Perhaps, the best-known and most-loved saying of Jesus is, “Judge not, that you be not judged” (Mat.7:1). Even among those who do not love Jesus many if not all of them love this saying for it seems to prohibit people from passing judgment on their lifestyle. However, the focus of Jesus in this passage (Mat.7:1-6) seems to be on how followers of Christ should treat each other.
The admonition not to judge (vv.1-2) should be understood in the context of how we should treat a brother or sister in Christ who is sinning (vv.3-5). We certainly must not judge and condemn them, but rather come alongside and help them to remove the speck from their eye which represents sin. Before assisting them, we must examine our own life to ensure that we are not living in sin. In fact, Paul called on Christians who were spiritual to restore a sinning brother or sister (Gal.6:1). This kind of ministry requires a great deal of love and gentleness. Removing a speck from someone’s eye is a delicate procedure indeed! One can do more damage than good!

“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1)