Understanding Condemnation
Finally, “Krino” is also translated “to condemn”. Since we can so easily move from discernment to condemnation – especially when we don’t discern in love – we need to understand what condemnation is.
First of all, it’s not the same as conviction. Both condemnation and conviction bring pain and sorrow, but they bring different kinds…
For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.
2 Corinthians 7:10 (New Living Translation)
Too many well-meaning people try to bring “conviction” but really they bring condemnation, because it is not their role to convict. Jesus said:
But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me. Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more. Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged.
John 16:7-11 (New Living Translation)
When should you condemn? Never.
Don’t condemn those inside the family…
Who are you to condemn someone else’s servants? They are responsible to the Lord, so let him judge whether they are right or wrong. And with the Lord’s help, they will do what is right and will receive his approval. Romans 14:4 (New Living Translation)
Don’t condemn those Jesus doesn’t condemn…
“God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. ?John 3:17 (New Living Translation)
You’re job is not to condemn. It’s not even to bring conviction. You’re job is to show the Father’s love that’s what you’ll be judged by both in this life and the next (Matthew 25:34-40).
We’ll get back to discussing How to Judge and Not Be A Jerk in the next posting…
Trevor Lund
Expectancy Ministries
My name is Trevor Lund. I'm a Christian Speaker, Author and Lead Dreamer for Expectancy Ministries. I love to impart hope and empower destiny with creative communication, memorable motivation and applicable inspiration.
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