True Judgment Comes From God
It
is essential that the one who is judging look to God’s judgments and laws as
the absolute basis for rendering decisions. Looking to circumstances
and outward appearances are, of and by themselves, not enough.
When he was sent to select David as the King to replace Saul, God told
Samuel not to look on the outward appearance. “And it came to pass, when
they were come, that he [Samuel] looked on Eliab, and said, ‘Surely the
Lord’s anointed is before Him.’ ” First impressions, based on feelings and
outward appearances, are usually not correct.
“But the Lord said unto Samuel, ‘Look not on his countenance, or on the
height of his stature; because I have refused him; for the Lord sees not as
a man sees, for a man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on
the heart’ ” (I Sam. 16:6-7). God was looking on David’s heart—not on the
outward appearance of the flesh.
Christ revealed that this was a particular fault of the Pharisees, who
judged according to outward appearances or “according to the flesh” (John
8:15)—the very opposite of what they should have done. He went on to explain
that He never judged a matter or person after the flesh. “I judge no one.
Yet if I do judge, My judgment is true, for I am not alone [in my judgment];
but I and the Father Who sent me [are one]” (verses 15-16). Christ further
emphasized, “Judge not according to appearance, but judge righteous
judgment” (John 7:24).
God’s living Word is the foundation for making sound judgments. Apart
from God’s Word, one renders carnal, human judgments based on outward
appearances and circumstances. Notice: “For
the Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any
two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of both soul and
spirit, and of both the joints and the marrow, and
is able to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart.
And there is not a created thing that is not manifest in His sight; but all
things are naked and laid bare before the eyes of Him to Whom we must
give account” (Heb. 4:12-13).
It
is only from God’s Word that we receive the knowledge, wisdom and
understanding needed to make righteous judgments. We will be confronted at
times with situations that are not clearly defined in God’s Word. But, with
the Spirit of God—combined with the knowledge, wisdom and understanding
which God’s Word gives—we can make righteous judgments.
Solomon is a good example. When he was made king, he perceived that he
needed wisdom and judgment from God in order to rightly govern and
judge the people of Israel. God appeared to Solomon in a dream and said,
“Ask what I shall give you.” Solomon replied, “ ‘And now O Lord my God, you
have made your servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a
little child: I know not how to go out or come in. And your servant is in
the midst of your people which you have chosen, a great people, that cannot
be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give therefore your servant an
understanding heart to judge your people, that I may discern between
good and bad: for who is able to judge so great a people?’ And the speech
pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him,
‘Because you have asked this thing and have not asked for yourself long
life; neither have you asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of
your enemies; but have asked for yourself understanding to discern
judgment: Behold, I have done according to your words: lo, I have given
you a wise and understanding heart; so that there was none like you before
you, neither after you shall any arise like unto you’ ” (I Kings 3:5, 7-12).
Thus, Solomon became the wisest man to ever live. However, he turned away
from God in his old age, because of his foreign wives, and went after other
gods. As a result, Solomon became so lacking in judgment that God
divided the kingdom—separating the ten northern tribes and leaving only the
tribes of Judah, Benjamin and Levi with Jerusalem. Thus, God executed His
righteous judgment against Solomon—because God, remember, is not a
“respecter of persons.”
The System of Judges
Restored Under Jehoshaphat
After some time, Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, restored the system of judges.
He understood that judgment was, in fact, rendered for God—and not
for men. “And he set judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of
Judah, city by city, and said to the judges, ‘Take heed what you do: for
you judge not for man but for the Lord, Who is with you in the judgment.
Wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon you: take heed and do it: for
there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, nor respect of persons, nor
taking of gifts’ ” (II Chron. 19:5-7). Those judging must always remember,
“You judge not for man but for the Lord!”
As
we have seen, when Christ returns His throne will be established through
judgment and justice. “And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the
spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the
spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord; and shall make Him of quick
understanding in the fear of the Lord; and He shall not judge after the
sight of His eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of His ears: but with
righteousness shall He judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek
of the earth” (Isa. 11:2-4).
Because Christ is the Son of God, the Father has given all judgment into His
hands. “For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the
Son…. I have no power to do anything of Myself; but as I hear, I judge; and
My judgment is just because I do not seek My own will but the will of the
Father, Who sent Me” (John 5:22, 30). Jesus also said, “For judgment I have
come into this world…” (John 9:39). The Scriptures reveal that God the
Father is the source of all true, righteous judgment.
Sin
Destroys Judgment
The story of Solomon is a prime example—from which we can learn—that sin
destroys one’s ability to make righteous judgments. Solomon started out with
all the blessings of God, including the special blessing of an abundance of
godly wisdom and judgment. However, because he gave himself over to sin, he
gradually lost his wisdom and the ability to make righteous judgments.
