In this chapter Jesus is teaching us not to judge people because a lot of us are very good at judging.
What does it mean to judge someone? This could mean an opinion or decision bases on thoughts, feelings, and evidence. We can also say to express an opinion in most cases a bad opinion on someone’s behaviour/attitude, often because we think we are better than them. Jesus gave us an illustration; He said why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye. In other words, Jesus was teaching that why do you see the fault or sin that is in your brothers’ and not realize that you have the same fault or similar problem with you even in a greater magnitude. (A lot of us are on this table, and the name of this table is called Hypocrisy). You do not Judge, you do not criticize, you do not condemn, because the measure you use to deal out to others, will be used against you.
Let us take an example from John 8:1-11. This is the story of a woman caught in adultery. The scribes and the Pharisee brought in a woman who had been caught in adultery and they stood her in plain sight of everyone. They asked Jesus what he thinks about the situation. They were trying to trap Him into saying something incriminating so they could bring charges against Him. Jesus bent down and wrote something in the dirt, ‘’The sinless one among you go first: ‘Throw the stone’’. Hearing that, they walked away one after another beginning with the oldest.
This is a very practical example of hypocrisy; we criticize people for the very same thing that we do. The attitude of the scribes and pharisee is relatable even in this present day. They judged this lady meanwhile in their heart they are full of envy, jealousy, stubborn to correction, they have no authority. What is the difference between the lady and them? Is it because hers is obvious? (You can direct this question to your self as well).
Judging people, criticizing people, condemning others is not a fruit of the spirit. It is Pride!!I know someone just said constructive criticism. Constructive criticism should be done in love. It is offered in a friendly manner with good intentions. It is centered around helping someone improve and not tearing them down. I will tell you what a lot of us do. A lot of us engage in destructive criticism. Are you trying to pass an opinion (a negative one) or prove a point that you are better off than the next person?
As children of God, it is important we are kind with our words and they way we communicate them to others. Nobody is perfect we are all progressive at the levels that we are and of course there is always room for improvement.
Culled by Eseosa