Is calling out sin the same as judging people?

“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”” (John‬ 8‬:11‬ NIV‬‬)

Most people quote Matthew‬ 7‬:1‬-2‬ as commanding us not to judge sin in someone’s life. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” But the thought and command expressed in those two verses is continued and completed in the next five verses: “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” (Matthew 5.3-7 NIV)

Jesus is quite clearly saying that we should not judge someone else’s sin if we do not first address any sin in our own life, but after we do that, then go ahead and warn others of sin. Paul expressly told Christians to point out sin in the world: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians‬ 5‬:11‬ NIV‬‬)

Now, just as important is to recall that the Christian has extra responsibility to call out sin within the church. In fact, we should deal with that first. And always…always…remember that calling out sin is not about judging people…it is about helping them turn to a righteous, loving God. 

Say good things about your Savior and His Church on the Bluff.