“Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?” (Matthew 7:1-4) KJV.

It is injurious to judge others, and more depressing without knowing the whole story behind their struggle.

The Aims Of This Discussion Are:

• To understand Jesus’ teaching on the meaning of “Judge not” and to distinguish between hypocritical judgment and godly discernment.

• To encourage self-examination before correcting others and to promote mercy, humility and love in Christian relationships.

• To identify biblical principles for correcting others wisely and apply Christ-like attitudes in daily interactions with others.
A Short Story: The Silent Wound

Ejiro was known in her community as a devoted wife and mother. At church gatherings and social events, she smiled warmly beside her husband, carefully presenting what appeared to be a peaceful and loving marriage. Few people knew that behind closed doors, Ejiro endured constant emotional and occasional physical abuse. For the sake of her children and her reputation, she chose silence and painted a picture of perfection.

One afternoon at a public occasion, her husband spoke harshly to her in front of others. This time, instead of responding with her usual smile, Ejiro gave him a cold shoulder and walked away quietly. The atmosphere changed instantly. Whispers filled the room. Some women shook their heads. A few men muttered that she was disrespectful. Without knowing her hidden pain, people judged, blamed, and condemned her actions. No one paused to ask what she might be going through. No one examined the “log” in their own eyes before pointing out the “speck” they thought they saw in hers.

The command “Judge not” is one of Jesus’ most familiar teachings, yet many people misunderstand its true meaning. In gospel of Matthew 7:1-6, Our Lord Jesus Christ is not forbidding believers from making moral decisions or practicing discernment; rather, He warns against hypocritical, harsh and self-righteous judgment. Through the example of the speck and the log, Jesus teaches that self-examination must come before correcting others.

Believers are called to recognise their own weaknesses, approach others with humility, and avoid condemning attitudes. This teaching promotes mercy, honesty, and spiritual maturity, reminding Christians that God alone is the ultimate judge. At the same time, Jesus encourages wise discernment so that truth is upheld with love and compassion.

When believers balance grace with truth, they build healthier relationships, foster restoration instead of criticism, and reflect God’s character through patience, kindness and genuine concern for others’ spiritual growth and well-being. Our study guide will expatiate more on this valuable points.

The Venerable Stephen Wolemonwu is the Rector,Ibru Ecumenical Centre, Agbarha-Otor, Delta State (08035413812)