Perhaps Solomon degenerated more than any other man in the record of the
Bible—having received special blessings from God, only to become a
sex-monger and a worshipper of demonic foreign gods. This destroyed his
capacity as king. “And it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives
turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with
the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father…. And Solomon did
evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully after the Lord…. And
the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord
God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice…” (I Kings 11:4, 6, 9).
Another example of how sin destroys judgment involves the sons of Samuel.
Samuel was righteous and judged Israel with righteous judgments. But
his sons were evil and took bribes. “And it came to pass when Samuel was
old, that he made his sons judges over Israel…. And his sons walked not in
his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes and PERVERTED
JUDGMENT” (I Sam. 8:1, 3). In such cases, one’s understanding and
ability to make proper and righteous judgments is reduced in direct
proportion to the degree of sin involved. In the final analysis, “Evil men
understand not judgment” (Prov. 28:5).
God shows us that when sin grows and multiplies throughout the land—and the
majority of the population is living in a state of sin—the land soon becomes
filled with wickedness and corruption. When a society becomes thus filled
with sin and iniquity, few indeed have the understanding needed to render
righteous judgments. Everything is turned upside down, with no discernment
between right and wrong: “Woe to them that call evil good, and good evil;
that put darkness for light, and light for darkness: that put bitter for
sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes,
and prudent in their own sight!” (Isa. 5:20-21).
“Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle
strong drink: which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the
righteousness of the righteous from him!” (verses 22-23).
When any nation, or people, or group, or church—or individual—reaches this
point, God must execute His judgment against them. “Therefore as the fire
devours the stubble, and the flame consumes the chaff, so their root shall
be as rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust: because they have
cast away the law of the Lord of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy
One of Israel. Therefore is the anger of the Lord kindled against his
people, and He has stretched forth His hand [of correction] against them,
and has smitten them…” (verses 24-25).
Isaiah also shows that even in such a sinful condition, God is willing to
save those who will turn to Him in repentance. “Behold, the Lord’s hand is
not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot
hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your
sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear. For your hands are
defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken
lies, your tongue has muttered perverseness. None calls for justice,
nor any PLEAD FOR TRUTH: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive
mischief, and bring forth iniquity…. Their feet run to evil, and they make
haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are the thoughts of iniquity;
wasting and destruction are in their paths. The WAY OF PEACE they know
not; and there is no judgment in their goings…. Therefore is
judgment far from us, neither does justice overtake us.… And
judgment is turned away backward, and justice stands afar off:
truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter. Yea, truth
fails; and he that departs from evil makes himself a prey [for persecution,
and is accounted mad]; and the Lord saw it, and it displeased Him that there
was NO JUDGMENT” (Isa. 59:1-15).
This passage describes the condition of many nations and peoples of the
world today. Sadly, this condition also exists in too many
Christian-professing churches. Still more tragic, such a depraved condition
also exists in some of the churches of God.
We
need to realize that there is an absolute law and living principle
which is constantly in effect: “The king [leader or ruler] by judgment
establishes the land; but he that receives gifts overthrows it” (Prov.
29:4). “The king [leader or ruler] that faithfully judges the poor,
his throne shall be established forever” (verse 14).
These two proverbs largely summarize the reigns of all the kings and judges
of Israel. Whenever a king or judge was righteous and executed righteous
judgments, God blessed the king or the judge, as well as the land and the
people. However, when the king or judge began to live in sin, they were
cursed and sin multiplied among the people. In every case, the leader’s
ability to make proper judgments was reduced in direct proportion to the
degree of their sin—leading, eventually, to the loss of their kingdom.
It
is exactly the same for us today—in our personal lives as well as in our
churches and fellowship groups. Congregations can be established by
righteous judgments, or destroyed because of improper judgments—which
usually are the result of rejecting God’s word, personal sins, the allowance
of sin in the congregation, or a lack of wisdom in general.
These situations need not exist. We must learn how to make righteous
judgments—but first, we need to look at common pitfalls and errors in
judgment.
Twelve Common Pitfalls and Errors in Judgment
Those who have the responsibility of rendering judgments must always be
aware of, and guard against, certain errors that could cloud their judgment.
When any major, basic error occurs, righteous judgment becomes impossible.
Instead, the judgment becomes a “man’s judgment” based on human
reasoning—and not God’s judgment based on His Word. Here are several common
pitfalls and human errors that sometimes affect judgment.
