Don’t Judge

November 18, 2017

DAILY READING

Romans 14:1-4

This week’s sermon text: Romans 15:14-29

FIELD NOTES
These four short verses remind us of the importance of Christian community. As Christians, we are called to welcome all, to live in community with people who might think differently than us, and not to judge someone because they believe or practice differently than us. God alone can judge those who serve God.

One of my favorite shows in the summer is So You Think You Can Dance. Sometimes there will be a routine that the judges cannot agree on. Each judge will have watched the same performance, but one might love it and another might have thought it was not good enough. It is a matter of perspective. Like the judges on the show, we might have our own opinions or beliefs about certain spiritual matters, however, as Christians we are called to remain in fellowship with one another, to love one another, and not to judge.

Judging each other harshly can lead to conflict and can prevent us from seeing all we have in common instead of just what we disagree on. Rather, we should welcome one another and seek to learn from each other, and not allow our differences to tear us apart.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

• What do you value about Christian community?
• Have you ever felt judged and excluded because of a belief you held?
• How can you set aside judgments and welcome believers who might disagree with you?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

• How can you be more welcoming?

PRAYER GUIDE
God, help me not to judge others. Help me to see all people as your children who deserve love and respect. Thank you for the gift of Christian community where everyone can be welcomed in the name of Jesus. Amen.