Distorted: Judge Not
Pastor Ken delivers the second message in our new worship series, “Distorted: Misunderstood Passages of Scripture.” Last week, we explored “unanswered prayers.” This week, we explore one of the most well-known — and one of the most misunderstood — verses of Scripture. Even many non-Christians can quote it word for word, from the Gospel of Matthew: “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.” You’ve probably heard the same verse from the King James Version: “Judge not, lest ye be judged.” What did Jesus mean? Is there ever a time we can judge? When is it right to judge, and wrong to judge? How can we apply this teaching in our daily life?
Sermon Reflections:
- There is danger in judging others based on appearances alone. Can you think of a time you judged someone based on first impressions? How did this judgment change, if at all, as you got to know the person better?
- Pastor Ken contrasts judging others with discerning right from wrong. How can we make moral judgments without becoming overly critical or judgmental?
- Judging others can sometimes stem from a sense of self-righteousness and hypocrisy. Have you ever felt yourself becoming self-righteous? How can we guard against this tendency?
- We’re encouraged to “love intentionally, extravagantly, unconditionally.” How can we incorporate this kind of love into our daily lives, even for those who are difficult to love?
- If “mercy overrules judgment,” how can we practice mercy in our interactions with others, even when they make mistakes?
- Do you think it’s ever okay to judge someone? If so, when?
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