# Matthew Chapter 7
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## Summary
Jesus teaches about standing in judgement over others, and seeking knowledge. He introduces the golden rule, and warns about false prophets. He outlines that many will come to him having claimed working might works in the name of Jesus but yet will not be known by him and will be sent away. Jesus implores individuals to build their lives on the principles that he teaches noting that these will stand the test of trials that come. Jesus hereby teaches as one with authority and not as the scribes.

## Imagery and Theme's
One significant theme here seems to be that of judgement. This is certainly something that is not particularly popular within our time. There is the constant risk of being considered judgemental, or 'judging' me as an individual. This is fiercely rejected by culture who conside this a social transgression. Yet we cannot avoid that at times the bible commands judgement and speaks against it. We might take the cowards route into definitional retreat and note that in some instances perhaps Jesus is talking about discernment rather than judgement. Yet we are called to make a decision in some instances and we should acknowledge this is not a comfortable position to have to occupy. 

So in examining the 'judgement' statements we might loosely divide up these sayings into two categories. The first being where we are encouraged to withold judgement. The second where we are told to exercise judgement.

1. Withholding Judgement
    - We are warned that *"by the judgement we pronounce you will be judged"* suggesting that we will be tested against our own standards [v1].
    - we are warned against judging our own deeds as sufficient to warrant entry to the kingdom [v21]

2. Exercising Judgement
    - We are warned to beware of false prophets and instructed to judge such individuals by the fruits of their labour [v15]
    - We are warned to judge carefully with whom we share things of value as some may consider them worthiness and by their indeference cause harm to us [v6]
    - We are encouraged to judge our actions by how we ourselves would like to be treated [v12]

Interestingly then the only 'permission' to judge others is set in relationship to ourselves. Specifically (1) What we share with others, and (2) in whom we place our trust. There is therefore no conflict with the original commandment about not falling foul of one's own standards. Instead we are to be thoughtful about our relationships with others and what we entrust to them.

This considered approach then is heeding the word of Jesus and in wisdom building house on a stable foundation. We do not give our treasures away lightly, nor do we trust all individuals we meet. These elements must be earned by those that demonstrate themselves as bearing good fruit and to be trustworthy. This is not only sensible but a firm foundation on which to base one's personal relationships. Furthermore instances whereby we fall under our own judgement are also warnings against complacency. How simple a thing to utter *'should'* until the word comes back to bite us on the ass. Further still how easy is it to think our works sufficient? There is one judge, some responsibility he delegates to us (take care of your own relationships) but as to judging others; that is his domain.