Judging others Biblically

Read 2 Chronicles 19.

King Jehoshaphat made a bad decision.  He joined with the northern kingdom of Israel in a war when God said, "No."  Only by God's grace did he escape death.  When he arrived back home in Jerusalem, the LORD sent a prophet to rebuke him for what he had done.  However, Jehoshaphat was a good man and loved God.  Much remained for him to do in continuing the reforms he started.

He personally pursued some people who had been scattered or alienated to bring them "back to the LORD."  Then, he reestablished the nation's judicial system from top to bottom.  Judges were appointed, nationally and locally.  In the past, judgments had been corrupted.  But such injustices would no longer be tolerated in Judah.

Note the charge to these judges:

1. "You judge not for man but for the LORD."  v.6a

They were to represent the LORD in making their decisions.  That required that they know the word of God and seek to do what is right in God's eyes.  Right judgment is not to be determined by popular opinion, nor by respect of persons.

2. The LORD "is with you in giving judgment."  v.6b

Judges must make the hard call.  They are human, too.  They have feelings and even, at times, can second guess themselves.  But people look to them to make a decision.  This is true in the church also.  In Matthew 18:20, when a decision must be made concerning an unrepentant offender in the congregation, and the two or three witnesses have been heard, Jesus said, "there am I among you."

3. "Let the fear of the LORD be upon you."  v.7a

No judgment is to be handed down lightly, thoughtlessly, or selfishly.  Judicial decisions are accountable to the Source of all authority.  Jesus announced that the Father "has committed all judgment to the Son" (John 5:22).  And later He stated, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" (Matthew 28:18). 

4. "Deal courageously." v.11

In light of all the support God has provided to judges (His word, His presence, His authority), they are to serve with bold confidence.

God, give us these kinds of judges for our nation today.