When Should We Judge Others? Exploring Contradictions in the Teachings of Jesus and the Apostles

In this article, you will learn how John 8:7 contradicts Matthew 7:1, Romans 2:1, James 4:12 and Luke 6:37. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..

In examining the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles, we encounter seemingly contrasting instructions regarding judgment and forgiveness. At the center of this discussion is John 8:7. Here, Jesus famously responds to those ready to stone a woman caught in adultery with, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone." This statement suggests that only those without sin should judge, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and mercy before passing judgment.

However, other biblical texts appear to present a more straightforward stance against judgment. In Matthew 7:1, we find the instruction, "Judge not, that ye be not judged," which implies a direct prohibition against judging to avoid being judged ourselves. Similarly, Romans 2:1 highlights the hypocrisy inherent in judging others, stating that by judging, individuals condemn themselves for committing similar wrongs.

In James 4:12, we see a rhetorical question underscoring who holds the authority to judge: "There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?" This verse suggests that judgment is God's domain, not man's. Lastly, Luke 6:37 echoes the call for total abstention from judgment with, "Judge not, and ye shall not be judged," advocating for a simple life free from condemning others.

These varying perspectives can be likened to different rules of a game. In John 8:7, the rule suggests only a perfect player can make a call, somewhat impractical as all players are flawed. The other verses remove the responsibility of refereeing altogether, letting the game remain graciously unjudged, analogous to the belief that ultimate judgment belongs to a higher power alone. This leaves us pondering whether judgment is ever our right or responsibility.