By Pastor Matthew Ritchey
We live in a society based upon a false definition of tolerance. Instead of using tolerance in its true context — which defined is “putting up with someone/something” — people use tolerance to preach acceptance of every viewpoint and lifestyle. This wrong use of tolerance carries the view that we cannot judge anyone for their decisions, actions, beliefs, or lifestyle choices. “Judge not, that you be not judged” from Matthew 7:1 is usually quoted to prove that judging is wrong; however, this verse is used out of context. Matthew 7:1 in its proper context is talking about hypocrisy as seen a few verses later (v. 5): “You hypocrite, first cast out the plank out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the splinter that is in your brother's eye.” The absolute of God’s Word is always a trustworthy source of judgment.
Since God is the righteous Creator, we should look to Him to form our opinion on matters. This is true in matters of a person’s actions, decisions, beliefs, and lifestyle choices. Yet, Colossians 2:16 warns of a false method of judgment, allowing someone to use religious ceremonialism as the basis to judge the matter of one’s position in the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul has already told the Colossians not to be robbed of enjoying their eternal completeness in God the Son. By trusting in the finished wo ...
