AfterThoughts: June 16, 2019

June 16, 2019

Before You Judge

Yesterday, Pastor David continued the Sermon on the Mount Series, teaching on the subject of judging. He encouraged us to recognize that we are not the ultimate judge (v. 1-2) and that we are not perfect (v. 3-5) when it comes to making judgements about other people. Please reread the verses below and process the questions as you listen to God’s Spirit.

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Do not give dogs what is holy, ad do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” (Matthew 7:1-6)

Have you ever found yourself on the receiving end of unmerited judgement? How did that affect you?

Pastor David explained that we can be morally discerning without being judgemental. He encouraged us to admit our own shortcomings and to be willing to look at the deeper spiritual issues in our own lives when it comes to “judgementalism.”

“Judgementalism is a sinfully critical spirit, a condemning attitude.” (D.A. Carson)

During moments of judgmentalism, how can you discipline yourself to remember Jesus’ great gift of forgiveness to you? How might that posture affect your attitude towards other people?
How has stepping into the role of judge affected your relationship with Jesus?
What are the deep issues in your life that come to the surface as judgementalism? What are the specific areas of sinfulness that you need to deal with?

Watch this week’s sermon at www.dawsonchurch.org/SOTM