His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the danger of condemning others, explaining that condemnation does not always come in a direct or obvious form, but may sometimes appear in the form of a complaint or embarrassing questions that expose the weakness of others before people. He confirms that the spiritual person should deal with others gently and lovingly without embarrassing them or exposing their weaknesses.
He also explains that exposing people’s mistakes or focusing only on their weak points is considered a type of condemnation, especially when faults are mentioned without virtues, forming an unfair and distorted image of the person. He gives examples showing that half-truths may lead to ظلم and condemnation of others.
He also reflects on the saying of the Lord Christ about first removing the beam from one’s own eye, explaining that the beam symbolizes harshness, lack of love, and the strict outlook that makes a person see everyone’s mistakes without seeing the good existing in them.
He points out that some people possess a critical nature and a dark outlook on life, seeing only defects and shortcomings, whether in individuals or in society as a whole, while the positive side and goodness existing in others are absent from their sight.
Then His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that offering advice or spiritual teaching should be done with wisdom, and spiritual words should not be given to those who are not prepared to listen, because the teaching may be rejected or misunderstood. Therefore, one should speak to whoever has an ear to hear, while the unprepared person may be influenced through good example, righteous conduct, and spiritual gradual guidance.
The spiritual teaching here highlights the importance of love, humility, and avoiding quick judgment of others, while focusing on inner self-reform before attempting to reform others.
“For better translation support, please contact the center.”
The Sermon on the Mount – Do Not Judge, Lest You Be Judged, Part 3
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the danger of condemning others, explaining that condemnation does not always come in a direct or obvious form, but may sometimes appear in the form of a complaint or embarrassing questions that expose the weakness of others before people. He confirms that the spiritual person should deal with others gently and lovingly without embarrassing them or exposing their weaknesses.
He also explains that exposing people’s mistakes or focusing only on their weak points is considered a type of condemnation, especially when faults are mentioned without virtues, forming an unfair and distorted image of the person. He gives examples showing that half-truths may lead to ظلم and condemnation of others.
He also reflects on the saying of the Lord Christ about first removing the beam from one’s own eye, explaining that the beam symbolizes harshness, lack of love, and the strict outlook that makes a person see everyone’s mistakes without seeing the good existing in them.
He points out that some people possess a critical nature and a dark outlook on life, seeing only defects and shortcomings, whether in individuals or in society as a whole, while the positive side and goodness existing in others are absent from their sight.
Then His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that offering advice or spiritual teaching should be done with wisdom, and spiritual words should not be given to those who are not prepared to listen, because the teaching may be rejected or misunderstood. Therefore, one should speak to whoever has an ear to hear, while the unprepared person may be influenced through good example, righteous conduct, and spiritual gradual guidance.
The spiritual teaching here highlights the importance of love, humility, and avoiding quick judgment of others, while focusing on inner self-reform before attempting to reform others.
“For better translation support, please contact the center.”