John 8:15

You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one.

Study Bible

You judge
The Greek word used here is "κρίνετε" (krinete), which means to judge, decide, or determine. In the context of the Gospel of John, this term often refers to the superficial and flawed judgment of the Pharisees and other religious leaders. Their judgment is based on external appearances and human standards rather than divine insight. This highlights a common theme in the Gospel: the contrast between human and divine perspectives.

according to the flesh
The phrase "κατὰ τὴν σάρκα" (kata tēn sarka) refers to judgment based on human nature, worldly standards, or physical appearances. In the Johannine context, "flesh" often symbolizes human weakness and limitations. The religious leaders of Jesus' time were criticized for their reliance on legalistic and superficial criteria, rather than seeking spiritual truth and understanding. This serves as a caution against relying solely on human wisdom and encourages believers to seek God's perspective.

I judge no one
The Greek phrase "ἐγὼ οὐ κρίνω οὐδένα" (egō ou krinō oudena) emphasizes Jesus' role and mission during His earthly ministry. While Jesus possesses the authority to judge, His mission was not to condemn but to save (John 3:17). This statement underscores the grace and mercy inherent in Jesus' ministry. It also points to the future time when Jesus will return as the righteous judge. For now, His focus is on offering redemption and reconciliation to humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is addressing the Pharisees and contrasting His divine perspective with their earthly judgment.

2. Pharisees
A religious group in Judaism known for strict adherence to the Law and traditions. They often clashed with Jesus over interpretations of the Law and spiritual matters.

3. Temple Courts
The setting of this discourse, where Jesus often taught and engaged with both followers and critics.

4. Judgment
The act of forming an opinion or conclusion about someone or something. In this context, it refers to the Pharisees' judgment based on human standards.

5. Flesh
Refers to human nature and worldly perspectives, often contrasted with spiritual insight in the New Testament.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Judgment
Jesus contrasts His divine perspective with human judgment. As believers, we are called to seek God's wisdom and discernment rather than relying solely on human understanding.

Avoiding Superficial Judgments
The Pharisees judged according to the flesh, focusing on external appearances and legalistic standards. We must strive to look beyond the surface and seek the heart of the matter, as God does.

Emulating Christ's Example
Jesus states, "I judge no one," highlighting His mission of grace and redemption. We should emulate His example by extending grace and refraining from harsh judgments.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit aids believers in discerning truth and making righteous judgments. We should rely on the Spirit's guidance in our interactions and decisions.

Reflecting on Our Own Hearts
Before judging others, we must examine our own hearts and motives. This self-reflection helps us approach others with humility and compassion.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' statement in John 8:15 challenge our natural inclinations to judge others based on appearances or actions?

2. In what ways can we seek to understand and apply God's perspective in our daily judgments and decisions?

3. How does the concept of judging "according to the flesh" manifest in today's society, and how can we guard against it?

4. Reflect on a time when you judged someone prematurely. How might this passage encourage a different approach in the future?

5. How can we rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us in making righteous judgments, and what practices can help us cultivate this reliance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 7:24
Jesus instructs to judge with righteous judgment, highlighting the difference between superficial and spiritual discernment.

1 Samuel 16:7
God tells Samuel that He looks at the heart, not outward appearances, emphasizing divine versus human judgment.

Romans 2:1-3
Paul warns against judging others, as we are all subject to God's judgment, reinforcing the theme of humility in judgment.

Matthew 7:1-5
Jesus teaches about the dangers of hypocritical judgment, urging self-reflection before judging others.

James 4:11-12
James cautions against speaking evil of others and reminds believers that there is only one Lawgiver and Judge.