190 James: Who's to Judge?

All of us have taken on the role of judge. We’re not elected by the citizens or confirmed by the congress. We are self-appointed judges. We place ourselves on the bench and proceed to pass judgment on the observed behaviors of our family, friends, and fellow believers.

James has some strong words to say about this tendency, giving a blunt warning to all of us.

First, he speaks against slander. ( vs. 11a).  The Greek word is...katalaleo = to talk down. 

Slander is careless, critical, demeaning, derogatory speech directed against others. It impugns another’s character and smears their reputation, lowering them in the eyes of others. 

Then James warns against judging others. (vs. 11b). Slander is spoken, but judgment is in your heart. Judgment snubs, ignores, dismisses, and ultimately, judgment condemns.

The Greek word used here for “judge” is krino = to assume the office of a judge. But James makes is clear in vs. 12 that there is only one judge and that’s God Himself. To judge another is to assume a role that is reserved for God alone.

In verse 11, James states that when we judge, we “speak against the law.” What law is that? He tells us earlier in his letter: “ If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing right.” (2:8)

We might not think that to slander or judge our neighbors or brothers and sisters in the faith is such a big deal.  But James would suggest that it is one of the most damnable of all sins in that we violate the royal law and infringe upon the privilege that is God’s alone.

Alan Redpath developed what he called his “code of conversation.” When you’re tempted to speak in slander or judgment, stop and THINK.

T - Is it true?

H - Is it helpful?

I - Is it inspiring?

N – Is it necessary?

K – Is it kind?

Text: James 4:11-12 

Originally recorded on May 9, 2010, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN