Judging others is something we all do, whether we realize it or not. It might show up in quiet thoughts, whispered comments, or even public criticism. While discernment is necessary in life, the Bible warns us about being quick to condemn or look down on others. Why? Because judgment can separate us from others and from God’s heart of compassion.
The Bible offers deep wisdom about judging others, encouraging humility, grace, and self-examination. It challenges us to look inward before casting judgment outward.
In this post, we’ll explore 15 powerful Bible verses that speak directly to this topic—each one offering encouragement, correction, and spiritual clarity.
15 Bible Verses About Judging Others
1. Matthew 7:1
Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
Explanation:
This well-known teaching from Jesus reminds us that judgment invites judgment. It urges us to check our own hearts before pointing fingers at others.
2. 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 calls us to a life of grace and mercy. Rather than being quick to judge, we’re invited to forgive and extend the same grace that God gives us.
3. 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, because you who pass judgment do the same things.
Explanation:
Paul confronts hypocrisy. When we judge others for sins we also struggle with, we reveal our own need for grace. The verse teaches self-reflection over condemnation.
4. James 4:11–12
Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it.
There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?
Explanation:
James reminds us that God alone is the rightful Judge. When we judge others, we step into a role that belongs to Him, forgetting our own need for mercy.
5. John 8:7
When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
Explanation:
Jesus challenges the self-righteous crowd about to stone a woman caught in sin. His words call for humility and self-awareness—we all need grace.
6. 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 speaks about differing convictions among believers and emphasizes that judgment belongs to God. Our role is to love and respect, not to look down on others.
7. 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?
How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?
You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
Explanation:
Jesus uses a powerful image to show how quick we are to notice others’ flaws while ignoring our own. True help comes after self-correction, not from a place of judgment.
8. Galatians 6:1
Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.
Explanation:
This verse encourages gentle restoration, not harsh judgment. It acknowledges that we’re all vulnerable and must correct others with care, not pride.
9. Proverbs 21:2
A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart.
Explanation:
We often judge based on appearance or behavior, but God looks deeper. Only He sees the heart, and that reminds us to be slow to judge and quick to listen.
10. 1 Corinthians 4:5
Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes.
He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.
Explanation:
Paul teaches patience and trust in God’s final judgment. We may not know the full story, but God does. Our role is to wait and trust His timing and justice.
11. Colossians 3:12–13
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Explanation:
These verses remind us of the attitudes God wants us to carry. Rather than judging, we’re called to show compassion and extend forgiveness, just as God forgives us.
12. Titus 3:2–3
To slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.
At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures.
Explanation:
Paul reminds Titus—and us—that we’ve all made mistakes. Remembering our past should humble us and help us approach others with gentleness, not judgment.
13. Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Explanation:
This verse captures God’s heart for justice and mercy. Rather than sitting in judgment, we’re called to walk humbly and love others with grace.
14. Ephesians 4:2
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Explanation:
Judgment often comes from impatience or pride. Paul calls us to a better way—humility, gentleness, and love that helps us build unity instead of criticism.
15. Matthew 5:7
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Explanation:
Jesus teaches that mercy brings blessings. When we choose mercy over judgment, we reflect God’s character and open ourselves to receive His grace.
Final Thoughts on Judging Others
The Bible is clear—judging others is not our job. We’re called to love, correct with gentleness, and extend the same mercy we’ve received from God. These 15 verses serve as both a warning and an invitation: a warning against prideful judgment and an invitation to live in humility, love, and grace.
It’s not always easy to hold back judgment, especially when we feel justified. But with God’s help, we can see others through His eyes—not through our own filters.
Now we’d love to hear from you.
Which of these verses spoke to your heart today? How has God helped you grow in grace toward others? Share your favorite verses, personal stories, or insights in the comments below.
Let’s encourage each other to live with mercy, humility, and understanding.