Matthew 7:1-3 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

Judging.

In warning against hindrances to holiness, our Lord begins with judging; for in this young converts too often expend the zeal which is given them for better uses. The text admonishes us—

I. THAT THERE IS A JUDGMENT TO COME .

1 . This life is under judicial rule.

2 . But the judgments of this life are not final.

3 . Revelation makes this clear.

II. THAT DIVINE JUSTICE IS RETRIBUTIVE .

1 . In its principles.

2 . In its sanctions.

III. THESE FACTS SHOULD INFLUENCE OUR CONDUCT .

1 . The injunction " judge not " is conditional.

2 . We must not judge rashly.

3 . We must not judge harshly.

4 . There is a sphere in which we must not judge.