“Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults — unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It’s easy to see a smudge on your neighbor’s face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, ‘Let me wash your face for you,’ when your own face is distorted by contempt? It’s this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.”

• Matthew 7:1-5 (MSG)

This passage from Matthew is often called out both by Christians and non-Christians when it comes to modern, contemporary Christian behavior. People frequently cry foul that Christians are hypocritical and judge others when these words from Jesus make it clear they should not. And often, they are right to point this out. However, it is also important for us to understand what the difference is between recognizing sin and being judgmental in the way Jesus described in Matthew 7.

Judging versus being judgmental

Reconciling judgment is difficult because judgment is inescapable. In a community with a purpose that follows the teachings of God and has expectations of people, it is hard not to have room for any passing of judgment. However, this form of judgment may look different than you might think.

Within the church, a body of people may make a hard decision to call someone out on a behavior that is harmful to themselves or others. What happens next is what separates judging from being judgmental.

A church that is judgmental will call this person out and then outcast them if they don’t change their ways according to how the church sees fit. This type of judgment is exactly what drives people away from the church.

However, a church that is not judgmental but is willing to pass judgments is one that loves and supports the individual. These decisions are done with kindness, compassion and patience. They invite a discourse. The other person has room to speak, disagree or challenge the decision. 

There is support. The person has a community they can lean on for guidance or support through whatever challenge they are facing. 

You see the difference, right? In one scenario, the church says, “What you do is wrong, and we’re better than that, so leave us.” In the other scenario, the church says, “What you are doing is bad for yourself or for other people. We want to help you work on that to become a healthier person and so we can all grow in the process together.”

That second part sounds pretty good, right? We think so too. So, it’s OK to have room for passing judgment. We just can’t have room for being judgmental.

Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey

At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. Do you want to grow in your faith, or are you simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.