How do we identify who are the “dogs” and “pigs” and how do we know the false prophets? Ans: by exercising righteous judgment that Jesus commends and commands. John 7:24 reads, “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” What is this “righteous judgment”? Fortunately, he explains the answer in this text. To judge with righteous judgment is the opposite of judging on the basis of outward appearance. Carnal human beings tend to be rash or quick to pass a decision based on appearances. It’s easier and experience may teach that the likelihood of its accuracy is great.
Connected with this carnal judgment is often a self-righteous, hypocritical judgment. Matthew 7:3-5 explains that it is someone with a log in his own eye judging someone with a speck in his eye. The eye is very sensitive and trying to get a small speck of dust out of another’s eye requires a very careful steady hand. But, if you can’t see it because a bigger material is in your eye, then you will not only not be able to achieve your goal, but you risk damaging that person. This is the effect of judging according to appearance.
Another word to add that adds to this description of judgment that is not commended by Jesus is the hypocritical judge. This is not to say that one must be perfect or flawless before using “righteous judgment.” But, we must humbly recognize and acknowledge our own faults and seek the removal of sin in our own lives before being so willing to remove it from others. So Jesus is not saying that we are not to judge under any circumstances. He is saying we must consider focus on our own sin before considering others. So, He said, “First take the log out of your own eye, then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye” (Matthew 78:5).
It is very common for us to note how “terrible” some people’s behavior is, but fail to notice our own shortcomings and sometimes, the very same behavior. We often inflate and magnify the faults of others while at the same time underestimating our own. Jesus urges us to look at ourselves before we take a look at others. Before even attempting to correct someone else, we must first deal with any areas of disobedience in our life. Because if we are committing the same sin, we will be judged for it in the same way and degree as we gave it.
Matthew 7:1-2 reads, “Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” We have no business judging the motives of others and passing a final judgment on others. God, alone, has the right and ability to carry out that task. We will all stand to be judged by God (1 Cor. 5:10) in the future and He will be using the same standard of measurement we used to evaluate others when He judges us. It means if you are gracious in dealing with the failures and shortcomings of other people, you will also receive mercy when the Lord evaluates your life at the judgment seat of Christ. After examining ourselves, it is then acceptable to note the fault of others.