Primary Scripture
Matthew 7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.
Plain explanation
YAHUSHA forbids hypocritical judgment, not Scripture-based correction of sin and false teaching.
Common assumption
Do not judge means do not correct sin or false doctrine.
Scripture-defined meaning
Matthew 7:1 rebukes hypocritical judgment, not righteous discernment. The same witness commands correction, testing, and judgment according to truth rather than appearance.
Confirming witnesses
- Immediate explanation: Matthew 7:2-5,15-20
The chapter condemns hypocritical judgment while still requiring self-correction and discernment of false prophets by their fruit. - Lexical usage: John 7:24
YAHUSHA uses the same judgment category to command righteous judgment instead of judgment by appearance. - Prophetic purpose: Leviticus 19:15-17
Torah forbids partial judgment while requiring righteous judgment and loving rebuke. - Apostolic confirmation: 1 Corinthians 5:12-13
Paul requires the assembly to judge open sin within its own fellowship, showing that all correction is not forbidden.
Takeaway
Do not use 'judge not' to silence Scriptural correction of sin or false doctrine.
Context reflection
Where do you need discernment without hypocrisy or pride?