Matthew 7:2

Context

Matthew 7:2 is a foundational verse within Jesus' profound Sermon on the Mount, specifically following His direct command in Matthew 7:1, "Judge not, that ye be not judged." This verse elaborates on the consequence of judging others, establishing a divine principle of reciprocity. It sets the stage for the subsequent warnings against hypocrisy, where one focuses on the "mote" in a brother's eye while ignoring the "beam" in one's own (Matthew 7:3-5). The cultural context of Jesus' teaching often involved strict societal and religious judgments, making this a radical call to self-examination and mercy.

Key Themes

• Divine Reciprocity: The primary message is that the standard of judgment we apply to others will be the standard applied to us by God. This is not merely a human consequence but a divine principle of justice. Our actions, particularly our critical attitudes, have direct implications for how we ourselves will be treated by the ultimate Judge.
• The Standard of Mercy: While not forbidding all discernment, the verse strongly cautions against harsh, hypocritical, or uncharitable judgment. It encourages a merciful and gracious approach, understanding that such a measure will be returned to us. This principle is also powerfully echoed in Luke 6:38, which adds the concept of a "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over."
• Self-Examination: The verse inherently calls for introspection. Before judging others, one must consider the measure by which they themselves would wish to be judged. It highlights the danger of spiritual arrogance and self-righteousness.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV text uses powerful imagery:

• "Judgment" (Greek: krima or krisis): Refers to the act or result of judging, a verdict, or a condemnation. It implies a critical evaluation, often with an accompanying sentence. The phrase "with what judgment ye judge" emphasizes the quality and severity of the judgment being rendered.
• "Measure" (Greek: metron): Signifies a standard, a rule, or an instrument for measuring. It speaks to the exact quantity or quality of something.
• "Mete" (Greek: metreo): Means "to measure out," "to deal out," or "to apportion." It denotes the act of applying a standard.

The passive voice in "ye shall be judged" and "it shall be measured to you again" implies divine agency. It is God who will apply the standard we have used, underscoring that His justice is perfectly aligned with our own demonstrated character and conduct towards others.

Practical Application

Matthew 7:2 has profound implications for daily Christian living:

• Cultivate Mercy: It urges believers to be compassionate and understanding, extending grace rather than condemnation to others. Remembering that we all stand in need of God's mercy should temper our inclination to judge harshly.
• Practice Self-Reflection: Before criticizing others, we are challenged to examine our own hearts, motives, and actions. This fosters humility and helps us recognize our own imperfections.
• Avoid Hypocrisy: The verse serves as a powerful deterrent against spiritual pride and hypocrisy, reminding us that God sees our hearts and will hold us accountable for the standards we impose on others.
• Promote Forgiveness: By choosing to forgive and overlook faults, we set a precedent for how we hope to be treated by both God and others. This principle encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of mercy, remembering that 'mercy rejoiceth against judgment' (James 2:13).