In Matthew 7, we see Jesus address the destructive nature of judging others, a behavior that can be as damaging as cancer to relationships. In this passage, Jesus calls His followers to avoid harsh, hasty, and hypocritical judgments. Instead, He urges us to prioritize addressing our own sins before helping others with theirs. The tendency to be critical and judgmental is deeply rooted in human nature. Jesus warns against this toxic behavior, which can lead to broken marriages and divided churches.

Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7:1-5 emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, humility, honesty and mercy. He uses the metaphor of a log in one's eye to illustrate the absurdity of judging others while ignoring one's own faults. This teaching is not a prohibition against discernment or addressing sin, but a call to avoid a fault-finding spirit. Jesus Himself called out sin, but He did so with the intent of bringing people to repentance and salvation, not condemnation.

The passage also highlights the need for discernment in sharing the gospel. Jesus advises against casting pearls before swine, meaning we should be wise in how we share the message of the kingdom and how much time and energy we invest on behalf of those who show no interest. This requires both elements of truth and grace, recognizing that not everyone will be receptive to the gospel. Sinclair Ferguson called this principle taught here “The wisdom of appropriate activity”

Ultimately, Jesus calls us to love one another as He has loved us. By marveling at God's grace and mercy towards us, we can counter a critical spirit and cultivate a heart of compassion towards others.