Romans – Week 2
Judgment
Have you ever felt judged? Would you consider yourself ‘judgmental’? Christians can be known for being judgmental in a way that feels unloving, and it’s a turn-off to the world. But Jesus did say it was ok to call others out for things they’re doing wrong. So…what’s the balance?
6 Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces. Matthew 7:6
Two questions:
- What happens when you judge?
- What happens when God judges?
When We Judge
1 We pass judgment on ourselves.
You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Romans 2:1
2 Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. Romans 2:2
3 So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Romans 2:3
5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. Matthew 7:5
When other people sin, we act like a judge.
When we sin, we act like a lawyer.
We need to worry less about judging others and more about God’s judgment on us.
When we judge:
- We pass judgement on ourselves.
- We push people away from God.
Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? Romans 2:4
Remorse – you are sorry
Repentance – you are forgiven
The difference is a change in behavior.
5 But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. Romans 2:5
NEXT STEPS
- Stop judging others
- Repent
- Live in the truth