Jesus opens Matthew 7 with a message that is both deeply convicting and frequently misunderstood. In this passage, Jesus teaches on judging others, delivering profound insights that challenge our perspectives.
“Do not judge,” He says—but He doesn’t stop there. He explains the how and the why behind that statement. This is not a call to silence truth—it’s a call to examine our motives and methods.
Let’s explore what it means when Jesus teaches on judging others—and how we can apply this with humility in 2025.
Who Is Jesus Speaking To?
Still speaking to His disciples and the broader crowd, Jesus is now addressing how believers interact with each other. These verses are especially relevant for people of faith who are trying to navigate truth, accountability, and grace in real-time relationships.
What Jesus Said: Matthew 7:1–6 (NASB)
1 “Do not judge, so that you will not be judged. 2 For by the judgment you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when behold, the log is in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye. 6 Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
“Do Not Judge” — What It Doesn’t Mean
Jesus isn’t saying don’t discern right from wrong. He’s saying:
Don’t condemn others while ignoring your own sin.
This passage doesn’t cancel correction—it condemns hypocrisy.
Action Step: Before confronting someone else, ask God: “Is there anything in me that needs correction first?”
Logs and Specks: What Jesus Is Showing Us
“Why do you look at the speck… but not notice the log…”
Jesus uses this word picture to reveal our natural tendency:
- We minimize our sins and magnify others’ mistakes.
- We want to do surgery on someone else’s soul while ignoring our own plank.
Jesus says:
“Start with yourself. Then you can actually help others.”
Action Step: Write down a recent situation where you criticized someone. Then ask: “Did I show them the same grace I need?”
First Remove the Plank…
Jesus doesn’t say ignore the speck.
He says: Deal with your plank first, then you’ll have the clarity and humility to help others in love.
Action Step: Repent before you rebuke. Clean your heart before correcting anyone else’s.
Don’t Throw Pearls to Pigs?
This might seem harsh—until we realize Jesus is saying:
Use discernment.
Not everyone is ready to receive spiritual truth. If someone mocks or tramples what is holy, sometimes the wisest thing you can do is pull back and pray instead of pushing.
Action Step: If someone continues to reject the truth, commit to praying for them rather than forcing a conversation.
Mood of the Scene
Convicting, clarifying, and freeing.
Jesus isn’t being soft—He’s being surgical.
He’s cutting through spiritual pride and restoring relational wisdom.
Response from the People
Many in the crowd had experienced harsh judgment from religious leaders. Others may have been guilty of giving it.
Jesus’ teaching was both humbling and healing—a new way to walk in truth and grace at the same time.
What This Means for Us in 2025
Today’s culture:
- Is quick to judge but slow to listen.
- Critiques online but ignores private flaws.
- Exposes specks but hides logs.
But Jesus still calls us:
To self-examination before confrontation.
To grace before correction.
To discernment before disclosure.
Practical Applications:
- Ask God daily to reveal “logs” in your heart.
- Refuse to gossip—especially about someone else’s sin.
- Offer feedback only after you’ve prayed first.
- Discern whether someone is genuinely open to correction—or simply combative.
- When you do speak truth, bathe it in compassion.
Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach me to walk in truth without arrogance. Remove the plank from my own eye so I can see clearly to help others. Give me a humble heart and wise words. Let me reflect Your grace, even when I confront sin. In all things, let love lead. Amen.
