CompaRED

Craig Bowler continued the RED series by discussing judgement of others.  Text: Matthew 7:1-5

God is more concerned about the reaction of sin, than the sin.  For example, when we judge others or covet others-- we say to God "you haven't done enough for me".  Coveting drives a wedge between us and others.

We judge others to feel superior about ourselves.  But we should only be concerned about what GOD thinks of us, and we should judge others to boost our self esteem.

John 8:1-11 -- explains how Jesus handles judgement  -- "Ye, without sin cast the first stone".  Imagine what Jesus was writing in the sand when the Pharisees brought the adulterous woman before him. Was he perhaps writing their sins or the names of the women they had affairs with?  Why did the oldest Pharisees leave first? Was it because they had the most sins?

What name would have to be written down for you to drop your stones and walk away?

There is now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

We need to accept others -- be present, listen to others, not judging, allow others to reveal themselves.

But people rarely do reveal themselves because they are afraid of the rocks or of separation.

Jesus could have thrown a stone at the adulterous woman, seeing that he is perfect. But he chose not to. Instead, he showed her compassion. He encouraged her to go and sin no more! 

Acceptance is different from the tolerance of sin -- Love the sinner, hate the sin.

It is only in Jesus that we can have our deepest needs met.  Come to him and find strength and healing!  He will provide LOVE and HOPE!