We Do Not Have the Right or Power to Pass Sentence on Anyone Ahead of Time
“The word of God is the best rule by which to judge concerning men” (Matthew Henry Commentary). However, quite often we fail to notice the beam in our eyes regarding our own judgmental behavior (Matthew 7:3), i.e., to look to ourselves introspectively. God is the judge of all of our affairs (Revelation 2:18-23). We must acknowledge this even when we think our judgment is right concerning another person, especially when we judge a person ahead of time without getting to know that person. The Lord is the one who “will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives,” and “will give to each one whatever praise is due” (1 Corinthians 4:5 NLT).
2 Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. 3 As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. 4 My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide. 5 So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time — before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due. 1 Corinthians 4:2-5 NLT (New Living Translation)
Brenda A. McGee has attended New York Theological Seminary in New York, NY, and Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA as a Master of Divinity student.