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TheDiscipleMD

The ‘Sermon on the Mount’ finds this counsel from Jesus, which is given in various places and ways in other parts of the New Testament.

“For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” (Matthew 7:2)

Often the charge is leveled by those who feel they are being judged by their behavior, that followers of Christ need to be better about obeying this charge. And Christians as a whole can certainly do a lot better. However, I have also noted that those who feel they are being judged by others tend to be just as guilty in falling short of this basic tenant as their fellow bothers and sisters. That is, ‘the judged turn into judges.’

Simply because one doesn’t approve of another’s lifestyle or actions doesn’t mean they are guilty of, or motivated by hate. And while some people certainly are unchristian in their treatment of others, grouping everyone who takes a position on a moral principle into such a category is just as abhorrent.

I take comfort in the fact that the ultimate judge is going to be Christ, and he knows the intention of all our hearts. Until then mistakes will be made by all regarding His commandments and the interpretation thereof.

Till then, it is best for us to do our best in following the two great commandments to love God and our neighbor. I believe loving our neighbors can include making ‘righteous’ judgments about life which is swirling around us, while being kind, thoughtful, and respectful of others choices.