The phrase throw a rock and hide your hand isn’t found verbatim in the King James Bible, but its meaning—judging others while avoiding accountability—appears again and again. Jesus and the apostles warn us against hypocrisy, teach us to examine our own hearts first, and remind us that mercy triumphs over judgment.
Key Takeaways
- See why Jesus forbade casting stones at those in sin without self‑examination.
- Discover how New and Old Testament writers address hypocrisy and judgment.
- Learn practical steps to replace harsh criticism with compassion.
- Reflect on how God’s mercy shapes how we treat others.
When we hide our own faults while pointing out the sins of others, we miss the grace we ourselves need. These 15 verses invite us to live transparently, offer forgiveness, and leave ultimate judgment in God’s hands.
15 Bible Verses on Casting Stones, Hypocrisy, and Mercy
1. John 8:7 (KJV)
And when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
Explanation:
In the account of the woman taken in adultery, Jesus stops the crowd’s stoning by highlighting their own sin. True justice begins with self‑examination, not hidden judgments.
2. Matthew 7:1 (KJV)
Judge not, that ye be not judged.
Explanation:
Jesus opens the Sermon on the Mount with this command. When we judge harshly, we invite equal scrutiny of our own lives—encouraging humility over hidden condemnation.
3. Matthew 7:2 (KJV)
For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
Explanation:
This follow‑up to “judge not” reminds us that God applies our own standards back to us. If we “throw a rock” at others, we risk facing the same strictness.
4. Matthew 7:3 (KJV)
And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
Explanation:
Jesus uses vivid imagery: a small speck versus a large plank. He warns against focusing on others’ minor faults while ignoring our major ones.
5. Matthew 7:5 (KJV)
Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.
Explanation:
Only after removing our own “beam” can we help others without hypocrisy. This process prevents us from “throwing a rock” in secret and hiding our own sins.
6. Luke 6:37 (KJV)
Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:
Explanation:
Luke echoes Matthew’s teaching and adds “condemn not.” Jesus contrasts condemnation with forgiveness—inviting us to extend the same grace we receive.
7. Luke 6:42 (KJV)
Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
Explanation:
Reiterating the mote‑and‑beam lesson, Jesus calls out the absurdity of offering to remove small sins from others while harboring greater faults ourselves.
8. Romans 2:1 (KJV)
Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself…
Explanation:
Paul points out that condemning others reveals our own guilt. Judgment without mercy is self‑damning, for we all fall short of God’s perfect standard.
9. James 2:13 (KJV)
For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.
Explanation:
James contrasts judgment and mercy: refusing to show mercy brings harsh judgment, but practicing mercy surrounds us with joy rather than condemnation.
10. 1 Corinthians 4:5 (KJV)
Judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness…
Explanation:
Paul warns against premature judgment. Only Christ sees every motive and will judge righteously in His timing—so we must leave hidden matters to Him.
11. John 8:59 (KJV)
Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple…
Explanation:
When Jesus affirms His deity, the crowd tries to stone Him. He slips away—showing that God is not for secret violence or hypocritical plots.
12. Matthew 22:18 (KJV)
But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?
Explanation:
In the question about paying taxes, Jesus calls the Pharisees “hypocrites.” He exposes hidden traps—another form of “throwing stones” in secret—and refuses to be ensnared.
13. 1 Peter 4:8 (KJV)
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
Explanation:
Peter shifts the focus from judgment to love. Instead of throwing stones, we’re to cover sins with love—showing mercy that heals rather than condemns.
14. Galatians 6:1 (KJV)
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness…
Explanation:
Paul urges gentle restoration, not secret condemnation. True helpers approach sin with humility and care, no hidden rocks in hand.
15. 1 John 4:20 (KJV)
If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar…
Explanation:
John exposes the lie of hidden hatred. Claiming to love God while secretly holding disdain for others is the ultimate hypocrisy—like throwing a rock and denying it.
Conclusion and Reflection
Though you won’t find the exact phrase throw a rock and hide your hand in the KJV, these 15 scriptures reveal its meaning: don’t judge or condemn in secret, examine your own heart first, and extend the mercy you’ve received.
Ask yourself today: where might you be hiding stones—criticisms or grudges—behind a façade of righteousness? How can you put down those stones and pick up love, mercy, and humble service instead?
Call to Action:
Share in the comments: Which of these verses on judgment and hypocrisy spoke to you? How is God calling you to exchange hidden stones for open hands of grace? We’d love to hear your reflections!