1 Corinthians 4:5
Verse
Context
Servants of Christ
4My conscience is clear, but that does not vindicate me. It is the Lord who judges me.5Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Judge nothing before the time - God, the righteous Judge, will determine every thing shortly: it is his province alone to search the heart, and bring to light the hidden things of darkness. If you be so pure and upright in your conduct, if what you have been doing in these divisions, etc., be right in his sight, then shall you have praise for the same; if otherwise, yourselves are most concerned. Some refer the praise to St. Paul and his companions: Then shall every one of us apostles have praise of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Disproving the judicial power claimed by the Romish priesthood in the confessional. Therefore--as the Lord is the sole Decider or Dijudicator. judge--not the same Greek word as in Co1 4:3-4, where the meaning is to approve of or decide on, the merits of one's case. Here all judgments in general are forbidden, which would, on our part, presumptuously forestall God's prerogative of final judgment. Lord--Jesus Christ, whose "ministers" we are (Co1 4:1), and who is to be the judge (Joh 5:22, Joh 5:27; Act 10:42; Act 17:31). manifest . . . hearts--Our judgments now (as those of the Corinthians respecting their teachers) are necessarily defective; as we only see the outward act, we cannot see the motives of "hearts." "Faithfulness" (Co1 4:2) will hereby be estimated, and the "Lord" will "justify," or the reverse (Co1 4:4), according to the state of the heart. then shall every man have praise-- (Co1 3:8; Sa1 26:23; Mat 25:21, Mat 25:23, Mat 25:28). Rather, "his due praise," not exaggerated praise, such as the Corinthians heaped on favorite teachers; "the praise" (so the Greek) due for acts estimated by the motives. "Then," not before: therefore wait till then (Jam 5:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Therefore judge nothing before the time,.... This is said to prevent rash and precipitate judgment, and agrees with that well know Jewish maxim, , "be slow in judgment" (s); not hasty to pass sentence; it is best to leave things to the great day of account, than to be free in censuring one another. There is a time "fixed" for the awful judgment, though of that day and hour knows no man: judge nothing until the Lord come; who at the fixed time will certainly come to judgment, and that suddenly, at unawares, in an hour no man knows of: who will bring to light the hidden things of darkness; meaning not so much vices, immoralities, wickedness of all sorts committed in the dark, and which it is a shame to speak of; but those hidden things of dishonesty, those secret arts and private methods which false teachers have made use of to conceal themselves, and carry on their base designs to the injury of truth, the souls of men, and the cause of Christ: and will make manifest the counsels of the heart; what were the views and intentions, the aims and ends of these men in taking upon them to be preachers of the word; when it will appear that these were not the glory of God, and the good of the souls of men, but filthy lucre, popular applause, or some such mercenary view, and sinister end. And then shall every man have praise of God. Every regenerated soul; everyone that is a Jew inwardly; everyone that has the circumcision of the Spirit; and particularly every faithful minister, who is more especially designed; to whom it will be said, "well done good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord". The apostle, in these words, has respect to the false teachers who sought the praise of men, and not the honour which comes from God; and which the true ministers of the word will have another day, however despised and criticised by men now. (s) T. Bab Sanhed, fol. 7. 2. & Pirke Abot, c. 1. sect. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 don’t make judgments about anyone: Only the Lord can fully know a person’s heart, and when he returns, he will judge. Paul took God’s judgment of his ministry very seriously (see 2 Cor 5:9-10; Phil 2:16; 1 Thes 2:19-20; cp. 2 Cor 1:14).
1 Corinthians 4:5
Servants of Christ
4My conscience is clear, but that does not vindicate me. It is the Lord who judges me.5Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"a.w. Tozer on Judgment"
By Leonard Ravenhill16K00:451SA 16:7PRO 16:2MAT 6:11CO 4:5HEB 4:12This sermon delves into the importance of examining our motives behind our actions, emphasizing that we will be judged not just for what we have done but for the reasons and motives behind our deeds. It highlights the concern of missed opportunities and the significance of understanding the true intentions and heart behind our actions.