1)
Being Opinionated and Having a Closed Mind
This is so EASY to do, because everyone has opinions and his or her own way
of looking at things. Anyone who refuses (or is unable) to set aside
personal opinion, automatically begins to close the door to righteous
judgment. This common pitfall of being “opinionated” is reflected in the
following typical statements: “The Communists are the cause of all our
troubles.” “I don’t care what the Bible says, I’m going to heaven.” “I know
this person is always a troublemaker.” Or, “I won’t listen until you get rid
of your bad attitude.” Perhaps the one who is charged with making judgments
could go so far as to say, “I am always right because I am God’s minister or
deacon, or head of house. If you don’t agree with me, you disagree with
God.” Or, as so many have heard from ministers, “I’ll put you out of the
Church!”
The Scriptures are quite clear on this matter. Proverbs 26:12 says, “See you
a man wise in his own conceit? There is more hope of a fool than him.”
2) Being
One-Sided—Unwilling to Listen to Every Aspect of a Situation
Many times those who render judgments listen to only one side of a
story—and then make up their mind. For whatever reason, they fail to
hear the other side of the story. However, to be one-sided is a gross
sin when trying to come to a godly decision or judgment. More than once it
has been said (by those in authority) to the accused: “You cannot say
anything to justify yourself, even if I am totally wrong—because what I have
heard from others convinces me that I am totally right.” A proper judgment
or evaluation of a situation can never be rendered when it is one-sided.
3) Believing that “He
Who Comes First is Just”
This is closely related to the first two points—and if the first two
pitfalls and errors are present as well, the chances of exercising poor
judgment are greatly increased. This pitfall is most common in churches with
rigid, hierarchical government structures—where, if one can reach the
minister or boss first, he or she will likely get his or her own way
in a dispute. Such a situation often exists in families, between parents and
children. As well, this principle is often violated in the media, where the
one who gets to the media first sounds “right and just.”
This is particularly damaging when a “gossip” is taken into confidence and
their word is listened to as the “gospel truth.” But notice: “He that is
first in his own cause seems just: but his neighbor comes and searches him”
(Prov. 18:17). Anyone coming with a cause will seem just because “every way
of man is right in his own eyes” (Prov. 21:2). The one who comes first
will nearly always minimize his own faults and sins and maximize his own
good points. Then he will over-emphasize the other person’s faults and sins,
and tend to overlook his or her good points.
4) Failing to Get ALL
of the Facts
Incomplete information can be very damaging. For example: What if a man who
has had a “divorce and remarriage” situation in his own personal life was
seen with a woman—wearing make-up and a sensuous, short skirt. She was seen
going into his house, alone with him, staying all night. One could conclude,
“He must be having an affair with the woman. He must be committing
adultery.” On the surface, it looks like that could be the case. The
facts given were true—BUT, were they all of the facts? The essential
missing information is this: The woman was, in fact, his real wife—the one
he is bound to in the sight of God. She came for a two-week visit, possibly
considering reconciliation. This one fact completely changes the story. How
many lives have been destroyed because judgment was rendered without all
the facts?
Failing to “get all the facts” also includes overlooking certain
facts, minimizing certain facts, or over-emphasizing other
facts—and in general, failing to discern what is truth, and what is fiction.
5) Being a “Respecter
of Persons”—Showing Partiality
“It is not good to have respect in judgment” (Prov. 24:23). Showing
partiality falls into threes categories:
A)
Liking or not liking the individual. “Because he is my friend, I will
overlook sin in his or her life and give him or her the benefit of doubt.”
Favoritism is fatal to judgment. The other side of the coin is
not liking the person—where the inclination is to be critical and
condemning and overlook the person’s good points.
B)
Following the majority—whether right or wrong. This is the whole
basis of politics. However, the Bible shows that the majority is
generally wrong. For example: Just because most people cheat, does not make
cheating right; just because most people lie, does not make a “little” lie
okay. Saul is a prime example of “following the majority”—when he listened
to those who reasoned that it would be “a good thing” to spare the
Amalekite’s cattle and sheep (I Sam. 15). In their eyes, their
judgment was deemed better than God’s righteous judgment.
C)
Excusing the minority. It is all too easy to help the underdog, just
because he is down and out—often while overlooking the fact that there are
reasons for his or her condition. A faulty judgment that excuses the
minority—at the expense of truly dealing with the problem—only serves to
perpetuate the problem. In the United States, excusing the minority is often
expressed by showing sympathy to the criminal—by being overly concerned for
his rights and welfare—while at the same time totally neglecting the rights
of the law-abiding citizen. The Word of God instructs us, “It is not good to
accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment” (Prov.
18:5). “He that justifies the wicked, and he that condemns the just, even
they both are an abomination to the Lord” (Prov. 17:15).
6) Allowing Gifts to
Blind the Eyes
Bribery and the taking of gifts blind the eyes and pervert justice.
