We are called to analyze situations or actions as right or wrong in light of Scripture (Luke 17:3-4). If someone who claims to be a Christian does something wrong, we have a Biblical obligation to say, "What you did is wrong," but we should not assume what any person is thinking or feeling. When we do, we will not get it right. They probably weren't thinking what we thought they were at all. We all do this, but it is very arrogant (prideful) of us to believe we can correctly judge the motives of others when God's Word clearly tells us that only HE can. The Bible tells us to keep our minds on what is true and just. We can't do that if we are passing judgement on other's thoughts and intentions because we honestly don't know what they are thinking. If we are going to "think on what is true," then we have to deal honestly with others and ourselves. God says He is the only one who knows the hearts of people. That should discourage us from doing two things:
- pridefully assuming what is in other's hearts and
- trying to hide/deny what is in ours in an effort to avoid the work we need to do there.
Colossians 3:5-10 So put everything evil out of your life: sexual sin, doing anything immoral, letting sinful thoughts control you, and wanting things that are wrong. And don’t keep wanting more and more for yourself, which is the same as worshiping a false god. God will show his anger against those who don’t obey him, because they do these evil things. You also did these things in the past, when you lived like them. But now put these things out of your life: anger, losing your temper, doing or saying things to hurt others, and saying shameful things. Don’t lie to each other. You have taken off those old clothes—the person you once were and the bad things you did then. Now you are wearing a new life, a life that is new every day. You are growing in your understanding of the one who made you. You are becoming more and more like him.
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Romans 2:1 You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.