The Voice of Gods Judgement
By A.W. Tozer4.8K46:24Gods JudgementMAT 6:33ROM 14:121CO 3:131CO 4:52CO 5:102TI 4:1HEB 9:27In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the talents from Matthew 25. He emphasizes that each person is given different abilities and resources according to their own ability. The preacher warns that there will come a time when everyone will have to give an account of their deeds and how they used their talents. He emphasizes the importance of self-judgment and not relying on others or external factors to determine one's spiritual standing. The preacher also acknowledges the challenges and darkness of the times we live in but encourages the congregation to see them as opportunities for testing and proving their faith, just like Daniel and his companions in Babylon.
"Book of Remembrance" by Leonard Ravenhill
By Compilations4.2K05:17PRO 10:20MAL 3:16MAT 12:361CO 3:121CO 4:52CO 5:101TH 5:171PE 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life that is devoted to God, comparing our actions and words to materials like wood, hay, stubble, silver, gold, and precious stones. It challenges believers to consider the quality of their devotion, speech, and actions, as they will be tested by fire. The speaker highlights the significance of prayer, the purity of our words, and the eternal impact of our lives. It calls for a deep commitment to God, living with an awareness of eternity and the accountability we will face before God.
Judgement Seat 1-31-91 - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill3.7K28:48Judgment Seat Of ChristJHN 3:16ROM 14:121CO 4:52CO 5:10EPH 2:8REV 14:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of true worship and warns against engaging in empty rituals. He highlights the power of the Holy Spirit and recounts a personal experience of witnessing a woman who was truly blessed by the presence of the Holy Ghost. The preacher then shifts to discussing the impending judgment that every person will face before God. He emphasizes the magnitude of this judgment, mentioning the countless individuals who will be present and the absence of anyone to help or intercede on behalf of the judged. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the apostle Paul's experiences and the vision of heaven described in the book of Revelation. The preacher emphasizes the need for repentance and warns against relying on worldly governments or optimism to escape judgment.
Cfo Life From Frustration to Adventure
By Norman Grubb2.9K53:36MissionsEXO 16:35MAT 3:16MAT 6:25ROM 8:281CO 4:51PE 4:101JN 2:12In this sermon, the speaker reflects on their mission and the challenges they face in their faith journey. They discuss the importance of having faith and trusting in God's provision, even in difficult times. The speaker emphasizes the need to replace fear with God's courage and hate with God's love. They also explore the concept of life and how it is manifested through the interrelation of opposites. The speaker concludes by highlighting the role of God in sending both good and evil into our lives for His purposes, using the example of Calvary.
The Final Judgement
By Zac Poonen2.4K56:29Judgement SeatACT 13:27ROM 2:16ROM 14:121CO 4:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life that aligns with God's blueprint for us. He warns that on the day of judgment, all our actions, thoughts, and motives will be revealed, even the secrets we have hidden from others. The speaker highlights that many who are considered great in the eyes of others may be shocked to see the truth of their private lives and how they handled their resources. The sermon emphasizes the need to live in accordance with God's Word and to be mindful of our actions, as everything is recorded and will be judged by God.
Purified by Leonard Ravenhill
By Compilations1.5K07:18EXO 28:15PRO 10:20MAL 3:161CO 3:121CO 4:52TI 2:20JAS 4:81PE 1:71PE 4:17REV 20:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life devoted to God, comparing the value of our actions and words to wood, hay, stubble, silver, gold, and precious stones. It challenges believers to invest in what truly matters, such as devotion to God, purity in speech, and a deep prayer life, rather than seeking worldly entertainment or approval. The speaker highlights the accountability every individual will face before God, urging a commitment to a life that reflects true holiness and dedication to Christ.
