Replies

Note that we are to take the beam out of our eye first. We are to call sin sin, but not judge others if we are struggling with the same sin. For instance if I struggle with lust, I shouldn't say something to someone else who is doing the same.

(Though I'm quoting the above, I actually agree with everything you're saying)

I personally think that if not for the major bruhaha from the last time he said "Who am I to judge?", this would not be a matter of issue and would be seen as pretty much orthodox from any point of view. If a person repents from his/her sin, is converted, and his/her life is reformed, then we shouldn't keep beating on the person.

For me personally, when looking down on somebody who is struggling with sin^*, I always consider the sins that I, personally, have been forgiven of...and that tends to make me a lot more merciful in my judgment.

^* -- please note that the above statement applies to those who are struggling with sin; working on putting off the "old man" (cf Rom 6:6; Eph 4:4, etc.)...the statement does not include those who revel in their sin (cf Rom 1:32).

I'm personally humbled when I actually comprehended the passage "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Rom 3:23)

I think the biggest bone of contention is that he is talking about people who are trying. When I actually read his words, that's what I get. Sadly, the reprobate use a select subset of those words as justification and to confirm themselves in their sin.

Reminds me of the atheist who uses a part of Psalm 14:1 to assert that the Bible says there is no God.

Thanks, all, for the thoughtful responses. They are appreciated.