Wednesday 11th September
Read Matthew 7:1-2
“‘Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way as you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (NIVUK)
It is interesting to consider how James, Jesus’ brother, reflected on the words in this sermon. Writing to those who follow Jesus he too warns them against ‘favouritism’, or making judgments between people. He warns them that they will be judged by the law, a law of love, a royal law.
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself,’ you are doing right. 9 But if you show favouritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as law-breakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 11 For he who said, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ also said, ‘You shall not murder.’ If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a law-breaker.” (James 2:8-11) (NIVUK).
It is the inverse of Jesus’ words in a sense. James points out that they will be judged by the standards they have failed to keep. Small failures in just one area will count as complete failure in the face of a just and holy God. Which is what makes James’ next words all the more interesting as an application of Jesus’ sermon.
“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:12-13) (NIVUK)
The logical consequence of understanding what Jesus is warning His followers about, a judgmental attitude, is to avoid it all costs. James goes one step further and expands on Jesus’ thoughts. If there is a choice to be made about what attitude one should adopt, instead of judgment, then choose mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment in every way. It is some the best, and most comforting, advice one can find. There is rest and grace and mercy in the words of Jesus.
