Judging???

In a discussion in a longtime Thursday morning men's group, centered in our faith in Jesus Christ seeking the answers to how shall we live through the understanding that "the bible alone is the word of God," judgment was brought up.

As is the case with the question of judgment, Jesus' words " Do not judge or you to will be judged" (Matt. 7:1 and Luke 6:37) are quoted and become absolute without the context. * Look at John 7:24 with Jesus saying "Judge with a righteous judgment." What's up with that?

Context! Jesus is saying not judge with differing measures. In other words it is not good to say, "do as I say, not as I do." Take a look at James 2:1-13 as judging with favoritism.

The Bible in the Old Testament has set forth a principle "that the standard of judgment must be distributed equally and used without favoritism."*

Look at Lev. 19:35, Num. 15:16, Deut. 16:18, Deut. 25:13

"Jesus opposes the way in which some people judge not judgment itself."

What standard will we use in making judgments?

* Quotes and thoughts in this post are from Gary Demar's book "Myths, Lies, & Half Truths," (Chap. 4) a recommended reading.

Forgiveness

We have just finished the weekend that remembers the Passion of Jesus and His resurection. After listening to sermons this last weekend I have been struck with Jesus' exppressions of forgiveness. In the Gospel of Luke chapter 22:34 Jesus says, from the cross after the Romans had cast lots for his garments and had mocked him, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do."

It seems to me that with this prayer to His Father, Jesus has, with His actions, already expressed forgiveness and that the Father will forgive them. This is grace and a gift paid by the blood of Christ on the cross. Gifts given are to be received. There seems to be no condition except Jesus going to His death on the cross.

What can I take from this expression of the ultimate love? For me to forgive those who mock me, say all manner of evil and lies about me, physically harm me and "offend me," I am to die to my own nature and forgive with grace. (Romans. 12:2)

Welcome to Winds of Reconciliation

This is a new blog that I will be writing for the encouragement of believers in Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ, to be unified under His leading through the Holy Spirit. Come back for more posts.