Series: Test Of A Disciple
Title: Being Discerning in a Critical World
Text: Matthew 7:1-6

We live in a world where people are either eager to put others down or are reluctant to judge because “love is acceptance”. Neither extremes are biblical. How can we be discerning in a critical world? 

General Questions:

1. What do people tend to be critical about? 

2. In the passage Matthew 7:1-6, what does Jesus say about how believers should judge rightly?

Perspective Questions:

1. Consider the difference between unrighteous judgment and wise discernment. How do we differentiate them? What are some underlying heart attitudes that can lead to either of them? 

2. As Christians who are called to love others and point people to Christ, what possible impact does being judgmental have on us? How does Jesus’ call for self-examination affect our interactions with others, especially if the other party is in the wrong? What makes this self-examination important?

Application Questions:

1. One sign of humility is how strict we are with our own thoughts, actions and speech. Consider how strict we are with ourselves. What would help us to be more candid about our faults and failings? How can we be more open to receiving correction? 

2. Reflect and share about any people issues that we might be facing in school, at work or at home. How can we handle these issues with wise discernment or be a good judge of character?