11/02/2026
"Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment." (John 7:24)
God's Word makes it clear that we can judge rightly. However, we are not to condemn or be judgmental (cf. Matthew 7:1-5). Rather, we should be discerning. We are to make sure that we know the truth and understand the whole story so that we may judge righteously.
A fool judges based on assumptions, whereas a sage judges in righteousness. A shallow person judges based on appearance, whereas a perceptive person judges based on character.
Ultimately, our judgments should be based on truth. We are to judge rightly based on God's righteousness, not self-righteous legalism; on an accurate understanding of God's revealed truth, not censorious heresy-hunting; and on our intimate relationship with God as a fully devoted follower and imitator of Jesus Christ.
How do you judge with righteous judgment?
Rev. Peter T. Mang
Agape Lifeway
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