Read 1 Corinthians Chapter 5
“Judge not, that you be not judged.”
Matthew 7:1
This verse in my opinion is one of the most quoted verses by non-Christian people, even though they don’t know where to find it, They just know it says don’t judge. But as you read today’s chapter, it presents a rather sordid account of the Corinthian Church!
They're a real problem. Paul says this in verse 3: “For I indeed, as absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged (as though I were present) him who has so done this deed." He judges again in verse 12: "For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside?”
So what gives here? Jesus said don’t judge and Paul by the inspiration of God says to judge. The word judge means to condemn and also determine. Jesus was saying don’t condemn people, don[t be self righteous, and exclude people because you're so good and they're so bad. Paul was saying to determine what is right. Trust me it’s a different spirit!
Folks, here is some common sense. I have 3 single daughters at this time. If a young man is interested in dating one of them and I hear he is a known drug dealer, you'd better believe I am going to get involved and determine he is not good for my daughter. Now if I said, well I'd better not judge him, I would certainly be a poor father! But at same time if a known drug dealer came to my church and wanted help, and I rejected him and basically wished him to hell, I would be condemning him without any mercy.
So folks, don’t let the world confuse you with this. We make judgments and determinations everyday, so let’s pray for wisdom and guidance and always err on the side of mercy!
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