We all wrestle with judgment—whether we’re being judged unfairly or finding ourselves judging others. It’s human nature to form opinions, but Scripture calls us to something higher: grace, humility, and self-awareness.
The Bible doesn’t say we can never speak truth or call out sin, but it does warn us against hypocritical, harsh, or self-righteous judgment.
Jesus Himself addressed this issue directly. He taught us to look inward first, to lead with love, and to remember that God alone sees the heart.
Whether you’re dealing with conflict, relationships, or your own inner struggles, these Bible verses about the judgment of others will help guide your heart and words with wisdom and compassion.
Here are 15 Bible verses, each with a clear explanation to help you apply the message to your daily life.
1. Matthew 7:1
Matthew 7:1
Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
Explanation:
Jesus gives a clear warning here: be cautious when judging others, because the same standard will be used for you. This verse reminds us to lead with humility, not criticism.
2. Luke 6:37
Luke 6:37
Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Explanation:
Jesus connects judgment with forgiveness. If we want mercy, we must offer it. Choosing grace over condemnation reflects God’s own heart.
3. Romans 2:1
Romans 2:1
You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself.
Explanation:
Paul reminds us that we’re often guilty of the same things we criticize. Before judging others, we must reflect on our own shortcomings.
4. James 4:11-12
James 4:11-12
Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another… There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy.
Explanation:
We’re not called to tear others down or take God’s place in judging them. This verse reminds us to speak truth without slander, and to let God be the final judge.
5. John 7:24
John 7:24
Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.
Explanation:
Jesus teaches that we should not judge based on how things look on the surface. Instead, we should discern wisely, with fairness and truth.
6. Galatians 6:1
Galatians 6:1
Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.
Explanation:
Correction has its place, but it must be done with a spirit of gentleness and restoration—not condemnation. The goal is healing, not punishment.
7. Proverbs 21:2
Proverbs 21:2
A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart.
Explanation:
God sees the truth beyond outward actions. This verse encourages us to be slow to judge others since only God truly knows their heart.
8. Romans 14:10
Romans 14:10
You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.
Explanation:
Paul urges believers to remember that each person answers to God, not us. Our role is to love, not condemn.
9. 1 Corinthians 4:5
1 Corinthians 4:5
Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes.
Explanation:
Only God knows the full picture. This verse encourages patience and trust in God’s perfect judgment, rather than rushing to conclusions.
10. Matthew 7:3-5
Matthew 7:3-5
Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?
Explanation:
Jesus uses strong imagery to challenge hypocrisy. Before pointing out others’ faults, we must first examine our own hearts honestly.
11. Titus 3:2
Titus 3:2
To slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.
Explanation:
This verse gives practical advice on how to treat others—with peace, kindness, and respect. Judgmental behavior goes against this call.
12. Colossians 3:13
Colossians 3:13
Bear with each other and forgive one another… Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Explanation:
Instead of judging others for their faults, we are called to extend the same forgiveness we’ve received from God.
13. Ephesians 4:29
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.
Explanation:
Our words should help, not harm. This verse challenges us to speak in ways that build others up instead of tearing them down with judgment.
14. Romans 14:13
Romans 14:13
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block in your brother’s way.
Explanation:
Paul encourages unity, not division. Judgment can be a stumbling block, but grace creates space for growth and connection.
15. 1 Samuel 16:7
1 Samuel 16:7
The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
Explanation:
We often make snap judgments based on appearance, but God sees deeper. This verse calls us to avoid shallow judgment and seek God’s perspective.
Final Thoughts: Lead With Love, Not Judgment
These Bible verses about judgment of others give us a clear message—judging is not our role. While we are called to speak truth and encourage righteousness, it must always be done with humility, compassion, and grace. God sees hearts. We don’t.
Instead of judging others harshly, we can lead with love, ask for wisdom, and trust God to do the work in people’s lives. Let’s be people who uplift, not tear down.
Which verse challenged or inspired you most? Have you experienced the impact of judgment or grace in your life? Share your thoughts or your favorite Bible verse about judgment of others in the comments. Let’s grow together in understanding and faith.