Seeing Clearly: Righteous Judgment in a World of Appearances (John 7:24)
Scripture Reading: John 7:24
Introduction:
In a world where appearances often deceive, Jesus calls us to a higher standard of judgment. He doesn't condemn all judgment, but rather unrighteous judgment, a judgment clouded by hypocrisy, self-righteousness, and a lack of mercy. Today, we will explore the distinction between unrighteous and righteous judgment, learning how to see clearly and judge with a heart that reflects God's own.
I. Does John 7:24 Contradict or Support Matthew 7?
Jesus' words in John 7:24 do not contradict Matthew 7. Both passages address the issue of judgment, but from different angles.
Matthew 7 warns against hypocritical judgment, while John 7:24 calls for righteous judgment based on truth, not mere appearances.
Jesus is not condemning all forms of judgement, he is condemning unrighteous judgement.
II. What Is Unrighteous Judgment?
A. Judging Blindly (Matthew 7:3-5):
"Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?"
Unrighteous judgment involves focusing on the faults of others while ignoring our own, larger flaws.
B. Hypocritical, Self-Righteous Judgment (Romans 2:1-3):
"Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things."
It is hypocritical to condemn others for sins we ourselves commit.
C. Not Recognizing Our Own Faults (Galatians 6:1-3):
"Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted."
We must first examine our own hearts before attempting to correct others.
We must look inward as we make judgements of others.
D. Judging Without Mercy/Love (James 2:12-13; 1 Corinthians 16:14):
"For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment."
Unrighteous judgment is characterized by harshness and condemnation, lacking the compassion and grace that God extends to us.
We are not seeking to condemn, but to bring about repentance.
"Let all that you do be done in love."
E. Judging by Appearances (Proverbs 16:25):
"There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death."
Unrighteous judgment relies on superficial observations, rather than seeking the truth.
The phrase "Behold, I thought" is the downfall of mankind.
III. What Is Righteous Judgment?
A. Judging With Eyes Wide Open (Luke 18:9-14):
We must approach judgment with humility, recognizing our own need for God's mercy.
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector illustrates the importance of a humble, contrite heart.
We need to first have the attitude of the publican.
We must correct our own faults, this does not require a sinless life, but a life of repentance.
B. Judging With an Attitude of Mercy and Hope for Repentance (Ephesians 4:15; James 5:19-20; 2 Timothy 2:24-26):
"But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ." (Ephesians 4:15)
Righteous judgment is motivated by love and a desire for restoration, not condemnation.
We must have gentleness when correcting those who are in opposition.
We must judge with an attitude of mercy, and a hope for repentance.
C. Judging by God's Standard (1 Thessalonians 5:21; Hebrews 5:12-14):
"But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
Righteous judgment is based on God's Word, requiring careful discernment and training.
We must train our senses to discern good and evil.
Scripture shows us right and wrong, and it is our job to learn and teach it.
We too will be judged by God’s standard.
D. Leaving Judgment of the Heart to God:
We must remember that only God can truly know the heart. Therefore, we must leave the final judgement to Him.
- Preaching on Wrong is Always Wrong
- Preaching on Tares and the Wheat Matthew 13:25-43
- Preaching on Cain and Abel: Conflict of Worship (Genesis 4:1-8)
Conclusion:
Let us strive to judge righteously, with humility, mercy, and a commitment to God's truth. Let us examine our own hearts, seeking to remove the "log" before addressing the "speck" in another's eye. And let us remember that true judgment is not about condemnation, but about restoration and love. May God grant us the wisdom and discernment to judge as He does, with righteousness and grace. Amen.