“And you shall take no gift; for the gift blinds the wise, and perverts the
words of the righteous” (Ex. 23:8). “A wicked man takes a gift out of the
bosom to pervert the ways of judgment” (Prov. 17:23). “And a gift destroys
the heart” (Eccl. 7:7). The sons of Samuel took bribes and gifts, perverting
judgment. Their actions caused the people of Israel to reject the system of
judges and to demand a king—which further removed them from God. Today, it
is quite common to hear that a person in authority—a judge, policeman or
minister—has taken gifts or money to make a certain decision.
Accepting gifts or presents from certain people can also become a
form of “taking bribes” if it sets the stage for future favoritism.
Complacency and contemptuousness can set in—and the one giving the gifts can
always “call in the favor,” attempting to sway judgment.
7) Rendering a Judgment
Before Really Hearing the Matter
Similar to points one and two above, this is the case of the “know-it-all.”
Proverbs expresses it this way: “He that answers a matter before he hears
it, it is folly and shame unto him” (Prov. 18:13). Even the naive would
quickly notice this attitude and decline to come to such a person for
judgment.
8) Looking at Outward
Circumstances and Physical Appearance
It
is often said that first impressions are the most lasting ones. First
impressions, however, are usually wrong—because it is very easy to
misjudge someone based on appearance. Whole TV programs—such as “Perry
Mason” and “Matlock”—are based on this factor, where evidence is presented
that appears to almost completely incriminate one party. The truth,
however, always turns out very different than outward circumstances would
indicate.
When you first meet someone, he or she might have a furrowed, worried look
on his or her face. One could jump to the conclusion that the person was in
a bad attitude or was in disagreement with what was being said. This might
not be the case. The individual might be in pain—or simply in deep thought,
drinking in every word that is said. Later, at another time, their
countenance might be entirely different. Thus, if we look on the outward
appearance, we are more likely than not to make a wrong judgment. This is
why Christ said, “Judge not according to appearance” (John 7:24).
9) Not Knowing the
Intentions of the Parties Involved
Sometimes a person will come seeking counsel or a judgment on a particular
matter, and give a “reason” that is not the real reason at all.
Sometimes this is done to gain personal favor over someone else, as is often
the case with husband and wife problems. Usually, the hidden motive is to
exalt the self by putting another person down—to make oneself appear
in a better light by focusing on someone else’s problems. Sometimes this is
done in an attempt to gain greater leverage over a spouse—or to exalt
oneself over others in the Church, etc.
In
Acts 5, we see an example of “ulterior motives.” The outward intentions of
Ananias and Sapphira were ostensibly to give money to the Church—to appear
to be doing good. In reality, however, they were attempting to hide
their sin—for they had been stealing from the very money they had promised
to give.
10) Doing What is
Expedient
At
times, the pressures for an “immediate” resolution to a situation seem so
great that we fail to consider the long-term consequences. Instead of really
solving the problem, an expedient judgment only tends to contribute
to a more long-term (and in some case, a more serious) problem. For example,
it might be expedient at the moment to demand that people have “good
attitudes” and “love each other.” However, if deep-rooted and
long-entrenched problems are not resolved, then nothing is really
accomplished. Such expediency only serves to further compound the situation.
It
might be expedient to make a public example of someone’s sins.
Ministers have been known to do this from the pulpit—all will “hear and
fear.” But the message in the long run is, “Don’t ever go to that
minister with any problem, because you will get blasted from the pulpit.”
The long-term consequence is that such a congregation will be full of fear,
error and sin.
Again, Proverbs says, “See a man hasty in his words [or as the margin reads,
in his matters]? There is more hope of him than a fool” (Prov.
29:20). Doing what is expedient in order to relieve the immediate
pressure to make a decision—when the long-term consequences have not been
fully considered—can be quite foolish and even dangerous.
11) Getting One’s
Personal Vanity Involved
Vanity is an extension of the self—and involves coloring everything (and
everyone) with our own ideas and personal points of view. In our own human
“self-centeredness,” we tend to picture ourselves as ideal and desirable—and
have a strong tendency to want “remake” others in our own image. When
dealing with others, we too often make decisions and judgments that reflect
the self—involving our own personal likes and dislikes, etc. Rather,
our judgments should help others to mold their character after the
image of God and Christ. Remember: “Every man at his best state is
altogether vanity…. Surely every man walks in a vain show” (Psa. 39:5-6).
Vanity is elusive, because “every way of a man is clean in his own eyes…” (Prov.
16:2).
Without realizing and understanding this tendency, one could come across as
oppressive. “The prince that wants [lacks] understanding is also a GREAT
OPPRESSOR…” (Prov. 28:16). Coloring every decision with our own ideas only
serves the self, not others.
12) Applying an
Over-Generalized Solution
Great “pronouncements” and “lofty solutions” tend to only skim the surface
of a problem. And while an overall “general solution” can apply in
some cases, judgments with specific solutions are usually needed.
