Understanding Judgmentalness in the Context of Christian Ministry

Societal changes and the digital age have brought about numerous challenges that impact our mental and emotional well-being. Among these challenges, many Christians face the struggle of judging and criticizing others, often experiencing the same hatred and persecution that Jesus faced from his unbelieving brothers. This article delves into 1 Corinthians 13 and several key verses from the Bible to find solace and guidance in overcoming judgmentalness.

The Impact of Judgmentalness

Jesus himself warned about the consequences of judgmentalness, stating, "The world cannot hate you but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil." (John 7:7).

Paul further emphasizes the difficulty of living a godly life amidst such a hostile environment: "In fact everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted; while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." (2 Timothy 3:12-13).

The Power of Love

Love is the ultimate remedy for judgmentalness, as described in 1 Corinthians 13. This passage highlights that love exceeds all other forms of human possessions and abilities. It offers an unyielding foundation for living a godly life:

“For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

Love is patient and kind, envies no one, and does not boast or parade its virtues. It is not self-seeking or easily provoked, and it does not keep a record of wrongs. Love delights in the truth, protects and trusts those around without hesitation. Love never fails.

Practical Applications in the Bible

Matthew 7:1-6 and Luke 6:37 also provide practical advice on handling judgmentalness. These verses encourage self-reflection and fairness:

"For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and with the measure you give, it will be measured to you." (Matthew 7:2)

"Stop judging, and you will not be judged. Stop criticizing, and you will not be criticized. For you will be treated the same way you treat others, and you will be given the same measure you give to others." (Luke 6:37)

Revelation on setting each other free from judgment is crucial. Christians can learn from 2 Corinthians 5:10 and Matthew 25:31-46 on the role of judgment, which is to be left in the hands of God:

"Do not give what is holy to the dogs. Do not throw your pearls before swine that they do not trample them. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well." (Matthew 7:6)

Christians should share faith without causing others to stumble. As Paul writes, “I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom, that you convey these instructions.” (2 Timothy 4:1-5)

Conclusion

By acknowledging our own faults and striving to forgive ourselves and others, we can transition from judgmentalness to love. Remember, God will be the judge, and his judgment is always just and fair.embracing love and forgiveness not only improves our relationship with God but also with those around us.