What does the Bible say about judging others?

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Question: What does the Bible say about judging others?

Answer:

The Bible contains several passages regarding judging others, with some appearing to caution against it while others suggest there are appropriate ways to judge. Here’s a concise overview:

1. Matthew 7:1-2 warns against judging others, stating “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.”
2. However, John 7:24 advocates for righteous judgment: “Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.”
3. 1 Corinthians 5:12-13 suggests judging those within the church community, but not those outside it.
4. James 4:12 reminds readers that only God is the ultimate judge.
5. Romans 2:1-3 cautions against hypocrisy in judgment.

The overall message seems to be that while hasty or hypocritical judgment is discouraged, discernment and “right judgment” based on God’s standards are sometimes necessary.