Freedom From Witchcraft and Unclean Spirits
By Emanuel Esh1.2K50:41WitchcraftISA 58:10MAT 6:23JHN 1:4ACT 26:18ROM 13:121CO 4:51PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the book of John and focuses on the theme of light and darkness. He emphasizes that darkness is afraid of light and that the only thing that can overcome darkness is light. The preacher shares a personal childhood memory of visiting his great-grandparents and highlights the importance of repentance and allowing the light of Christ to expose and drive away darkness in our lives. He also references the resurrection of Jesus and how it overcame sin, death, and hell, shining the eternal light and glory into the hearts of believers. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the specific assignment given to believers to open the eyes of others, turn them from darkness to light, and preach the light of Christ.
Judging, Being Judged, and the Marks of a Spiritual Minister
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K28:59JudgingGEN 17:1PSA 121:4LUK 19:131CO 3:101CO 4:51CO 9:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the apostle Paul and his readiness for anything. He emphasizes the importance of being ready for God's calling and being dedicated to doing His will. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to refrain from judging others and instead focus on praying for a ministry that is unflinchingly committed to God. Additionally, the preacher warns against false apostles and the dangers of criticism, urging believers to be cautious and remain faithful to the foundation laid by wise builders like Paul.
The Insanity of Sin - Part 1
By Joy Dawson1.2K41:16SinEXO 20:5DEU 24:16JHN 8:11ACT 24:16ROM 6:231CO 4:52TI 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a clear conscience before God and men. He shares a story about a man who sent telegrams to influential people, causing eight of them to leave town out of fear. The preacher highlights the insanity of sin and urges listeners to come to their right mind and sin no more. He explains that sin is a choice and that we cannot blame others for our own sins. The sermon is filled with references to scripture, emphasizing the authority of the Word of God in teaching about sin.
A People Who Judge Themselves
By Zac Poonen9091:03:29PRO 9:10ROM 15:31CO 4:52CO 5:10PHP 3:13HEB 1:91PE 4:171JN 3:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of judging oneself first before judging others, focusing on the need to live a life that pleases God by examining hidden areas of darkness and motives. It highlights the call to love righteousness and hate iniquity, seeking to be a new creature in Christ who does not live for self but for the Lord. The speaker urges believers to pursue a life of joy and freedom from sin, understanding the fear of the Lord and the significance of Christ's sacrifice in transforming our lives.
Can We Judge Our Church
By Shane Idleman82244:16MAT 7:1ROM 14:131CO 4:5GAL 6:1EPH 4:29COL 3:13JAS 4:111PE 4:81JN 4:20This sermon focuses on the importance of not judging others, emphasizing the need to remove the plank from our own eye before critiquing others. It delves into the impact of critical attitudes, unrealistic expectations, and preference influencing decisions within the church. The message highlights the significance of love, grace, and encouragement in driving motives, and the need for protection against gossip and attacks, especially within the Christian community.
Church Live Re-Visited: Session Three - Part 2
By Ron Bailey80423:581CO 4:5HEB 4:12This sermon delves into the concept of judging others and the intricate nature of discernment. It explores the difference between assessing, appraising, and condemning, emphasizing the importance of God's judgment over human judgment. The speaker highlights the role of God's Word in penetrating and discerning the thoughts and intents of the heart, guiding believers to distinguish between mere thoughts and true intentions. The sermon also touches on the need for God to be the ultimate judge in our lives, urging listeners to seek His verdict rather than relying on human assessments.
