DO NOT JUDGE, BUT STRENGTHEN (4)

A call for tolerance, mutual respect and edification

We have come a long way in this 4-series teaching on judging others. With our principal text taken from Romans 14, we have shared insights on the issue of criticising and judging other people's lives. This is with respect to doctrinal variations with the Christian faith, and by extension, our recommended treatment of others outside the faith.

In the last three editions, we have identified and discussed a number of issues as the Apostle Paul addressed to the church. This include judgement on choice of meal and Sabbath (the day of worship). In today's edition, (which is the last for the series), we shall summarize on the recommendations made by Paul in this letter. Enjoy the read.

The Letter: Romans 14

a. "Accept among you the man/woman who is weak in faith, but do not argue with him about his personal opinion. (v.1) One man thinks that all days are the same. Each one should be fully persuaded in his mind.

(v.5) The man who will eat anything is not to despise the man who doesn't, while the one who eats only vegetables is not to pass judgement on the one who eats anything, for God has accepted him." (v3)

b. "So then, let us stop judging one another. Instead, this is what you should decide, not to do anything that will make your brother stumble or fall into sin." (Romans 14:13)

Mutual Respect

Paul in this letter recommends that everyone within the Christian faith regard one another, irrespective of their personal belief or practices. Precisely, he mentioned that we should not despise people because of what they eat, drink or how they respond to certain days of worship.Paul does not approve their behavior either, but he reminds us that we cannot win them over by judging their attitude outrightly. Rather, he recommends that we respect the personal opinions of others on certain doctrinal issues.

Has Thou Faith?

In our bid to demonstrate our faith and strength in God's word, Paul admits that there is a strong temptation to react rudely at the sight of scriptural compromise. So he says in verse 22 'Has this faith? Then have it to thyself before God'. The Expositor's Bible Commentary explains that instead of flaring up in anger (at the sight of compromise), we should demonstrate our faith by showing 'reference for another's conscience, even when the conscience went astray for want of better light'.

Personal Judgement: is it Necessary?

Paul makes it clear that individuals don't decide what is good on their own. Put differently, the scripture informs us of what is right or wrong in God's perspective. The days of the law were run on this, with severe punishment for transgressions. Man could not meet up with these regulations.

Man's insufficiency necessitated the coming of Jesus. His coming gave us freedom (not to continue in sin but) to grow gradually into the fullness of God. The EBC warns that the assertion of personal judgement is 'not often necessary, lest... it should be exaggerated into a dangerous mistake'.

Do Not Judge; Tolerate, Love, Edify

This article is not addressed to those struggling with the habits discussed (being absent from church services, smoking, drinking and ungodly living), but to Believers who stay with or witness others in these habits. The Biblical advice is 'do not judge', rather –love, correct in love, pray for the person and encourage the person.

He smokes, and drinks; he doesn't attend church services, yet he/she is a Christian. Do not cast judgement. Do not condemn him. Don't say 'He'll just go to hell'. The scripture says God has already accepted him! So instead of judging, love. May God give us the grace, in Jesus name. Amen.

Thank you for following up till last edition. Trust you were blessed.

God bless you. 🙏

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