We are told not to judge others, but in verse 15 we are also encouraged to identify those who aren’t really disciples, but say they are. (false teachers). What’s the difference? One obvious difference is WHO you are making a judgment about. In the beginning of the chapter we are cautioned not to make judgments about sins in the lives of other believers. In the second passage Jesus is talking about unbelievers who are pretending to be leaders and teachers.
Since we are also told not to use what is holy on those who are unholy, we understand that there is a precedent to decide who is really a Christian and who isn’t. Given that, we need to know how to make that judgment. Again an obvious way is by what they say (if they confess Jesus as Lord, that’s a good indication). And a second way is by their fruit. Every Christian will display the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) in some way. So, don’t sit in judgment of other Christians just because they aren’t doing what you are doing. But if someone who is leading or teaching comes to the church, they should absolutely be evaluated.
Because of what we are teaching on in the church right now, verses 21 and 24 leap off the page at me. God isn’t going to accept everyone who says they are a Christian into heaven…only those who obey Him. And we cannot obey Jesus without the constant help of the Holy Spirit. If you could, then Christ wouldn’t have sent Him. We need day to day help to remain obedient. However, with the help of the Holy Spirit, we are powerful and can remain steadfast. There is no reason to believe that at person who is operating under the Holy Spirit’s power will ever remain in sin.
Praise the Lord!
PR