Matthew 7:2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Matthew 7:2 is part of the concluding section of the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 7:1, Jesus told the listeners not to judge others. This then leads into the next verse, which we will explore a bit more in depth today.
We are told that in the same way we judge others, we are judged. Whether that is literal or more figurative, I am not certain, but regardless the message is clearly not to pass judgement on others. The verse is a warning against hypocritical attitudes and condemnation. In verse 7 in the original Greek, the word used is krino. We have learned this word in previous devotions this month but to refresh our memories the direct translation means to condemn, treat with contempt, or act as the ultimate judge over someone’s soul.
Why do we think we have any right to judge others? Just because we are Christians it doesn’t mean we are better than others or have a higher station in life. We are sinners just as much as they are and we make just as many mistakes. We should put ourselves in God’s place in declaring people righteous or unrighteous because we are not qualified to make that determination. We cannot see their heart or know the depth of their sins.
We must remember not to determine something unfair or inappropriate because God has not given us any authority to do so. Those who pass judgment on others try to put themselves in a position they shouldn’t because they try to take God’s place of judgment over His people and that is wrong.
I don’t know about you but I don’t want to have God judge me in any way. Just like anyone, I have found myself passing judgement on someone without knowing the whole story or seeing all of the details. And I don’t want Him to judge me in the same manner I have judged others.
It is a humbling thought to know that the same manner in which we have passed judgement on others is what God says He will use to judge us. We need to learn to practice self-reflection and prioritize the giving of grace to others rather than doling out correction or judgement. We have been given grace upon grace and we need to be generous in giving grace to others.
Prayer: Lord, I don’t want to be judged in the same manner that I have judged others. Forgive me for not extending grace to them and instead passing judgement. Amen
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