Well, we’re continuing our summer series on Biblical Priorities called “First Things First” and we’ve come to another well-known, but often misunderstood, passage.  This week we’ll be looking at Matthew 7:5 and “First Take.”

However, this passage begins with Jesus' famous words, "Judge not, that you be not judged."  Now Christians have spent more time arguing over what these words don't mean than what they do.  They don't mean we're not to discern between good and evil (obviously).  The command not to judge does not mean Christians are to adopt the sins of the world in their own lifestyles (just as obviously).  The passages listed don't mean that the ministries of rebuking and admonishing are out, and tolerance of all sins is in.  But if we only articulate what the passages don't mean, we miss the serious divine warning.

What is this warning? The passage addresses, in a word, our attitude.  Before judging becomes a deed, it reveals the attitude of a heart.  And it's that attitude that's so dangerous.  So we're going to talk about attitudes this Sunday and how we're quick to blame others for our bad attitudes.  Should be both interesting and enlightening (and maybe even convicting).  See you Sunday, Dr. Dave.

P.S. – Please remember to pray for our 18 member Missions Team serving at Impact WV in Fairmont, West Virginia this week.