Watch Your Inner Life
By Zac Poonen71130:08GEN 39:71SA 16:7ECC 7:9ISA 11:2MAT 5:201CO 4:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of the inner life before God, highlighting how God looks at the heart while man looks at the outward appearance. It contrasts the Old Testament focus on external actions with the New Testament emphasis on inward transformation. Jesus teaches that true righteousness surpasses external religious practices and requires purity of heart. The message warns against sins of the heart like anger and lust, stressing the need for genuine repentance and a deep reverence for God's holiness.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 25
By Zac Poonen60825:01ISA 11:3MAT 7:1LUK 15:30JHN 7:24JHN 8:151CO 4:5HEB 9:271PE 4:15This sermon delves into the importance of refraining from judging others, emphasizing the need to focus on self-reflection and righteous judgment within our spheres of responsibility. It highlights Jesus' teachings on not condemning others, the dangers of passing premature judgments, and the significance of waiting for God's timing to reveal the full truth about individuals. The sermon also explores the reasons behind Jesus' command not to judge, pointing out the hidden aspects of people's lives, motives, and the necessity of avoiding hypocrisy in our assessments.
Why We Should Desire Eternal Rewards
By Mike Bickle1756:25Eternal RewardsKingdom Of GodMAT 5:19MAT 6:19MAT 16:27LUK 6:35JHN 17:24ROM 8:181CO 4:52CO 4:17HEB 11:6REV 22:12Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of desiring eternal rewards, explaining that our earthly lives serve as an internship for our future roles in the Millennial Kingdom. He highlights that Jesus taught extensively about rewards, urging believers to seek greatness in God's sight rather than in the eyes of men. Bickle encourages a shift from a passive attitude towards eternal rewards to an active pursuit of a deeper relationship with God, as our heart responses now will determine our assignments in the age to come. He reassures that even our weaknesses are accounted for by God, and every moment spent in devotion is valuable and remembered. Ultimately, the sermon calls for believers to align their lives with the eternal perspective of their calling and rewards.
David's Revelation of God's Heart
By Mike Bickle161:02:45God's HeartIdentity in Christ1SA 16:7PSA 17:8PSA 18:19PSA 31:10PSA 69:5PSA 130:3MAT 25:21LUK 19:171CO 4:5EPH 4:18Mike Bickle emphasizes David's profound revelation of God's heart, particularly through the pivotal moment when God corrects Samuel's perception of worthiness. This revelation, found in 1 Samuel 16:7, teaches that God evaluates individuals based on their hearts rather than outward appearances or accomplishments. David's understanding of this truth shaped his identity and ministry, allowing him to see himself as beloved by God despite being overlooked by his family. Bickle highlights that this paradigm shift not only transformed David's self-view but also how he perceived others, encouraging believers to embrace their identity as God's beloved and to measure success by the condition of their hearts.
Judgment-Seat of Christ
By Harry Ironside0JudgmentAccountabilityJHN 5:22JHN 5:24ACT 17:31ROM 14:101CO 3:111CO 4:52CO 5:91PE 4:5REV 20:11REV 22:12Harry Ironside emphasizes the significance of the judgment-seat of Christ, where all believers will stand to give an account of their lives and works. He explains that while believers are exempt from condemnation, they will still be evaluated based on their actions, whether good or bad, in light of their faith in Christ. Ironside contrasts this judgment with the great white throne judgment for the unsaved, highlighting the importance of living a life that honors God. He encourages believers to focus on building their lives with eternal values, represented by gold, silver, and precious stones, rather than transient works that will be consumed. Ultimately, he reassures that every believer will receive praise from God, even if some works are burned away, as long as they have served with sincerity and humility.
A Letter on "The Praise of Men"
By John Nelson Darby0PrideHumilityPSA 115:1PRO 29:5MAT 23:12ROM 12:31CO 4:5GAL 6:3PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5REV 5:9John Nelson Darby addresses the dangers of pride and the misguided praise of men, emphasizing that such flattery can lead to spiritual harm and distract from true communion with God. He warns that pride is a persistent enemy that can obscure our understanding of our own spiritual state and that the most genuine Christians are often those who remain unnoticed and humble. Darby encourages believers to focus their praise solely on God, as He alone is worthy of honor, and to strive for humility by esteeming others above themselves. He concludes by urging his friend to refrain from elevating him in any way, preferring to be recognized simply as a brother in Christ.
