Discernment v/s Judgment

As Christians, we are called to live lives of holiness and to encourage one another in the faith. However, in our zeal to uphold biblical standards, we must be careful not to cross the line from discernment into judgment. While the two may seem similar on the surface, there are important differences that we must understand in order to avoid sinning with our words and attitudes.

Examining Ourselves First

One key distinction between discernment and judgment is that discernment starts with thoroughly examining ourselves before evaluating the actions of others. The Apostle Paul instructs us in 1 Corinthians 11:28,31, "But let a man examine himself... For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged."

In contrast, one who judges often condemns others for the very problems they have yet to overcome in their own life. Romans 2:1 warns, "Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things." We must deal with the log in our own eye before attempting to remove the speck from our brother's eye (Matthew 7:5).

Gathering Facts Before Drawing Conclusions

Another difference between discernment and judgment relates to how we process information. Discernment involves carefully checking the accuracy of information before reaching a conclusion. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 exhorts us to "Test all things; hold fast what is good."

On the other hand, judgment often jumps to conclusions based on first impressions, hearsay, and limited information. Those who judge look for evidence to support the opinion they have already formed, seeking validation of their own biases. But Proverbs 18:13 cautions, "He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him." We must gather the facts and hear people out before rendering any kind of verdict.

Addressing Issues Privately When Possible

A third distinction is that discernment seeks to address problems as privately as possible, while judgment tends to publicly expose and condemn. Lord Jesus Himself validated this principle of private confrontation in Matthew 18:15, saying, "Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother."

Discernment aims to restore brothers and sisters who have stumbled, not to shame them publicly. Galatians 6:1 instructs, "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted." We should extend the same grace we hope to receive.

Recognising Our Own Accountability

Ultimately, we must recognise that it is God's job to judge, not ours. Romans 14:10-12 asks, "But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. So then each of us shall give an account of himself to God."

On that day, we will answer for our own lives, not for our critiques of others. While we should certainly practice discernment and gently correct those who are in error, we must do so with humility, care and the awareness of our own weaknesses and frailty. Let us purpose in our hearts to operate in discernment birthed from self-examination, factual understanding, and a desire to restore - never in judgmentalism fueled by hypocrisy, assumptions, and public shaming. As the saying goes, "Facts are your friends, but assumptions are your enemies."

Discernment v/s Judgment

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