2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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NO PRESUMPTUOUS JUDGMENT (I)
TUESDAY, MARCH 24
2 Corinthians 13:1
Deuteronomy 17:2-13
“In the mouth of two
or three witnesses …”
NO PRESUMPTUOUS JUDGMENT (I)
The Apostle Paul made it clear that while he hoped for a more cordial visit to Corinth the third time, his meekness should not be mistaken for a lack of action. Discipline would be meted out to those who continued to destroy the peace in the church with their wicked ways and unwholesome doctrines.
The false apostles, teachers and brethren of the Corinthian church employed false accusations and slanders against those who stood in their way. They did so because the truth was not on their side. However, when the saints judged a case, they did not do so frivolously or make presumptuous judgments. Every case must be judged according to evidence and truth.
The principle of “two or three witnesses” is rooted in the Old Testament judicial procedure of Israel. One passage which teaches this principle is Deuteronomy 17:2-13. The law dictated that whenever accusation was made of any man or woman of worshipping false gods, due diligence must be made to find out if the accusation was true. “And it be told thee, and thou hast heard of it, and enquired diligently, and, behold, it be true, and the thing certain, that such abomination is wrought in Israel” (Deut 17:4). Accusation must be taken not at the hearsay of an individual but from multiple witnesses. If it then be established that the accusation was true, then the congregation must do their part to mete out proper judgment. Their hands must not be slack to do it, starting first with the witnesses. “At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death” (Deut 17:6).
In application, people will often bring bits of information and rumours to us. As we hear these words, be careful of making presumptive judgments. Do not be quick to jump to conclusions. Always be diligent to find the truth of the matter before making any decisions.
THOUGHT: Beware of unfounded rumours and gossips.
PRAYER: Father, help me not to be presumptive in my judgments.