In Christianity, the concept that judgment belongs to God alone is rooted in the belief that only God possesses the perfect wisdom and justice required to judge human actions and intentions fairly. This idea is supported by various scriptural references which suggest that while humans can make judgments about behaviour and actions, ultimate judgment is reserved for God.
This is because human judgments can be flawed by personal biases, limited understanding, and the inability to see the heart and motivations of others. The danger, is that by casting an erroneous judgment, that you set yourself against God, in his final judgment, unwittingly, and if you do not change that personal conceit, then it will form part of your own final judgment.
The Bible contains numerous verses that discuss the concept of God’s judgment. For instance, Romans 2:1 warns against judging others, stating, “You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself because you who pass judgment do the same things.” Matthew 7:1-2 also addresses this, advising, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Proverbs 21:2 reflects on the righteousness of God’s judgment: “A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart.” Additionally, James 4:12 emphasizes God’s unique authority to judge: “There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbour?” These verses collectively underscore the belief that ultimate judgment is reserved for God, who judges justly and knows the hearts of all.
In Christian theology, judgment and holding a grudge are distinct concepts, though they can sometimes be conflated. Judgment, in a theological sense, refers to the discernment of right and wrong and is ultimately God’s prerogative. Humans who attempt to judge, but their judgments will be flawed by personal biases and limited perspectives. The Bible warns its followers against trying to judge others, as those ignorant rules they apply to others will be used against themselves when the time comes.
For many Christians, not only do they judge, but they use that judgment to hold a grudge, and they often end up acting on that grudge in ways that expose their lack of unconditional love. Holding a grudge, is an emotional state where one harbours ongoing resentment or anger towards someone for past wrongs. It is considered counterproductive to Christian living, as it can lead to bitterness and hinder one’s relationship with God and others. So long as you judge others, you are in great danger of falling down this trap. Your mouth may speak of God’s love, but your heart is harbouring hate. This is your hate, it’s not theirs, they may have no hate, and the only sinner, therefore, would be you.
