Apologist and author, Jimmy Akin, discusses Jesus' teaching on judging others. He clarifies the misconception that Christians shouldn't criticize others' lifestyles. Jesus expects his followers to distinguish between good and evil and not turn a blind eye to moral evil in the world.
Recognizing the difference between good and evil, Christians should not ignore or approve immoral behavior.
Approaching discussions of others' behavior with forgiveness and generosity while still acknowledging the difference between good and evil.
Deep dives
Jesus' Teaching on Judging Others
Jesus' exhortation not to judge others does not mean Christians should ignore or approve immoral behavior. In Matthew 5:1-7:29 and Luke 6:17-49, Jesus discusses moral instruction and expects his followers to distinguish between good and evil. While we should be forgiving and merciful towards others, it doesn't mean we should ignore immoral behavior. Admonishing the sinner is a spiritual work of mercy (James 5:20). Jesus emphasizes treating others as we want to be treated (Matthew 5:43-48).
The Misuse of 'Do Not Judge'
The exhortation not to judge is often used as a conversation stopper to shut down discussions of immoral behavior. However, when people use this to accuse others of wrongdoing, they themselves are hypocritically judging (Matthew 7:3-5). Christians should approach discussions of others' behavior with a generous and forgiving attitude, while still recognizing the difference between good and evil and striving to help others.
DAY 269
CHALLENGE
“Christians shouldn’t criticize others’ lifestyles or actions. Didn’t Jesus say not to judge?”
DEFENSE
Jesus didn’t tell us that we should close our eyes to moral evil in the world.
The exhortation not to judge is found in Jesus’ major ethical discourse (Matt. 5:1–7:29, Luke 6:17–49). The point of the discourse is to give moral instruction. In it, Jesus discusses what conduct counts as good and bad, and he expects his followers to acknowledge the difference.
Not only does he expect them to distinguish between good and evil in their own behavior, he also expects them…
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