Definition: Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down John 7:24 – “Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.” It’s a really important and often misunderstood verse. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is telling us to look beyond how something looks to truly understand its worth. Let’s unpack it bit by bit: “Judge not…” – This immediately sets the stage for a serious message. It’s about our attitude and perspective. “…according to the appearance…” – This means we shouldn't judge someone based on how they appear to us – their outward behavior, looks, or status. We shouldn't be influenced by things like wealth, popularity, or even what others think of us. It’s about judging them as they truly are . “…but judge righteous judgment.” – This is the core of the message. “Righteous judgment” refers to a deep understanding of God’s truth and rightness. It means recognizing that people are made in God's image, and therefore deserve respect and love. So, what does this mean practically? It’s about: Compassion: Instead of quick judgments based on how someone seems to be, we should try to understand their situation and their motivations. Fairness: We need to treat everyone with dignity and fairness, regardless of their circumstances. Forgiveness: It's easier to forgive others when we don’t judge them harshly based on their actions or how they present themselves. The Context – Why is this verse important? This verse comes from John 7, which describes Jesus’s betrayal and arrest. It's a moment of intense drama where Jesus prepares to go into the wilderness. The verse highlights that even though Jesus is facing a difficult situation, he remains holy and righteous – worthy of respect and love – and we should treat him with reverence. In short, John 7:24 encourages us to be kind, fair, and understanding, rather than focusing on outward appearances. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide a more detailed explanation of a specific aspect of this verse?