Some cite this passage as a distraction, using it to blame others and sidestep their own guilt. You’re just as bad for judging me for what I’m doing as I am for doing it, so your guilt cancels mine.

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Yes, some may “judge” in a condemning way, and that is what Jesus rebukes here. But there is also a way to “judge” in a discerning way that proves helpful to our spiritual growth.

What Is Discernment?

What is discernment? John tells us in 1 John 4:1: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

How many times have we been told, “Don’t judge lest ye be judged?” For many that may well be the only scripture they think they know. I wonder what they might think about Luke 4 when Jesus told His disciples, “If your brother sins, rebuke him,”

And Jesus goes on,”and if he repents, forgive him,” … That is what righteous judgment, honest rebuke is for. To steer our brothers and sisters toward repentance. That is love.

We Can’t Be Hypocrites.

Of course, we can’t be hypocrites. We can’t have a log in our own eye. We must be diligent and true in our own holiness.

But, to never rebuke, to never warn, to never help, is not brotherly love. It is selfish, comfortable, avoidance. And friends, Sin of Omission, is a great sin indeed.

It is not our place to condemn people – ever. But judging in a discerning way, being first concerned with our own hearts and then extending to those for whom we have spiritual responsibility, is a way to ‘stir up one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24).

Our Motive.

Our motive is not to find fault, but always to love and build up. To “judge” is to help, not tear down. And we are obligated to do just that.

~ Gitty Up, Dutch.

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