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).
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.
Marks of a True Conversion
By George Whitefield2ISA 45:23JHN 19:13ACT 12:21ACT 18:12ACT 25:6ACT 25:10ROM 14:101CO 4:51CO 6:22CO 5:10Wayne Barber explains the significance of the Bema Seat judgment in Romans 14, emphasizing that all believers will stand before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account of their lives on earth. The Bema Seat refers to a raised platform where judgments are made, and believers will be recompensed for their deeds, whether good or bad. This judgment is not for condemnation but for evaluating believers' service and works. The focus is on accountability for how Christians lived and treated others, impacting their rewards in eternity.
A Farewell Sermon
By Jonathan Edwards1DEU 33:8ISA 49:4JER 6:29DAN 12:3MAT 22:13LUK 14:16ROM 2:51CO 4:52CO 1:14GAL 4:13HEB 13:17Jonathan Edwards delivers a farewell sermon at the First Church in Northampton, MA, emphasizing the accountability of ministers and their congregations before Christ's tribunal on the day of judgment. He highlights the importance of ministers approving themselves to their conscience, their hearers, and ultimately to their Judge. Edwards explains how ministers and their people, though separated in this world, will meet again before Christ for a final judgment, where their actions, controversies, and treatment of each other will be examined and judged. He urges the congregation, including professors of godliness, those under awakenings, young people, and children, to consider their eternal destiny, the impact of his ministry on their lives, and the need for sincere repentance and faith in Christ before the impending judgment day.
On the Importance of Self-Knowledge
By Thomas Reade1MAT 7:21LUK 9:551CO 4:5GAL 6:3JAS 1:22Thomas Reade preaches on the importance of self-knowledge, urging believers to examine their spirits, motives, and intentions deeply. He emphasizes the significance of divine teaching and self-examination in understanding one's true nature. Reade highlights the need for sincerity in various aspects of life, such as attending religious ordinances, giving to the poor, discussing Gospel truths, performing daily duties, responding to persecution, and handling criticism of the Gospel. The sermon underscores the necessity of humility, love, and purity of intention in all thoughts, words, and actions, seeking to glorify God and advance the spiritual welfare of others.
The Trans-Jordanic Tribes
By A.B. Simpson1ReconciliationUnselfish 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.
Do Not Bear Proper Fruits
By Harmon A. Baldwin0PRO 16:2MAT 7:16MAT 7:20ROM 14:41CO 4:5GAL 6:4JAS 2:171PE 1:221JN 1:71JN 3:18Harmon A. Baldwin addresses the objection that many professors of holiness do not bear the fruits of holiness, comparing it to the fallacy of assuming all people speak English or German just because those encountered do. He explains that some who claim holiness may lack proper evidence due to misunderstanding, lack of knowledge, or over-conscientiousness, leading to a deficiency in bearing fruits. Baldwin also highlights that some may be cleansed but mistaken in requirements, emphasizing that God purifies motives and allows room for growth in grace. Additionally, he points out the error in expecting more from holiness professing individuals than God does and acknowledges the presence of hypocrites within the holiness profession.
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.
Beware Vain and Worldly Knowledge
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 25:9PRO 2:6JHN 14:261CO 4:5JAS 1:5Thomas a Kempis preaches about the importance of focusing on the teachings of Christ rather than the words of men, emphasizing the need for virtue over mere knowledge. He highlights the necessity of humbling oneself, mortifying vices, and seeking eternal truths through Christ's teachings. Kempis warns against being distracted by worldly knowledge and urges a deep love and ardor for Christ above all else, as He is the ultimate Teacher and Truth.
That the Outward Manifestations of Them, and the Relation Persons Give of Them, Are Very Affecting and Pleasing to the Godly, Is No Sign
By Jonathan Edwards01SA 16:7ISA 11:3MAT 13:26ROM 14:61CO 4:51PE 5:12REV 2:17Jonathan Edwards preaches about the uncertainty of judging others' religious affections solely based on outward manifestations, emphasizing that true saints cannot discern the hearts of others and should proceed with caution in determining others' spiritual states. He warns against being quick to judge and highlights the danger of being deceived by outward appearances, as even bright professors of faith can fall away. Edwards explains that error or mistake may lead to gracious exercises of the Spirit of God, and that love flowing out towards others is not a reliable indicator of their true spiritual state.
- 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).