Who is the Judge?

Forgiveness  and God’s Judgement

Why is it important we don’t judge others? Why does God want us to forgive, to “turn the other cheek,” as the saying goes? So we ask this question: Who is the Judge?

Jesus shows His love by warning us that judgment begets judgment on ourselves. Violence begets violence. Romans chapter 2 teaches us that if we exercise harsh judgment on others, that same judgment will be shown to us.

The Word of God

(Romans Ch.2) You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on another. For on whatever grounds you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. (v.2) And we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. (v.3) So when you, O man, pass judgment on others, yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? (v.4) Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance?

(v.5) But because of your hard and unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. (v.6) God “will repay each one according to his deeds. (v.7) To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life. (v.8) But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow wickedness, there will be wrath and anger.

(v.9) There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil, first for the Jew, then for the Greek; (v.10) but glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does good, first for the Jew, then for the Greek. (V.11)  For God does not show favoritism.” (Romans 2:1-11 Berean Study Bible)

Jesus, through Paul, is trying to clarify between righteousness, self-righteousness,  and pridefulness. No one is exempt from judgment.  Each and every one of us is going to answer to God for our actions.

Who we are, or more accurately who we think we are, means nothing to God. God is not a respecter of persons.

Worldy or Godly Respect

Let’s consider a supreme court judge. This person is highly respected in this country’s legal system. Some may think he may be beyond reproach. However, in God’s eyes, this Judge is equal to the thief that he sentenced to prison for five years.

This prisoner, who is trying to pay his debt to society, decided to attend a prison Christian church ministry. He learned of Christ’s love, and compassion, His forgiveness of sins, and this prisoner gave himself over to Christ. This hardened criminal, through the word of God, transformed his heart into the likeness of Jesus Christ.

Now consider the highly respected Judge. This man never saw a need to give his heart to anyone, He had power, and respect among his peers. All his worldly needs were satisfied, and he saw no need to be accountable to anyone, not even God. In his eyes, in his courtroom, he was a god.

Who do you think deserves Godly judgment?

On the Cross

May I bring you back to a story on the cross. Remember two other prisoners, also crucified with Jesus. One of these men mocked Jesus as he hung on his cross, the other gave his heart to Jesus. Jesus Christ forgave the second man of his sins because of his faith in the Son of God.

Please don’t misunderstand my intent. Every land needs law and order. Without this, anarchy rules, and Satan loves lawless confusion.

However, in Deuteronomy ch. 32:35, the Bible states: Vengence is mine and recompense; their foot will slip in due time…” Meaning God will make them pay by His judgment. Remember, God’s got this.

Who is the Judge?

Jesus, in the Bible, is teaching you not to judge others for their sins. You are not qualified to look into a man’s heart and soul. Who is the Judge? Only Jesus holds the title as Judge.

The Body of Christ

We are qualified to write and enforce man’s law and to enact just punishment when these laws are broken. More importantly, we are qualified to show the love of Christ through tolerance, forgiveness, and grace.

The body of Christ has been given the task of spreading the truth, the message of salvation, and the love of God. We are empowered to teach the truth of Jesus. We must, however, not harshly punish someone for their sin but show the mercy and grace of Jesus Christ.

Remember, in John 3:17, Jesus was sent to the world to save the world, not condemn it to Hell. Jesus accepted your punishment so you may be saved and appear before God, cleansed of your sin.

The Only Task

All you have to do is accept in your heart that Jesus Christ is the son of God. Accept He was born of a virgin, accept He was crucified for your sins, accept that He died, and after three days was resurrected to show the Glory of God and defeat Satans hold on our souls.

The only task a person must perform is the task of the prisoner. Transform your heart into the likeness of Christ. Accept Jesus, follow His commandments. Jesus served your sentence because He loves you.