By Al Felder Few words of Jesus are quoted more often, and misunderstood more often, than these: “Judge not, that you be not judged” (Matthew 7:1). Some people use those words to suggest that Christians should never identify sin, never correct error, and never make moral distinctions. However, that cannot be what Jesus meant. In the same chapter, Jesus warns about false prophets and says, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). That requires discernment. Therefor

By Al Felder Sometimes one small word can change the way we understand an entire passage. Matthew 7:12 begins with a word that is easy to rush past: “Therefore.” Jesus said, “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). Many people quote the Golden Rule as though it stands alone. They treat it like a general moral saying: “Be nice to people.” However, Jesus did not give Matthew 7:12 as an isolated prover

By Al Felder Kindness is one of those words people often admire but do not always define carefully. Many think of kindness as a pleasant attitude, a warm smile, or a friendly personality. Those things can be good, but biblical kindness is much deeper. It is not merely something we feel. It is something we do. Jesus said, “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them” (Matthew 7:12). That command does not allow kindness to remain still. It gives kindness move