Design or Intention Constitutes Character
By Charles Finney0IntentionsMoral Character1SA 16:7PSA 28:4PRO 16:2JER 17:10MAT 5:8ROM 8:271CO 4:52CO 5:10GAL 6:7COL 3:23Charles Finney emphasizes that a person's moral character is defined by their ultimate intention rather than their actions or subordinate intentions. He explains the distinction between intention and volition, asserting that true moral character lies in the supreme intention of the mind, which should be to glorify God. Finney warns that intentions can be sinful or holy, and that the ultimate aim of one's actions must be disinterestedly benevolent to be considered holy. He concludes that God will judge individuals based on their intentions, not merely their actions, highlighting the importance of self-examination in understanding one's true character.
Epistle 228
By George Fox0Unity in the SpiritFruits Of The SpiritMAT 7:31CO 4:51CO 9:18GAL 5:19GAL 5:22EPH 4:30PHP 1:51TH 5:19REV 2:4George Fox addresses his friends, urging them to remain grounded in the power of God and to avoid the pitfalls of judgment and division that arise from the flesh. He warns against high-mindedness and the tendency to focus on the faults of others while neglecting one's own shortcomings. Fox emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and the fruits of the Spirit, contrasting them with the destructive behaviors that stem from the flesh. He calls for a return to their first love and the true fellowship that comes from living in the power of God, encouraging them to reject gossip and strife. Ultimately, he reassures them that by dwelling in God's power, they can maintain peace and grow in their spiritual lives.
Joshua Chapter 13 the Trans-Jordanic Tribes
By A.B. Simpson0ReconciliationUnselfish ServiceJOS 22:11CO 4:5A.B. Simpson explores the lessons from Joshua Chapter 13, focusing on the two and a half tribes that chose their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan. He emphasizes their unselfish service in helping their brethren conquer the promised land, showcasing their devotion and the importance of putting God first. Simpson highlights the misunderstandings that arose from their actions, illustrating the need for meekness and reconciliation among believers. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to seek God's presence in their lives and to be peacemakers, reflecting Christ's love and grace.
Help for the Day!
By J.R. Miller0Grace and StrengthChristian LivingPSA 90:8ISA 40:31MAT 10:42JHN 13:34ROM 8:281CO 4:52CO 12:9PHP 4:112TI 3:16HEB 12:11J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects Christ's love and service, suggesting that we need not keep records of our good deeds, as God will remember them. He warns against the dangers of secret sins that can undermine our spiritual health and encourages believers to embrace their burdens as opportunities for growth. Miller also highlights that true Christian living involves self-denial and the pursuit of holiness in everyday life, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with God. He reassures that God's grace is sufficient for our needs and that our struggles can lead to spiritual maturity and beauty. The sermon calls for a life of love, service, and reliance on God's strength.
Judgment of the Believer's Works
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 3:18JHN 17:23ROM 5:1ROM 14:101CO 1:301CO 4:51CO 11:322CO 5:10EPH 1:6EPH 6:8COL 2:10COL 2:132TI 4:8HEB 10:14REV 20:11REV 22:12Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the biblical teachings on judgment and rewards for believers. He emphasizes that the child of God, under grace, is assured not to come into judgment for their sins, as Christ has already borne the penalty for all sin past, present, and future. While believers are beyond condemnation and accepted in Christ's perfection, they will still give an account of their daily life and service before the judgment seat of Christ. The judgment seat of Christ evaluates the believer's works for rewards or loss of rewards, separate from their eternal salvation, which is secure through Christ's finished work.
