'Judge not that ye be not judged' an approach to teaching Matthew 7
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What is the difference between a righteous and an unrighteous judgment or decision?
Dean of religious education at Brigham Young University Terry B. Ball posed that question to those attending his lecture during the Sidney B. Sperry Symposium at BYU on Oct. 31.
"Carefully looking for answers to that question in Matthew chapter seven can be an effective approach to studying and teaching this important passage from the Sermon on the Mount," Brother Ball said.
He gave examples of how individuals can look to the Sermon on the Mount to find principles of righteous judgment.
Judge others with clear and empathetic eyes (Matthew 7:3-4, 12). Brother Ball spoke of the need for individuals to study situations and consider others' readiness and willingness. He said it is necessary to look at all situations while waiting to pass judgment on others.
Seek inspiration from the Father as a guide in decision-making (Matthew 7:7-11). As individuals look to their Heavenly Father for direction they are more able to see the situation and others as God sees them. Individuals will then be able to align their will with His, and judge with empathy (Matthew 7:12).
Choose the right, rather than the easy. Citing references in the scriptures such as Jonah, David and Bathsheba, and Ruth, Brother Ball spoke of the need to choose to react in the right manner, even when it is the harder thing to do (Matthew 7:13-14).
"By their fruits ye shall know them" (Matthew 7:15-20). Brother Ball said that studying the consequences that come from an action — whether good or bad — is necessary in decision-making and righteous judgment. Individuals must consider the consequences of their choices in the long run, and the fruits from that decision.
Align your will with God's will (Matthew 7:21-23). Individuals must ask, "What would Heavenly Father have me do?" Brother Ball said. "He doesn't leave us guessing. We then need to do our best to align ourselves with what Heavenly Father wants us to do."
