Luke Part 23: Showing graciousness in withholding judgment of others

Text: Luke 6:37-45

In this section of the Sermon on the Mount, we can see six principles of holy living:

1. The law of holiness requires activity -- we do not become holy by just existing passively.
2. Holiness requires unconditional, sacrificial obedience.
3. We are not our own -- we have been bought; we are in the family of fellow followers.
4. As in verse 37, we are to be gracious, not censorious or condemning in our relationships. This is especially important in our relationships towards other Christians.
   
   We cannot see other people's hearts. We cannot make judgments -- either for good or bad. We cannot make a positive judgment, telling someone he is OK, but in effect encouraging wrong behavior or even good behavior with wrong motives.
   
   On the other hand, we cannot condemn others without knowing their hearts. Each of us can only do what we know to do, and each of us is being led along in his own place in the Christian walk.
   
   We must be careful judging even ourselves. We should not judge ourselves too harshly or too softly. Each of us is responsible for what God has spoken to our hearts.
   
   
5. Next, we have the example of giving (v.38). We are to be giving people; giving is an area where we can show graciousness. How much are we to give? There are no rules here! We are just told to give generously. You cannot outgive the Giver -- you will always receive it back. (see 2 Cor 9:6-7)
   
   
6. Finally, there is an objective to be obtained: that we be like Jesus, our Teacher (v. 40). If our goal is to be more righteous for its own sake, or to be more peaceful, we are going at it wrong and will miss the objective; our purpose must always be to be more Christlike.