Understanding Judgement: Biblical Wisdom for Discernment and Accountability

Judgement is an inescapable part of human experience. Whether we are making daily decisions, evaluating the actions of others, or examining our own hearts, the process of forming opinions and assessments shapes our relationships and spiritual journey. This exploration examines what Scripture teaches about when to judge, when to refrain, and how to do so with wisdom, humility, and love.

The Nature of Human Judgement

Consciously or subconsciously, we are continuously forming opinions about events in both our lives and those of others. These mental appraisals vary from momentary, incidental thoughts through to lengthy evaluations requiring considerable input, exploring all the available information for major decisions with lasting consequences. The challenge lies in distinguishing between appropriate discernment and condemning judgement that Scripture warns against.

Human nature consistently elevates self to be the judge, speaking critically against those who hold different views or act in ways not in keeping with our standards. Yet the Bible and Jesus (the written and living Word) are to be the benchmark, with our main responsibility to address our own faults rather than point out those of others (Lk 6:41-42). This self-examination in the light of Bible truths and sensitivity to our conscience as we consider our sinfulness, is because we must answer to God for ourselves, not anyone else. Besides the Biblical values, we are to be governed by our convictions, for if we override them we sin (Ps 119:11,105; Prov 20:27; Rom 12:3, 14:1-15:3; 1 Cor 11:31).

We would be wise to judge ourselves, not others

It is beneficial to examine and reflect on each day's happenings, with the intention to bring change going forward – is there sin to confess; what did I do well that needs to be repeated; and what could I do better next time? Without this review, it is almost impossible to advance to a life of love and mutual edification as the same patterns of habit and reaction are unthinkingly repeated.

The Lord, who looks at the inner thoughts and intentions of the heart, said "Stop judging by appearances, and make right judgments, you judge after the flesh, but if I judge it is with the Father's true appraisal", or spiritual discernment (1 Sam 16:7; Jn 7:24, 8:15-16). Thus, we are not to make rash, unjust, condemning judgments based on gossip and prejudice without knowing the real facts, being witnesses to the events, or hearing both sides of the story, as this risks discrediting another's character (1 Sam 1:12-16; Prov 18:13,17, 19:5; Jn 7:51; Tit 3:2). God opposes the proud, and those quick to point out the sins and faults of others, for the self-righteous stance of criticism that tears others down can be a mask to hide their own character weakness by diverting attention away from themselves (Lk 18:9-14; 1 Cor 4:3-5; Jas 4:6,11-12). As not one of us is righteous in God's sight, be determined to "Stop passing judgment on one another" (Rom 3:10, 14:13).

Biblical Standards for Judgement

The Bible frequently gives specific instructions which must be strictly followed, while in other matters we have the freedom of personal preference and consequently a variety of different opinions and views are held. In these matters 'judgement calls' should still be governed by biblical principles, besides demonstrating love and doing right in the sight of all people, for Christian freedom is not liberty to sin (by doing as we want) but rather freedom from sin's control to be all God has made us to be. So, while love is to be paramount it must go hand in hand with truth, it is not to be a substitute for the truth, or an excuse to ignore and fail to address what is wrong, for God can only bless what is done according to His values (1 Cor 13:6).

While we don't know a person's motives or where they stand with God, we can observe the fruit of their actions which indicate the root or core values (Lk 6:43-45). This principle guides us toward evaluating actions rather than condemning individuals, recognising that God alone sees the heart and knows the complete picture of any situation.

Jesus said "Judge not, that you are not judged" and "He that is without sin, let him cast the first stone". In this context He was warning against negative, hypocritical, self-righteous judging, for if we engage in the same sin as we are condemning we will be judged likewise, "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you" with the priority being to get ourselves right before attempting to correct others (Mt 7:1-5; Jn 8:1-11; Rom 2:1,3).

Rather than judging actions, discern the underlying motives

It is appropriate and wise to assess what others declare as 'from the Lord', to ensure it does agree with the principles of Scripture and is not just the speaker's own ideas – "let others judge" and "test all things" (1 Cor 14:29; 1 Thes 5:19-21). Before partaking of communion, we are instructed to judge our hearts and put right any matters that need resolving otherwise being in an unfit spiritual condition we bring God's judgement on ourselves (1 Cor 11:28-32).

