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Using Righteous Judgment
Sermon by Kim MyersAs God's firstfruits, we must be cautious in our judgments, ensuring they are rooted in love and guided by the Word of God. In Matthew 7:1-2, we are warned against being judgmental, which differs from discerning right from wrong. Being judgmental involves condemning others or assuming superiority, akin to a court judge passing a sentence, rather than making a neutral call like a referee based on the rule book of Scripture. We are called to judge situations, our government, each other, and especially ourselves, but this must be done righteously and not based on personal feelings or political correctness. When considering the concept of a speck in the eye, we must first examine our own faults before pointing out those of others. This principle reminds us to approach judgment with humility, focusing on self-correction before addressing the errors of our brethren. Our primary responsibility is to judge ourselves, ensuring we align with God's laws, and to repent when He reveals our shortcomings. Only with an attitude of humility can we then judge others correctly, speaking the truth in love without causing a brother to stumble. We must avoid hypocritical, harsh, or self-righteous judgment, as these are forms of judgmental behavior that God condemns. Instead, our judgments should reflect outgoing concern, aiming to help and support others through prayer and adherence to God's commandments. As we navigate these crazy times, let us prioritize judging ourselves, making necessary changes in our lives, and drawing closer to God, ensuring our actions set a godly example for others.
Specks as Mirrors
'Ready Answer' by David F. MaasOur ability to see the specks in others' eyes may indicate spiritual deficiencies in ourselves, as we project our own sins onto others.
Dealing With a Sinning Brother
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughDisfellowshiping is only used for the most extreme cases in which the safety of the congregation is threatened. Lesser offenses require more sensitivity.
Objects In Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear
Sermonette by David F. MaasWhen we see faults in others, we must examine our own spiritual progress, looking for parallel things in ourselves that grieve God's Holy Spirit.
Do Not Judge: What Does it Mean?
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaThe caution not to judge is more accurately rendered, 'do not condemn' rather than to evaluate according to their fruits. We risk condemning ourselves.
Judgment, Tolerance, and Correction
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughA common mantra, even among Christians, is 'You shouldn't judge.' Is this a right concept? Here is the problem, and how righteous judgment should be done.
Do Not Judge
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWhile we do not have the prerogative of condemning and passing judgment, we do have the responsibility of observing behaviors or inspecting spiritual fruit.
Five Major Problems of the Pilgrimage
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLearning to judge is one of the most important qualities of a leader. Consequently, Christ warned that intemperance in judging will act as a boomerang.
Infected?
Sermonette by Bill OnisickJesus warned His disciples to cease pretending to be better than they are, focusing on the faults of others while whitewashing and justifying one's own.
Judging in the Church
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Human nature is strongly competitive and full of pride, making judgment inherently problematic. Nevertheless, God wants us to learn to judge with equity.
Elements of Judgment (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We need to learn to judge in a godly manner, putting merciful restraints on our tendency to condemn or jump to conclusions. One size does not fit all.
Forms vs. Spirituality (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSins committed presumptuously by people of high responsibility (leaders) are judged more rigorously than those sins committed by people in ignorance.
As Much as Depends on You
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThough we are sometimes confronted with conflict, we have a duty to make peace through exercising love. Unity and peace are fruits of God's Spirit.
Our Closest Neighbors
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe cannot have peace on a grand scale until we make peace with those closest to us. Without loving our brother, it is impossible to take on God's image.