![[Photo of a Scripture verse]](https://www.deankwilson.com/Blog_images/Matthew_7_1.jpg)
| “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” |
| —Matthew 7:1 |
Many people use the phrase “Do Not Judge” as a way of controlling serious discussion about problems in our society. But, most of the time, that usage places the words of Jesus in a wrong context.
Here’s what Jesus actually said, as recorded in Matthew 7:1-5:
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?
“You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
The context makes several things clear. First of all, Jesus is talking about those who are joined together in the family of God—in other words, our brothers and sisters in Christ. The words of Jesus “Do not judge” applies to the familial relationship we have, not to society in general. Secondly, the purpose of not judging is so that we will invest our energy in removing the plank in our own eyes—that is, remove the sin in our own life first before we attempt to help our brothers and sisters remove the sin in their lives.
While we must always approach everyone with humility, kindness, and God-breathed love, we are not supposed to turn a blind eye to the evil influences in our world. Just as some strong-minded individuals cling to “science”—right up to the point where “science” no longer supports their position regarding social engineering—so we must not cling to our own ideas. Rather, we must rely on the whole counsel of God as expressed in His written Word.
As another new day opens up before us, let’s make certain that we deal with the sin in our own lives in a very forthright manner. This will then allow us to lovingly and carefully help our brothers and sisters in Christ deal with the issues they face in their own lives. Together, as a family, we can move forward and bring glory to God.