Christian Accountability and Restoration

When we see sinful behaviour in a fellow believer, with the Bible's truths being compromised, we are to speak truthfully, humbly and lovingly to them for "All Scripture is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness…be prepared, correct, rebuke, encourage" (Act 20:27; Gal 2:11-21; Eph 4:15; 2 Tim 3:16-17, 4:2). Inside the body of Christ sin is to be confronted and dealt with, with the aim to bring reconciliation with God and others (1 Cor 5:1-13). We are not to ignore sin as its influence can spread quickly, instead be motivated by love to be your 'brother's keeper' by challenging them about issues that are inconsistent with the Bible and so turn a sinner from the error of their ways (Mk 12:31; Jn 13:34; Gal 5:9; Jas 5:19-20; 1 Jn 5:16).

By expressing your concerns with a non-confrontational approach you will be less threatening. Ask 'Have you considered what the Bible teaches? Do you think that was the best course of action?' rather than making harsh, legalistic, condemning criticisms or pronouncing a hurtful verdict. While sin is to be confronted such actions must be balanced with compassion to correct and uplift, as well as humility for next time it might be us that has sinned (Gal 6:1).

Would I like to be corrected in the manner I correct others?

Help the offender see where and how they failed, and if appropriate assist them to remedy the situation and embrace a changed lifestyle for through repentance and forgiveness, relationship is restored with Jesus the source of truth (Jn 14:6). The Bible tells us to show mercy and treat people as we wish to be treated, so look for the good in them and give positive feedback, aware that if we don't show mercy (remembering Christ has shown us an immeasurable amount) we will be judged without mercy (Mt 5:7; Lk 6:31; Jas 2:12-13).

Restoration not punishment should be the focus as we distinguish between good and evil (Heb 5:14). This calls for evaluating the words and behaviour of others, not to find fault and condemn them but rather to effectively guard our hearts against sin and error (Prov 4:23; 1 Cor 2:14-15). With impartiality assess the offence, and not the offender, focusing only on the earthly aspect of the fault and not their relationship with God who sees their heart (Deut 1:16-17; Jas 2:1-9). Don't judge a person by what they currently are or appear to be, for in the hands of God their potential is unlimited.

We are not to judge a person for activities before they became Christians as the sin has been forgiven, although there are still consequences. However, doing wrong after salvation is disobedience against clearly defined commands or principles in Scripture, and has implications which include contaminating the body which is the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, choking of the spiritual life within or causing another to stumble in their spiritual walk (Mt 18:6; Rom 14:21; 1 Cor 6:19, 10:23,32). Thus, the Body of Christ is also maimed.

In matters of conscience, it is appropriate to observe respectfully without imposing one’s preferences, opinions, or cultural biases on others. Such personal perspectives should not be equated with scriptural standards, which remain uncompromisable. The enforcement of societal compliance belongs to judicial systems rather than religious institutions; it is not the church's role to adjudicate spiritual matters for those outside its community. Criticism from Christians regarding societal norms should accurately reflect divine character and requirements, and must not stem from personal pride or arbitrary opinions (Ex 2:14; Mt 9:4; Mk 2:6; Act 7:27).

Righteous judgment discerns truth with love; self-righteous judgment condemns with pride

Jesus stated His purpose was "not to judge the world but to save it" (Jn 12:47), while clarifying that ultimate judgment is determined by each individual's acceptance or rejection of salvation and their actions. Christ also taught, "Do not judge so that you will not be judged" (Mt 7:1), a principle reinforced by Paul: "Who are you to judge the servant of another?" (Rom 14:4). These passages have often formed the basis for a prevailing norm within Christian conduct discouraging personal judgment of others.

Conversely, Scripture includes passages that call for discernment. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs listeners to "Beware of false prophets…you will know them by their fruits" (Mt 7:15-16), and later commands, "Judge with righteous judgment" (Jn 7:24). John further exhorts believers to "Test the spirits to see whether they are from God... By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error" (1 Jn 4:1,6). Comprehensive understanding of biblical instruction on judgment requires systematic examination of all relevant texts.

The narrative of the woman accused of adultery illustrates these principles vividly. When brought before Jesus by individuals seeking to challenge Him, He refrained from condemning her and instead questioned her accusers, stating, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone" (Jn 8:7). Her accusers departed, acknowledging their inability to judge. Although possessing both the authority and the right to judge, Jesus responded, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more" (Jn 8:11). This episode underscores the priority of restoration over condemnation within the Christian ethos, as Jesus extended her an opportunity for renewal and transformation.

Reflection and Application:

Examine your own heart and motivations before addressing the faults of others, remembering Jesus' teaching about the plank and speck.
Approach correction with humility and love, seeking restoration rather than condemnation.
Distinguish between biblical commands and personal preferences, not imposing your convictions on matters of conscience.
Trust God as the ultimate judge while faithfully exercising discernment grounded in Scripture.