The Temptation to Judge
When they continued to ask Jesus their question,
he raised up and said, “Anyone here who has never sinned
can throw the first stone at her.”
John 8:7 NCV
The warning of Matthew 7:1 is clear: “Judge not, that ye be not judged” (KJV). Yet even the most devoted Christians may fall prey to a powerful yet subtle temptation: the temptation to judge others. But as obedient followers of Christ, we are commanded to refrain from such behavior.
As Jesus came upon a young woman who had been condemned by the Pharisees, He spoke not only to the crowd that was gathered there, but also to all generations when He warned, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” ( John 8:7 KJV). Christ’s message is clear, and it applies not only to the Pharisees of ancient times, but also to us.
Forget the faults of others by remembering your own. - John Bunyan, 100 Days of Prayer
Only Christ can free us from the prison of legalism, and then only if we are willing to be freed. - Madeleine L’Engle
Judging draws the judgment of others. - Catherine Marshall
Being critical of others, including God, is one way we try to avoid facing and judging our own sins. - Warren Wiersbe
Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord, sometimes I am quick to judge others. But, You have commanded me not to judge. Keep me mindful, Father, that when I judge others, I am living outside of Your will for my life. You have forgiven me, Lord. Let me forgive others, let me love them, and let me help them . . . without judging them. Amen
