Cgnotes 220424

CG Lesson #7: Matthew 7:1
I. WELCOME
Question: When you meet someone for the very first time, what is one thing that gives
you a good first impression, and what is one thing that gives you a bad first impression?
II. WORSHIP
Choose one or two songs of thanksgiving.
III. WORD
This topic of judging others has been one that is particularly sensitive, both in the church
and in the world. The world’s values today will tell you that everyone is entitled to their
own opinion and that no one has the right to tell another person they are wrong.
It’s interesting that this worldview has also become quite influential in the church, and the
verse we’re looking at today is the key verse that Christians use to justify it. However, as
we have heard from Pr Sean McDowell, we need to be clear about the context of Jesus’
command to not judge others, which will allow us to apply it more faithfully in our lives.
The Bible’s command to not judge others does not mean we cannot show discernment. In
fact, almost immediately after Jesus says, “Do not judge”, He goes on to say “Do not give
dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs” (Matthew 7:6). Then slightly later,
He warns “Watch out for false prophets…By their fruit, you will recognise them (v. 15-16).
All these require sound judgement on our part to tell right from wrong.
At the same time, the Bible’s command not to judge does not take away from the absolute
truth of God. The world says all truth and morality is relative, but God is very clear that He
has a standard of what is good and bad, and what is right and wrong. As believers, we are
to be able to pass judgement and wisdom on what is sin, what is false and what is foolish.
Discussion Question 1: In your current situations, what are some common ways that you
pass judgement on people? (Eg a manager over an employee, a mother over a child, etc.)
So when Matthew 7:1 says not to judge, what kind of judgement should believers avoid?
1. Superficial judgement: Passing judgement on someone based solely on appearances

is wrong (John 7:24). You can see this happening when Simon the Pharisee passed
judgement on a woman based on her appearance and reputation, and could not see
that the woman had been forgiven (Luke 7:36-50).
2. Hypocritical judgement: The verses around Matthew 7:1 contain comparisons to
hypocrites, and a stern warning against hypocrisy. When we point out the sin of others
while we ourselves commit the same sin, we condemn ourselves (Roman 2:1).
3. Harsh, unforgiving judgement: We are instructed to always be gentle towards
everyone (Titus 3:2), and to show mercy to others (Matthew 5:7). In Matthew 7:2,
Jesus warns that the measure you use to judge others will be measured unto you.
4. Self-righteous judgement: We are called to humility, as God opposes the proud
(James 4:6). When Jesus compared the tax collector and the Pharisee, the Pharisee’s
pride and self-righteousness prevented him from receiving God’s forgiveness.
Discussion Question 2: Which of these four types of judging others do you find that you
sometimes fall into? Why do you think this is?
Christians are often accused of judging and intolerance when they speak out against sin.
However, opposing sin is not wrong because standing up for God’s values and
righteousness in the right way, is standing up for God. John the Baptist was beheaded for
speaking out against the adultery of Herodias with Herod.
Therefore, although believers are warned against judging others hypocritically, unfairly or
unrighteously, Jesus commends “right judgement” (John 7:24). We are to be discerning
and bold to preach the whole Gospel, including what the Bible says about sin.
Discussion Question 3: As a believer, how do you find the right balance between not
judging another person in the wrong way, and yet standing up for what is true and right?
IV. WORKS
Application for today: Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world,
but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and
approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Even in the matter of judging others, may we discern God’s will and not be led by the
undercurrent of the world. The world tells us that truth and morality is relative, but
Christians must follow a different value system.
Let us pray together today that God will give us the wisdom to differentiate right and
wrong, and the faithfulness to judge in a way that is biblical, and to avoid sinful judgement.
Announcements:
• Church Info Update: Please ensure all your CG members have filled out:
https://gladtidingspj.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2220849.
• Worship Encounter: Experience powerful worship nights on the 24th & 25th of
April. As a CG, choose one night to attend together!
• Lead Night: For ZL/CL/ACL, RSVP by 16 April at the following link:
https://gladtidingspj.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2249555.

Cgnotes 220424

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Cgnotes 220424

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Cgnotes 220424

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CG Lesson #7: Matthew 7:1

1. Superficial judgement: Passing judgement on someone based solely on appearances

You might also like