Romans 2:1 – “Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.”
This verse sets the stage for the entire chapter. It is a careful reminder to avoid passing judgment on someone else. It is also a strict warning not to place ourselves in the position that is to be solely possessed by deity, that is the seat of a judge.
The warning against judging others is framed within the context of understanding that we will be judged personally. It is only by the goodness of God that we are not recipients of His wrath. There are three characteristics God possesses that delay His judgment upon us. They are: goodness (kindness), forbearance (tolerance), and longsuffering (patience). I have witnessed people judge others who themselves are living in the season of God’s tolerance and I fear for them. It is best that we judge ourselves and leave the judging of others to God. 1 Corinthians 11:31 states, “For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged.”
When living in a season of God’s tolerance there are several spiritual conditions listed in Romans 2 that we want to guard against. 1) Hardness (stubbornness) – we must stay soft and sensitive to God’s Spirit and His dealing with us. Don’t’ become convinced that God is winking at your sin and then you start to excuse it because He hasn’t dealt with you. Remember, YOU’RE LIVING IN A SEASON OF GOD’S TOLERANCE! 2) Unrepentant heart – Be quick to acknowledge your sin and humble yourself before God. 3) Self seeking – Watch the “it’s all about me”syndrome. Learn to become more focused on others and their well-being rather than your own selfish news, opinions, and needs. 4) Disobedience – This is a big one. Don’t mistake God’s tolerance for approval. That would be a dangerous misdiagnosis on your part. (Verses 4 and 8).
When the Lord judges us we are being chastened by Him (1 Corinthians 11:32) because He loves us (Hebrews 12:6). Let us refrain from fault- finding when people are experiencing the judgment of God or their sin has been exposed. Rather, let us heed the instructions of Galatians 6:1 – “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.” Let us also remember, “It is the goodness (kindness) of God that leads us to repentance” (Romans 2:4). The best advice at the end of the day is to keep our mouths closed and pray.