One may give a sweeping generalization such as, “You need to overcome.” But
such a statement does not tell the person what to overcome, how
to overcome or why to overcome. Similarly, advice such as, “You need
to pray more” or “You need to study more” are too general to be helpful
(although such advice may be true). Such over-generalized
“solutions”—lacking in specific direction and detail—are virtually useless.
Rather, solutions should be given that are tailored to the individual’s
actual needs.
These twelve common pitfalls and human errors clearly demonstrate how easily
one can be hindered in “judging righteous judgment.” Now we need to
look at the positive side—of how we are to exercise righteous
judgment.
Seventeen Keys to Righteous Judgment
To
render a fair, righteous, and loving judgment is one of the most pleasing
things to God that we, as Christians, can do. It is, in fact, the
essence—the heart and core—of how we are learning to become kings and
priests under Christ in the coming Kingdom of God. As members of God’s
Church, we must now be diligently learning how to exercise righteous
judgment—in all areas of our personal lives and in our dealings with others.
Righteous, godly judgment edifies and builds
up the Church. It establishes and sustains the Church, providing stability
and strength in times of trouble. Many proverbs demonstrate the importance
of righteous judgment. For example: “The king by JUDGMENT establishes the
land” (Prov. 29:4). “To do JUSTICE AND JUDGMENT is more acceptable to the
Lord than sacrifice” (Prov. 21:3). “A king that sits on the THRONE OF
JUDGMENT scatters away all evil with his eyes” (Prov. 20:8). “It is JOY to
the just to do judgment” (Prov. 21:15).
Justice and judgment bring great joy and peace of mind to the brethren of
God’s Church. Righteous judgment rids the Church of sin and
unrighteousness—so that confidence, peace and unity are strengthened.
Therefore, it becomes imperative for each of us to learn how to
develop, maintain and exercise proper judgment—regardless of our status in
the Church. Below are some of the
qualities needed in order to exercise righteous judgment.
1) Remember, the
Judgment is God’s—Not Yours
“Take heed what you do: for you judge not
for man but for the Lord…” (II Chron. 19:6). Every decision and judgment
must be based on God’s law and the principles found in the Bible. This is
the absolute foundation of righteous judgment.
2) Know Yourself—and
Get Sin Out of Your Life
Before you can fairly and objectively judge others, you must be able to
accurately and realistically judge yourself before God. Knowing your
own strengths and weaknesses is a matter of spiritual maturity—and honesty
on your part. “Now if we would examine ourselves, we would not be judged [by
God]” (I Cor. 11:31).
You must know yourself so you can avoid (as much as possible)
the mistake of “reading yourself” into any judgment. If you have certain
weaknesses, you must take steps to be certain that your weaknesses do not
cause you to render a poor decision or judgment. For example, if you tend to
be somewhat dominating, you must be careful to avoid forcing your personal
will into a decision. Remember that God is molding those He has called into
the image of Jesus Christ, not in the image of any other human being.
Whatever judgments need to be made, they must be made in harmony with God’s
plan and purpose—to help each Christian become conformed to the character of
God and the image of Jesus Christ.
Hand-in-hand with knowing yourself is getting sin out of your life. Since
the ability to make sound judgments depends directly on the your level of
righteousness, you need to constantly be on guard against sin—and
actively be putting sin out of your life through the grace and love of God
by the blood of Jesus Christ. It is impossible to live in sin and make
righteous judgments. Notice this proverb: “A divine sentence is in the lips
of the king: his mouth transgresses not in judgment…. It is an
abomination to kings to commit wickedness: For the throne is established
by righteousness” (Prov. 16:10, 12).
God shows that in order to help others, we must get sin out of our lives.
“For with what judgment you
judge, you shall be judged; and with what measure you mete out, it shall be
measured again to you. Now why do you
look at the sliver that is in your brother’s eye, but you do not
perceive the beam in your own eye? Or how will you say to your
brother, ‘Allow me to remove the sliver from your eye’; and behold,
the beam is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first
cast out the beam from your own eye, and then you shall see
clearly to remove the sliver from your brother’s eye”
(Matt. 7:2-5). Know your strengths and weakness, and get sin out of your
life—and thus grow in your ability to make righteous judgments.
3) In Every Case, Hear
ALL the Facts
This is one of the most vital requirements in coming to a decision or
judgment. Without all the facts, it is impossible to come to a
righteous decision. In some cases, it takes a lot of hard work to be
complete and thorough and to get all the facts. This is especially necessary
when determining doctrinal matters, or trying to understand problems in a
divorce and remarriage situation. Make sure no critical facts are missing,
dismissed or overlooked. One missing fact can entirely change a judgment or
decision. When getting all the facts, check them out carefully to make sure
they are true. This will require deep and serious questioning on the part of
the one making the decision or judgment. If necessary, you may need to ask
the “un-askable” questions, but do so tactfully and thoughtfully. Pierce
through to the heart of the matter and get all the facts. Never
consider any question too embarrassing or too personal—because if you avoid
asking the hard questions, you might never get the information needed for a
proper judgment or decision.
