Self-Judging
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of self-judgment for spiritual growth and the role of humility in this process.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of self-judgment for spiritual growth, asserting that a Christian's progress is directly linked to their ability to critically assess themselves. He references Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 11:31, highlighting that self-judgment can help us avoid God's critical judgment. Tozer argues that without a humble, self-critical spirit, practice alone will not lead to perfection but rather reinforce our faults. He encourages a learner's attitude of humility and willingness to be corrected, which opens the mind to improvement.
Text
All things else being equal, a Christian will make spiritual progress exactly in proportion to his ability to criticize himself.
Paul said, "But if we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment" (1 Corinthians 11:31). We escape the critical judgment of God by exercising critical self-judgment. It is as simple as that.
We often hear the axiom "Practice makes perfect." The fact is that practice, far from making perfect, actually confirms us in our faults unless it is carried on in a humble, self-critical spirit. The whole philosophy of instruction rests upon the idea that the learner is wrong and is seeking to be made right. No teacher can correct his pupil unless the pupil comes to him in humility. The only proper attitude for the learner is one of humble self-distrust. "I am ignorant," he says, "and am willing to be taught. I am wrong and am willing to be corrected." In this childlike spirit, the mind is made capable of improvement.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Importance of Self-Judgment - Biblical Basis for Self-Judgment - Consequences of Neglecting Self-Judgment
- II points: - The Role of Humility in Self-Judgment - The Relationship Between Self-Criticism and Spiritual Growth - Examples from Scripture
- III points: - Practical Steps for Self-Judgment - The Impact of Self-Judgment on Community - Encouragement to Embrace Self-Critique
Key Quotes
“But if we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment.” — A.W. Tozer
“Practice, far from making perfect, actually confirms us in our faults unless it is carried on in a humble, self-critical spirit.” — A.W. Tozer
“The only proper attitude for the learner is one of humble self-distrust.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Regularly reflect on your actions and attitudes to identify areas for improvement.
- Approach learning and correction with a humble heart, ready to accept guidance.
- Encourage others in your community to practice self-judgment for collective spiritual growth.