Judgment versus reproof

Matthew 7:1-2 (NJKV)

1 “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged.

The verses above are a reminder that we should always first consider our own actions in life and do what is right and just.  The comments were directed at the scribes and Pharisees who were harsh in condemning all around them. They judged the actions of people and placed harsh punishments upon them as judgment for their actions. It is not that we should hold back reproof, but we must have our own lives in order. For reproof is given to benefit another in order to help them see the faults in their life. The difference between judgment and reproof is that with reproof you are explaining how to make right what is wrong, while judgment passes condemnation on the actions.

I used the verses above this morning after seeing a picture posted on Facebook of a sign that read Cabaret Lunch Topless and then underneath was posted “You quote Job 31:1, we reply Matthew 7:1”. As someone commented, “Even Satan knows the word of God and will twist it around to continue to enslave others.

Job 31:1 says, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust at a young woman.” This was one of many statements Job made trying to present a case that he was a good man; for his friends judged that his pain and suffering were results of sinful actions he might have committed. It brings to mind the phrase, “With friends like this, who needs enemies?” These friends were wrong in their assumptions and their judgment was incorrect. Job had done no wrong, but instead God was testing the strength of Job’s faith.

If Job had made the comment to the owner of the establishment he would have been right to do so for Job was commenting on himself. There is no wrong in holding onto and abiding by the moral principles of God in one’s life. Now it would be a different story making that comment and then saying “You are going to hell because you aren’t doing the same.” In that statement you would be condemning by judgment without authority to do so.  

Avoid judging others, but know it is okay to state God’s word and to remind others of what God has said. Reproof is a form of encouragement to do what is right. Judgment is a form of condemnation for the acts done. Remember we are to love one another and also encourage one another. If our reproof is correct the person will understand our love for them.