4) Always be Open
Minded and Hear All Aspects of a Situation
This is closely tied to “getting all the facts,” and is just as essential.
You must always listen to all aspects of the situation with an open
mind. This is the only way you can ever be fair and just in your
decisions and judgments. Remember, people will always be inclined to put
themselves in the best light possible. Thus, the two “sides of the story”
will seldom agree—but, by listening to both sides and sifting through
all the chaff, you will be able to come to the truth of the matter. Then you
will be able to make a right and proper decision or judgment. Never make
a one-sided decision, and do not assume that the one who comes first
is necessarily right in the matter. You must always be open-minded and
listen to both sides. “He that is first in his own cause seems just; but his
neighbor comes and searches him” (Prov. 18:17). If you make a decision or
judgment based on only one side of the story, eventually you will hear from
the other party. Then it will be discovered that your decision was unjust.
5) Never Render a
Judgment Without Hearing the Entire Matter
Similar to the two previous points, this means, “don’t jump the gun”—but
take the time to hear the whole story. “He that answers a matter before he
hears it, it is folly and shame unto him” (Prov. 18:13). “He that is hasty
of spirit exalts folly” (Prov. 14:29). Answering a matter before you hear it
fully is the impulse that wells up inside your mind, urging you to
make a decision or judgment right now. But wait—hear every matter
in its entirety.
6) Never Look Only at
Circumstances and Outward Appearance
Being human, it is all too easy to render a judgment based only on
appearance and circumstances. However, Jesus Christ said, “Judge not
according to appearance, but judge righteous judgment” (John 7:24). We
can all be happy that Christ will always look at the heart and the
intent—and always judge righteous judgment.
The apostle Paul was inspired to write, “Are you looking at things according
to their appearance?” (II Cor. 10:7). Outward appearances and circumstances
are important in coming to a decision, but we should always look deeper.
For example, loosing one’s temper could simply be a bad habit, or it could
be caused by a long-standing frustration. To counsel a person on how to
overcome a “bad temper” would not be entirely adequate—since the problem of
a deep-seated frustration is what really needs to be addressed. When you go
beyond circumstances and the outward appearance, you can not only avoid
giving superficial advice, but you will be able to get to the heart of the
problem and judge righteous judgment.
7) Discern the
Attitudes and Motives of Those Involved
This comes with experience in dealing with people. It is true that “the
heart is deceitful above all things.” Therefore, when people come for
advice, it may well be possible that some do not even understand their own
attitude. This quality of discernment comes as a gift of the Holy Spirit (I
Cor. 12:10), so that the brethren of God’s Church can be properly served and
helped.
It
is especially critical to sense and understand the attitude or
spirit of those who might come with information about the sins and
faults of others. Of course, the one bearing such alleged sins and faults
should not be received—but be advised to go to the person alone and
settle the matter. In many instances such a person could be a self-righteous
talebearer trying to stir up trouble. This is why Jesus Christ gave us the
vital instructions of Matthew 18.
8) Never be a
“Respecter of Persons”
It
does not matter who the person is, what his position is, how much money he
makes, or who his relatives are—never show partiality. Whether you
like or dislike a person also has absolutely no bearing on any judgment. Do
not show favoritism to a minority just because they are in the minority—and
do not go along with the majority if they are wrong. “You shall not follow a
multitude [the majority] to do evil…. Neither shall you countenance a poor
man in his cause [just because he is poor or downtrodden]” (Ex. 23:2-3).
“You shall not respect the person of the poor, nor honor the person of the
mighty,” and “there is no respect of persons with God” (Lev. 19:15 and Rom.
2:11).
Remember, this is the Church of God—not the church of any man. Not
showing partiality is essential when considering men for ordination as
deacons or elders. Whenever we allow favoritism to influence us to any
degree, we begin to play politics and look to men—and thus begin to fail in
looking to God. As we have all too often seen, the Church of God then
becomes a church of men. Ultimately, if we reject God by showing partiality
and playing politics, then we will be rejected by God.
9) Never Accept a Gift
No
one, especially a minister, should ever accept anything that could be
considered a gift or a service from anyone who could possibly sway your
judgment. Never allow yourself to get into a position where you become
obligated to any man or woman in any way personally. This could come in
the form of loans, gifts, food, clothing, meals, work or services. “And you
shall take no gifts: for the gift blinds the wise, and perverts the words of
the righteous” (Ex. 23:8). Notice that the taking of gifts does not blind
the eyes of the foolish, but the eyes of the wise—and perverts the words of
the righteous, not the unrighteous. Each baptized member, deacon, overseer
and minister is personally responsible before God to uphold the integrity
and confidence of His Church.