The Trans-Jordanic Tribes
By A.B. Simpson0ReconciliationUnselfish ServiceJOS 22:1PSA 133:1MAT 5:9MAT 20:26ROM 12:101CO 4:5GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 2:3JAS 1:19A.B. Simpson emphasizes the lessons from the Trans-Jordanic tribes, who, despite choosing a portion outside the promised land, exemplified unselfish service by aiding their brethren in battle. Their commitment to God and their willingness to sacrifice for others serve as a model for Christian workers today. Simpson highlights the importance of putting God first, as demonstrated by the tribes' act of building an altar as a witness to their faith. He also addresses the theme of misunderstanding and the need for meekness in resolving conflicts, ultimately leading to reconciliation and unity among believers. The sermon concludes with a call to embody the spirit of peacemaking and service in our lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Judge nothing before the time - God, the righteous Judge, will determine every thing shortly: it is his province alone to search the heart, and bring to light the hidden things of darkness. If you be so pure and upright in your conduct, if what you have been doing in these divisions, etc., be right in his sight, then shall you have praise for the same; if otherwise, yourselves are most concerned. Some refer the praise to St. Paul and his companions: Then shall every one of us apostles have praise of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Disproving the judicial power claimed by the Romish priesthood in the confessional. Therefore--as the Lord is the sole Decider or Dijudicator. judge--not the same Greek word as in Co1 4:3-4, where the meaning is to approve of or decide on, the merits of one's case. Here all judgments in general are forbidden, which would, on our part, presumptuously forestall God's prerogative of final judgment. Lord--Jesus Christ, whose "ministers" we are (Co1 4:1), and who is to be the judge (Joh 5:22, Joh 5:27; Act 10:42; Act 17:31). manifest . . . hearts--Our judgments now (as those of the Corinthians respecting their teachers) are necessarily defective; as we only see the outward act, we cannot see the motives of "hearts." "Faithfulness" (Co1 4:2) will hereby be estimated, and the "Lord" will "justify," or the reverse (Co1 4:4), according to the state of the heart. then shall every man have praise-- (Co1 3:8; Sa1 26:23; Mat 25:21, Mat 25:23, Mat 25:28). Rather, "his due praise," not exaggerated praise, such as the Corinthians heaped on favorite teachers; "the praise" (so the Greek) due for acts estimated by the motives. "Then," not before: therefore wait till then (Jam 5:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Therefore judge nothing before the time,.... This is said to prevent rash and precipitate judgment, and agrees with that well know Jewish maxim, , "be slow in judgment" (s); not hasty to pass sentence; it is best to leave things to the great day of account, than to be free in censuring one another. There is a time "fixed" for the awful judgment, though of that day and hour knows no man: judge nothing until the Lord come; who at the fixed time will certainly come to judgment, and that suddenly, at unawares, in an hour no man knows of: who will bring to light the hidden things of darkness; meaning not so much vices, immoralities, wickedness of all sorts committed in the dark, and which it is a shame to speak of; but those hidden things of dishonesty, those secret arts and private methods which false teachers have made use of to conceal themselves, and carry on their base designs to the injury of truth, the souls of men, and the cause of Christ: and will make manifest the counsels of the heart; what were the views and intentions, the aims and ends of these men in taking upon them to be preachers of the word; when it will appear that these were not the glory of God, and the good of the souls of men, but filthy lucre, popular applause, or some such mercenary view, and sinister end. And then shall every man have praise of God. Every regenerated soul; everyone that is a Jew inwardly; everyone that has the circumcision of the Spirit; and particularly every faithful minister, who is more especially designed; to whom it will be said, "well done good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord". The apostle, in these words, has respect to the false teachers who sought the praise of men, and not the honour which comes from God; and which the true ministers of the word will have another day, however despised and criticised by men now. (s) T. Bab Sanhed, fol. 7. 2. & Pirke Abot, c. 1. sect. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 don’t make judgments about anyone: Only the Lord can fully know a person’s heart, and when he returns, he will judge. Paul took God’s judgment of his ministry very seriously (see 2 Cor 5:9-10; Phil 2:16; 1 Thes 2:19-20; cp. 2 Cor 1:14).