Should Christians judge others?

Yes, Christians are called to judge righteously, not hypocritically or self-righteously. The Bible does not forbid all forms of judgment, but it condemns unjust, hypocritical, and unloving judgment.

Jesus did say:

“Judge not, that you be not judged.” (Matthew 7:1)

But He continued:

“For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged… And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?” (Matthew 7:2–3)

This passage warns against judging others while ignoring one’s own sin. It does not forbid discernment. In fact, Jesus said:

“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” (John 7:24)

Christians are commanded to evaluate doctrine, conduct, and spiritual fruit:

“Beware of false prophets… You will know them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:15–16)

Paul rebuked the Corinthian church for failing to judge sin within the church:

“Do you not judge those who are inside? But those who are outside God judges. Therefore put away from yourselves the evil person.” (1 Corinthians 5:12–13)

Judgment within the body of Christ is necessary for maintaining purity and accountability. But it must be done with humility, love, and a desire for restoration:

“Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness.” (Galatians 6:1)

Christians are never to act as final judges over a person’s soul, that belongs to God alone. But we are to exercise spiritual discernment in matters of truth, sin, and righteousness.

“He who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one.” (1 Corinthians 2:15)

To judge rightly is to align our assessments with God’s Word, in humility and truth, for the good of others and the glory of God.

 

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