10) Always be Totally
Fair and Impartial
Many of the previous points cover different aspects of being totally fair
and impartial. If all of the preceding nine points are carried out
correctly, your judgment will be totally fair and impartial. This point,
however, is mentioned as a separate category for emphasis and
thoroughness in the overall concept of judging righteous judgment.
11) Educate Yourself on
God’s Laws, Statues and Judgments
In
order to render judgments based on God’s laws, you must thoroughly know
God’s laws, statues and judgments. This takes continual study. “Diligently
study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman who does not
need to be ashamed, RIGHTLY dividing the Word of the truth” (II
Tim. 2:15). This takes time, effort and being yielded to God.
We
need to follow God’s admonition to Joshua when he was about to lead the
children of Israel into the promised land. God commanded him and said, “Only
be strong and very courageous that you may observe to do according to all
the law, which Moses my servant commanded you: Turn not from it to the right
hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. This book of the
law shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shall meditate therein day
and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written
therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall
have good success” (Joshua 1:7-8).
This is the attitude necessary to develop righteous judgment—a quality of
mind that is based on truth and righteousness. It is a gift from God that
can only come by the continual, deep, prayerful study of God’s word—Old
Testament and New Testament alike. To learn to exercise righteous judgment,
educate yourself on God’s laws, statues and judgments—and fill your mind
with the words of Jesus Christ.
12) In Difficult Cases,
Seek Counsel
“In the multitude of counsellors there is safety” (Prov. 11:14). “Without
counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they
are established” (Prov. 15:22). With proper counsel, you can be assured that
you have God’s perspective on a difficult case.
13) Think of the Long
Term Effects
When making a decision or judgment, think of the effects over the long term.
Consider the end. Make sure the decision or judgment will not cause
more problems in the long run, which will need to be resolved as well.
Never do what is expedient, just because of the pressure of the moment.
A wise man once said, “On important matters and decisions—SLEEP ON IT!” This
is very good advice and will help you think through the long-term effects of
any decision. The Scriptures say, “Where no vision is, the people perish”
(Prov. 29:18). So it is with judgment. There must be vision to see the
long-term effects—or the people perish.
14) Always Make Your
Decisions and Judgments Specific and Clear
Ambiguity and uncertainty cause confusion. Whenever a decision or judgment
is made, make sure it is specific and clear so that everything
is completely understood. This is why God has given us the Ten Commandments
and not the “Ten Suggestions.” He wants us to clearly know and understand
His will.
15) The Element of
Timing in a Judgment
The timing for implementing a judgment is very important—and can impact its
overall effect. Waiting too long in making a judgment, for example, can be
very hard on the individuals involved. This is especially true when dealing
with difficult problems. In fact, people have been known to suffer from
various health problems, emotional breakdowns or attitudes of total
discouragement—all because judgments were too slow in being rendered.
God’s word says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick…. [And] there is that
[which] is destroyed for want [lack] of judgment [or slowness in coming to a
judgment]” (Prov. 13:12, 23).
It
takes wisdom and discernment to know when a decision should be implemented.
Procrastination, however, almost always causes frustration—and everyone gets
nervous while waiting for something to happen. Conversely, hastily made
judgments also cause grief and harm. A proper sense of timing is crucial.
“A
wise man’s heart discerns both time and judgment…. [And] to every purpose
there is time and judgment…” (Eccl. 8:5-6). Correct timing is a key element
in the implementation of any decision or judgment.
16) The All-Important
Element of Mercy in Judgment
Judgment and mercy go hand-in-hand—and mercy should always play a part in
any judgment rendered. Mercy, of course, requires evidence of a right
attitude and real repentance. And while mercy may soften judgment, mercy
never negates judgment.
After giving instructions on settling disputes in Matthew 18:15-20, Peter
asked Jesus about forgiving the one who had caused the offence. “Then Peter
came to Him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against
me and I forgive him? Until seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say
to you until seven times, but until seventy times seven’ ” (verses 21-22).
Why did Jesus express it that way? Because—for the one who has caused
offence—a lack of mercy can destroy the heart and quench the desire
to change. The misuse of mercy can defeat the purpose of judgment—by
encouraging license to do evil on the one hand, or by causing rigid
oppression on the other. God’s mercy endures forever. Remember, however,
that even at the edge of the Lake of Fire, the wicked will weep and gnash
their teeth and plead for mercy—but God’s judgment will stand.
The account of David and his sin with Bathsheba is often used to show how
merciful God is towards sinners. This is true—and God was merciful to
David after he repented. But God’s mercy was only one aspect of His
judgment in this incident—for David still paid a heavy price for his sin.
Let’s look at the account and see how judgment with mercy was applied
by God.
