s Word is His judgment. If we stay under it and evaluate according to it, we are judging rightly. If we change His standard or judge according to the standard of “I,” we now are judging wrongly. Having this right understanding will help you stay under God’s word in different encounters as opposed to going off how you feel or deciding based on your own moral view of right and wrong.
Shane Farmer
Serves as the Lead Pastor of Revolution Church. He and his wife, Wendy, have three sons: Josiah, Charlie, and Marshall.
Rebekah Layton
Serves as the Associate Pastor of Revolution Church. She and her husband, Josh, have one daughter, Zuriel.
Learn More About Revolution Church
Our GoalS
1. Steward Revival for Maximum Impact
We believe the tsunami of God’s next great move is approaching shore and are committed not to reject the new thing God is doing, but to participate in the full acceleration His Spirit’s moving brings. We do not exist to sustain or maintain what is, but believe status quo has got to go to make way for Kingdom advancement.
2. Sustain the Gain for a Lifetime
We seek to sustain an open heaven for a lifetime, and therefore, desire to be very diligent about the intersections of Worship and Prayer, Word and Spirit.
3. Raise Up Titans of the Faith
We feel called to pursue power over prevalence, purity over prominence and perseverance over popularity. We believe Christ commends a pure and spotless bride, not a bloated bride. We have a goal of raising up tomorrow’s spiritual giants who are wholly devoted to His person, His praise and His purposes, as we know the Lord’s eyes look throughout the earth seeking to show Himself strong to those whose hearts are wholly devoted to Him (2 Chr 16:9). We believe the church exists to comfort the afflicted but also to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not to coddle each other in partial obedience.
4. Pure Praise
We long to be King Davids of the Kingdom, leading the way for pure praise that catches the attention of heaven, elevating worship as the chief end of the church.
5. Catalyze a Prayer Movement
We want to be driven and directed in dependence lived out through intercessory and inquiring prayer. We intercede because we believe God is, God answers and God acts. We inquire out of a desire to be led by Him, not trusting our own skills, strategies or schemes but His guidance.
6. Raise Up a Joshua and Caleb Generation
Only two of approximately two million had the faith to persevere in pursuit of God’s promise. We know what God has revealed about the test of faith coming to the next generation and we are burdened to pass on a baton of persevering faith to the future generation.
7. Fight for Every One
We refuse to leave our community uncontended and uncontested, but instead, we are unapologetically on mission for every life and every eternity.
