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How to judge

In the Sermon on the Mount, Christ said, "Judge not, lest ye be judged" (Matt 7:1).

Seems pretty clear. He then goes on to explain that judging is reciprocal - with the same judgement we judge we will in turn be judged. Further, he explains, we should remove our own visual blocks which enables us to clearly see what is wrong with others and are in a better position to help.

So how does all of this play in to the scripture which enjoins those who are called to be bishops that we must judge (see D & C 107: 72; 74)? And is it possible, in a larger sense, NOT to judge things?

There must be a distinction between judging things or actions and people. We are not given to know all things - that belongs to God only. But Moroni, quoting his father Mormon, shows us the way to judge. He says that things that are from God are light (enlightening), peaceful, and pointing to God. Those things that are dark, contentious, and that take us away from God are of the devil. For those who have the Spirit to guide them, it is as clear as is the summer sun - a bitter fountain cannot bring forth good water, neither can a pure fountain bring forth that which is bitter. We can know through the Holy Spirit that which is good and right and holy. We can also discern that which is evil and wrong and devilish. In fact, we must discern between these things so we will know which to choose. We must choose the right.

Judging people and their motives is something that is given to the chosen, called, and anointed servants of God. These are very few in number - bishops, branch presidents, stake presidents, and the First Presidency. In all the world, this amounts to fewer than 50,000 people. They (and I am currently included in that number, but it was not always that way and will not always be that way) are called - as noted in that reference above - to be common judges in Israel. This is a sacred obligation, and there are attendant blessings and responsibilities that come with this. Among these is the promise that discernment will come through the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Ghost (see D & C 46:27).

Thus we (as bishops) may know from God how to judge. In a sense, it is not us who is judging but the member and God. The bishop just acts as God's representative, stating a judgement that the transgressor already knows he/she merits.

It is important to note that those who repent are forgiven - as often as they do repent. That is the glory and the beauty of the Atonement of Christ. And God be praised for His endless mercy. He is truly great!

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