“And Nathan said to David, ‘You are the man [who is guilty]. Thus says the
Lord God of Israel, I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you out
of the hand of Saul: and I gave you your master’s house, and your master’s
wives into your bosom, and gave you the house of Israel and Judah; and if
that had been too little, I would moreover have given unto you such and such
things. Wherefore, have you despised the commandment of the Lord, to do evil
in his sight? You have killed Uriah the Hittite with a sword, and have taken
his wife to be your wife, and have slain him with the sword of the children
of Ammon. Now therefore the SWORD SHALL NEVER DEPART FROM YOUR HOUSE:
because you have despised Me.’… Thus says the Lord, ‘I will raise up evil
against you out of your own house, and I will take your wives from
before your eyes and give them unto your neighbor, and he shall lie with
your wives in the sight of the sun. For you did it secretly: BUT I WILL DO
THIS THING BEFORE ALL ISRAEL, AND BEFORE THE SUN.’ ”
“And David said unto Nathan, ‘I have sinned against the Lord.’ And Nathan
said unto David, ‘The Lord also has put away your sin; YOU SHALL NOT DIE
[THIS IS GOD’S MERCY BECAUSE OF REPENTANCE]. Howbeit, because by this deed
you have given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the
child also that is born unto you shall surely die’
” (II Sam. 12:7-14).
In
this account, it is clear that God’s mercy did not negate His judgment—which
remained the same, even though David fasted many days to try and persuade
God to change His mind. God was clearly very merciful to David—but God’s
judgment remained to insure that David would learn the lesson and would
never again take advantage of the blessings God had given to him as King of
Israel. When we read the Psalms that David wrote after this incident, we can
see that it was God’s judgment that really made David appreciate God’s
mercy. This is what made David seek God with all his heart, and love Him
with his whole being.
Judgment should tempered with proper mercy—but, at the same time, mercy
should never replace judgment.
17) You Must be Filled
With God’s Spirit and Have the Mind of Christ
We
will end where we began. Being filled with God’s Holy Spirit is the most
important ingredient and factor in having the spirit of righteous
judgment. The real ability to judge comes from God—and through His
Spirit we receive the love and grace of God.
God’s Spirit is personified as “Wisdom” in Proverbs 8—which clearly shows
how God’s Spirit leads in judgment. “Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am
understanding; I have strength. By me kings reign, and princes decree
justice. By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of
the earth…. I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of THE PATHS OF
JUDGMENT” (Prov. 8:14-16, 20).
When God set up the council of seventy elders to assist Moses in judging
Israel, He had to give each one of them a portion of the same spirit He had
given to Moses. “And the Lord said unto Moses, ‘Gather unto me seventy men
of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be elders of the people, and
officers over them…. And I will take of the spirit which is upon you, and
will put it upon them’ ” (Num. 11:16-17).
This also applies to the ministry of the New Testament Church. Paul
admonished Timothy, “For this reason, I admonish you to stir up the gift
of God that is in you by the laying on of my hands. For God has
not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of
sound-mindedness” (II Tim. 1:6-7).
God says we are to “be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18). We must
be filled with the Spirit of God, just as were the Apostles. “And when they
had prayed … they were all filled with the HOLY SPIRIT…” (Acts
4:31). If we are filled with the Spirit of God, we will be able to develop
and exercise the quality of righteous judgment.
God wants us today to be able to say, like Micah, “But truly I AM FULL of
power by the spirit of the Lord, and of JUDGMENT, and of might…”
(Micah 3:8). When we have God’s Spirit and use it as God directs, He will
give us the quality of righteous judgment. This is why Paul wrote, “However,
the one who is spiritual discerns all things…. But we have the mind
of Christ” (I Cor. 2:15-16). This is the most basic criteria of all—we
must have God’s Spirit, THE MIND OF CHRIST and BE FILLED WITH THE LOVE
OF GOD! “Let this mind be in you, which was also in
CHRIST JESUS” (Phil. 2:5).
Then we will truly be able to “judge righteous judgment.”
CONCLUSION
We
have seen how important righteous judgment is to God, and to all of God’s
people. The spirit of righteous judgment is a character quality of
God and His Son Jesus Christ. In this age of complexity and turmoil, as
never before, we need this same character quality. God’s Church is to stand
firm in truth and righteousness. By being filled with the Spirit of
God and the mind of Christ, each one of us, as children of God, can avoid
the common pitfalls and human errors in exercising godly judgment. When we
apply these keys of righteous judgment, God will bless us and continue to
use us. We will uphold the integrity and confidence of the Church of God. As
a result, God will bless His people with peace, unity, joy and success.
“The king by JUDGMENT establishes the land” (Prov. 29:4).
“It is joy to the just to do judgment” (Prov. 21:15).
Remember, Jesus Christ said, “JUDGE RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT”
(John 7:24
