Leader Guide
The topic of judging! Not many things get us fired up like being judged. We all judge people, many times while not even knowing the circumstances, and yet we hate being judged by others. What does scripture say about this topic? This week we start a new series called Judged. In this first week, we are specifically considering self-righteous judgement.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leaders: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to knowing more, exploring. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. What's a ridiculous reason you’ve judged someone-but would never admit out loud...until now? If you had to judge people based on just one ridiculous trait (like how they hold a fork, or their favorite pizza topping), what would it be?
2. Read Matthew 7:1-2,12. Do you consider yourself a judgy person? Recount a time you judged a situation incorrectly or someone judged you incorrectly? When it comes to being judged, how would you like to be judged?
Leaders: Try not to go in the direction of confronting sin as we will discuss that later in the series. Often times we have a self-righteous mind set. We think that we are doing most things better than others. That others’ sin is much worse than ours so therefore we can pass judgement. The scripture is clear that we will be judged with the same standard that we judge others. In addition, the way we communicate judgement will also be given to us. Are my words gentle, compassionate, and understanding? Or, am I loud, indiscreet and condemning? Verse 12 reminds us to treat others like we would want to be treated and that includes judging.
3. Read Matthew 7:3-5, Romans 2:1-4. What is Jesus asking us to do in Matthew 7? Why is it important to examine our own lives before confronting others? In Romans 2:4 how does God treat us?
Leaders: Sometimes our judgements may be true. Maybe your boss, coworker, teacher, friend is making a bad decision. Jesus reminds us we must examine our own lives first before we can help another. We are also reminded that often times we are doing the same things, we all have a log in our own eye, but often times miss it. So, we must put the judge's gavel down and pick up a mirror. Besides, if God does call us to confront some “speck” we can do so with more compassion when we remember our own great shortcomings and God’s big grace and forgiveness for them and us. Don’t forget God has been so kind, tolerant and patient with you and me.
4. Read Psalm 139:23-24, John 3:17. Pause and pray the words from the passage Psalm 139:23-24 together in your group. Why is Praying Psalm 139 difficult or freeing for you? How can we practice being open to God’s correction in our daily lives? How can we reflect God’s love and grace in our interactions with others?
Leaders: Can you imagine if all you had ever experienced was judgment from the church. “Know my heart, know my anxious thoughts, lead me on the path to everlasting life” those words are freeing! Maybe you or someone in your Life Group does feel that way today. If you can, please take a moment as a member of the Church to apologize on behalf of the family of God: “I’m so sorry if we have failed you in that way. This place needs to show grace, mercy and love.” Jesus wants us to show His love to those that are struggling, just like He showed us. If God did not send His Son to judge the world, then how can we?
Action Step: This week ask God to search your heart and point out anything that is offensive to Him-in your work, family, friendships, parenting, marriage, leadership or any other area in your life. Biblical judgement starts with putting the gavel down and picking up a mirror. Ask God to help you love others like He loved you.