Matthew 7:1-5

Introduction:

1. Our final impediment is measuring our spiritual condition by faulty standards.

2. While we can learn and grow from the conduct of others (1 Corinthians 10:6; Philippians 3:17-18), we must be sure and measure our true condition against the right standard.

3. In a sense, this is a practical application of the previous two: ignorance and pride.

Discussion:

I. Specks and Beams (Matthew 7:1-5; Romans 2)

A. One of the most powerful impediments to the change of heart we need for conversion is measuring our spiritual condition against that of others.

B. Two severely detrimental effects flow from this tendency:

1. A sense of self-righteousness; at least I am not as bad as ________.

2. Reaching for too low of a standard, the righteousness of others and not Christ.

II. The Call to Introspection

A. Neither passage above condemns calling out sins in others as this contradicts so many other passages (Matthew 7:15-20; John 7:24; Romans 16:17; Galatians 6:1; James 5:19-20).

B. They call us to address our own flaws to avoid hypocrisy and the harsh, judgmental spirit of self-righteousness (2 Corinthians 13:5).

C. This is a core issue in the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15.

III. The Right Standard

A. So, central to dispelling ignorance and uprooting pride is comparing our spiritual condition to the right standard.

B. Thankfully, He made the standard of our judgment plain for all to see (John 12:48; Romans 2:5-10; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 2 Timothy 1:13; 3:15-16).

C. Only when we see our lost condition as set forth in His word will we respond with humble repentance (Romans 3:23; 12:3; Matthew 18:1-4; 2 Timothy 2:24-26).

Conclusion:

1. It is common to try and justify our own shortcomings by comparing them to others.

2. Such only thwarts any possibility of change and deceives us into feeling all is well.

3. We must own our true spiritual condition by evaluating it against the true standard.

Further Food for Thought

1. Have you ever caught yourself falling into this snare of faulty comparisons?

2. Do you see this tendency holding you back from furthering your Christian maturity?

3. How can we collectively help one another conquer this growth stunting tendency?