Bible Reading: Matthew 7
Matthew 7:5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.
Hypocrites give to the poor so that men can see them do it. They fast and pray in such a way that people can see them. Jesus says that they receive no reward from our heavenly Father. Hypocrites want for people to think they are pious and spiritual. Hypocrites also point out the flaws and sins in other people’s lives and never deal with their own. Jesus here is teaching us that hypocrites are critics who judge others with a different standard than the one they use for themselves.
Have you ever caught yourself doing that? You observe someone and think to yourself, “What that person is doing is no right,” only to find yourself doing something similar or worse? Jesus says that before we can help someone else with their sin, we must first take a close look at our own life. We cannot see clearly until we realize that we are not perfect but are sinful like the person we want to help. We must also use the same standard for others that we want for ourselves.
Matthew 7:1-2 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.
It is a tendency of fallen man to want mercy for self and be harsh on others. Think of it like this: if you were caught in a crime would you want mercy from the judge? Now what if someone did the same thing to you; would you want the judge to be harsh with his treatment of them? If we want graceful and merciful treatment, we must treat others with grace and mercy.
Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Treat others as you would have them treat you. Hold yourself to the same standard you want others to meet. Jesus is telling us that this is kingdom living. This is how people who are redeemed by the blood of Jesus live. Do try to help others – just make sure not to be a judgmental hypocrite! Instead be a discerning, prayerful, redeemed brother or sister who examines their own life and treats others with equity and love.
In Christ,
Rody
