Judge Not

Judge Not:
Showing Grace and Mercy

Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:1-2

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Introduction

It is easy to look at others and point out their flaws. However, Jesus calls us to a different standard—one of love, grace, and humility. In Matthew 7:1-2, Jesus warns us against judging others harshly, reminding us that the same measure we use will be applied to us. Today, we will explore why we should refrain from judging others and instead extend God’s grace.

1. Judging Others is Not Our Role

As humans, we are often quick to make assumptions about others based on appearances, actions, or mistakes. However, we must remember that only God sees the full picture of a person’s heart and circumstances.

• Example from Scripture: The Pharisees and the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11). The religious leaders wanted to condemn her, but Jesus showed mercy, saying, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone” (John 8:7).

• Personal Application: Instead of looking for faults in others, we should examine our own hearts. Are we extending the same mercy to others that God has shown to us?

2. We All Fall Short and Need Grace

None of us are perfect. We all have weaknesses and make mistakes. When we judge others harshly, we forget that we, too, have been forgiven by God.

• Example from Scripture: The parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:21-35). A servant who was forgiven a great debt refused to show mercy to someone who owed him much less. This parable reminds us that we should extend the same grace to others that we have received from God.

• Personal Application: If God has forgiven our sins, how can we withhold forgiveness and understanding from others?

3. Show Love Instead of Judgment

Instead of being quick to judge, we should be quick to love. Love covers a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8) and draws people closer to God.

• Example from Scripture: Jesus and Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10). Instead of condemning Zacchaeus, a tax collector known for corruption, Jesus invited Himself to his house. This act of love led Zacchaeus to repentance and transformation.

• Personal Application: How can we show love to someone we might have been tempted to judge? A kind word, an act of kindness, or simply listening without condemning can make a difference.

Conclusion: A Call to Grace and Humility

Before we judge others, let us remember that we are all in need of God’s grace. Instead of condemning, let us encourage. Instead of criticizing, let us pray for one another.

Call to Action

This week, let us be intentional about showing grace instead of judgment. If we find ourselves tempted to criticize, let’s choose to pray for that person instead. May we be known as people who reflect God's love and mercy.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the grace You have shown us. Help us to see others through Your eyes and to extend the same love and mercy that You have given us. Keep us from a judgmental heart and fill us with compassion. In Jesus’ name, Amen.