Context

Matthew 7:1-5 (KJV)

• “Judge not, that ye be not judged.”

• “For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.”

• “And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?”

• “Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?”

• “Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.”

Interpretation

Key Principles

• Self-reflection: Recognize your own flaws before criticizing others (v. 3).

• Humility: Acknowledge your own sinfulness, rather than focusing on others’ (v. 3).

• Mercy: Treat others with kindness and understanding, as God shows mercy to you (v. 2).

• Hypocrisy: Avoid condemning others while ignoring your own faults (v. 5).

Biblical Terms

• Mote (speck): Small, insignificant sin or flaw in others.

• Beam (log): Significant, obvious sin or flaw in oneself.

• Judge: Condemn or criticize.

Jesus’ Teaching

• Do not judge: Avoid condemning others without self-reflection (v. 1).

• Measure of judgment: God will judge you by the same standard you use to judge others (v. 2).

• Self-correction: Address your own flaws before correcting others (v. 5).

Biblical Support

• Romans 2:1-3 (KJV): Paul warns against judging others while ignoring one’s own sin.

• 1 Corinthians 11:31 (KJV): Self-examination is essential before judging others.

• James 4:11-12 (KJV): Do not speak evil against one another.

Practical Application

• Self-examination: Regularly reflect on your actions, thoughts and motivations.

• Confession and repentance: Address your own sins before criticizing others.

• Empathy and compassion: Treat others with kindness and understanding.

• Constructive criticism: Offer helpful correction, not judgmental condemnation.

Overcoming Obstacles

• Pride: Recognize your own limitations and sinfulness.

• Self-righteousness: Avoid feeling superior to others.

• Fear of confrontation: Gently address issues with humility.

Conclusion

• Humility in recognizing personal flaws.

• Mercy in treating others with kindness.

• Self-reflection before judging others.

• Avoiding hypocrisy in spiritual growth.

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary: Provides insightful explanations.

• John Calvin’s Commentary: Offers theological perspectives.

• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary: Provides detailed analysis.