Judging
Judging OthersJudging why people are the way they are is a
dangerous business.Excerpts from Take a Closer Look, by Tom Norvell
on February 21, 2010
By mere appearances, one might make an assumption about a couple
that is far from accurate. There's something about them that might
cause one to conclude that their relationship has been brief and
riddled with trouble and strife and dysfunction. On closer
examination one learns that they have been happy together in one
form or another for decades. The smiles they exchange reveal that
they continue to be deeply in lovewith each other. By mere
appearances one might draw the conclusion from the multiple tattoos
and body piercings on the young man's body would indicate that he
delves into the world of darkness, isolation and perhaps even
demonology. On closer examination one would learn that he is a
devoted follower of Jesus and that he is one of the key leaders in
the youth group of your church.
By mere appearances, one might incorrectly judge that the
expensive suits, high-powered and high-priced car, and a
well-manicured lawn at his house, in a gated community would
indicate selfishness, snobbery, and pride. On closer examination
one discovers that he gives a significant portion of his income to
his church, and teaches a Bible Study Class.
By mere appearances, one might assume that the man sitting down
the pew from you on Sunday is coming primarily out of a sense of
duty and wants very little to do with the church. On closer
examination, it is discovered he was formerly a lay leader in your
church for many years, but is now caring for a wife who suffers
from Alzheimer's and has very little time to devote to church.
In the Gospel of John we read the story of a woman caught in
adultery (Jn. 8:1-11).She has been brought to Jesus so that He
might judge her but He doesnt nor does he allow the scribes or
Pharisees to judge or punish her.The preceding four stories give
evidence as to why judging others leads to errors, misperceptions
and gossip.What are the reasons behind the womans participation
in adultery?The Gospel doesnt tell us so they remain unknown to
us but not to God.Remember the story of Jacobs 11th son Joseph who
was sold into slavery by his brothers?He was falsely accused of
attempted rape by the prominent and influential wife of the captain
of Pharaohs guard.All were certain of his guilt but God knew he
wasnt guilty.
I am reminded of Marys pregnancy before her marriage to Joseph,
imagine the talk around the water well in Nazareth?Imagine how she
was judged by the local villagers.Do you suppose they called her a
harlot, or a prostitute.Do you suppose they thought she would go to
heaven or hell?Do you suppose they thought that she would give
birth to the Messiah?
After Mary, Joseph and Jesus returned to Nazareth did the locals
welcome him as the Messiah or the son of a local carpenter (Mk.
6:3).Lk. 6:37 Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not,
and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;
Yes, judging others is a dangerous business.Only God can look into
and have a perfect view of the human heart and intentions.
