Judge With Righteous Judgment

Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment. - John 7:24

Probably one of the most misused statements that Jesus ever made (by Christians and non-Christians alike) is found in the Book of Matthew (7:1). It is, "Judge not, lest ye be judged," typically delivered in the King James English for greater effect.

Unfortunately, contrary to Jesus' intent, these words have been taken out of context and used to justify practically any behavior (no matter how harmful) in favor of the broad acceptance of moral relativism. So, what did Jesus' intend to teach? John 7:24 seems to shed some additional light.

May we judge another person? Yes, but in doing so we must be sure to temper any "prejudice" based upon what we might perceive with our physical senses (eyes, ears, or nose). While these all might lead us to a first impression, or even identify the unrighteous actions of another, they stop short of revealing motivation. Am I saying that actions don't matter? God forbid. No, I am saying that actions and motivation are linked, and that only God can truly judge both perfectly.

To judge another righteously is to equally apply God's justice and His grace. In all things, let us acknowledge that with any measure we use, we invite the same to be used on us.

Prejudice is a learned trait. You're not born prejudiced; you're taught it. - Charles Swindoll