Judge (decide, determine, go to law [sue], try, condemn) (2919) (krino and its cognates [see below] is a root of English words like critic, critical [kritikos] = a decisive point at which judgment is made) primarily signifies to distinguish, to decide between (in the sense of considering two or more things and reaching a decision), to make up one's mind, to separate, to discriminate. to distinguish between good and evil, right and wrong, without necessarily passing an adverse sentence, although that is often what is usually involved. As you will see from this study, krino has various shades of meaning which must be determined from the context.
The basic meaning of krino is to form an opinion after separating and considering the particulars in the case. Krino means to evaluate and determine what is right, proper, and expedient for correction.
Kríno should be distinguished from a cognate verb katakrino, "to condemn," derived from kata, "down, against," and kríno, "to judge." In Romans 2:1 both verbs are used - "Therefore you are without excuse, every man [of you] who passes judgment (krino), for in that you judge (krino) another, you condemn (katakrino) yourself; for you who judge (krino) practice the same things. The understanding of this verse lies in the proper rendering of what is translated "another" (heteros). It is another who is different than you are. If the only reason you judge another person is because he is different than you are, the basis of your judgment is faulty; and it is no surprise that you will condemn him, for who is better than self! Only God knows the extent of suffering there has been in this world because people have judged their fellowmen by the color or physical features specific to their race. "Undoubtedly much of the warring and rioting and bloodshed in the world today is due to just such judgment." (Zodhiates)
Wuest gives an excellent sense of the progression of meaning of this Greek word - The word krino meant originally to separate, then to distinguish, to pick out, to be of opinion, and finally, to judge. The act of judgment was therefore that of forming an accurate and honest opinion of someone, thus, appraising his character, and placing him in a certain position with respect to the law of God. The result of such a judgment is commonly condemnation. (Wuest's word studies from the Greek New Testament)
HCSB Study Bible - The Greek verb krino means to judge and always involves the process of thinking through a situation and coming to a conclusion. The term could be used in a narrowly judicial sense but it also has several nuances related to judging in a more general sense. In nonjudicial contexts, krino can mean to select, prefer, decide, consider. In the NT, krino most often refers to judging something or someone in general. However, krino does occur in specific judicial settings several times, and the court can be human (Mt 5:40; Jn 7:51; 18:31; Ac 23:3; 24:21; 25:9-10,20; 6.6" class="scriptRef">26:6; 1Co 6:1,6) or divine (Jn 5:22,30; 12:48; Ac 17:31; Ro 2:16; 3:4-7; 2Tim 4:1; 1Pe 4:5; Rev 20:12-13). In two passages, krino is used with the meaning to rule. Jesus said that the twelve apostles would judge the twelve tribes of Israel "in the Messianic Age" (Mt 19:28), and here krino likely means to rule, as the verse's reference to sitting on thrones would imply. Similarly, Paul's statement that the saints would judge the world and angels (1Co 6:2-3) probably means that believers will rule over them both in the future kingdom (cp. Rev 2:26-27). (Holman Christian Study Bible-enter 1 Corinthians 6 - Click "Read" under Study Bible Notes)
Krino means “to form a proper appreciation of anything by discriminating between two or more things,” to divide or separate and thus, “to form a judgment." The idea is to sift out and analyze evidence.
The primary meaning of krino is "to judge in the sense of discerning something" or "to reach a decision about something." The decision in the case of krino can be either for or against someone. However, many times krino denotes a decision of condemnation in which the guilty party is handed over for punishment. It is used in this sense in Acts 13:27. Here Paul said that the Jewish leaders fulfilled the words of the Old Testament prophets in condemning Jesus.
When one judges (krino) in their own mind as to what is right, proper, expedient the idea is that they decide or determine. Another sense of krino is to form and express a judgment or opinion as to any person or thing, whether favorable or unfavorable (Jn 8:15). Krino means to hold a view or have an opinion with regard to something (Acts 15:19). Finally, krino means to judge in the classic judicial sense (decide a question of legal right or wrong, and thus determine the innocence or guilt of the accused and assign appropriate punishment or retribution) (Jn 18:31), some of these uses referring to eschatological (future) judgment by God (or Jesus -Jn 5:30, 2Ti 4:1, 1Pe 4:5, Rev 19:11) (Jn 5:22, 8:50, Acts 17:31, Ro 2:16, 3:6, etc). One of the most incredible passages (to me) is "Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is judged by you, are you not competent [to] [constitute] the smallest law courts?" (1Cor 6:2)
Wayne Detzler - The word translated “judgment” in the New Testament is krisis, and the verb, “to judge,” is krino. This root is seen in many English words, including “crisis” (a decisive time when judgment must be made) and “critical” (a decisive point at which judgment is seen). The elementary meaning is to make a judgment. In early Greek the word was related to the supposed activities of the gods, who were guardians of rights and customs. They judged those actions which conflicted with their rights or customs. If people violated these basic rules of life, it was believed that the gods would punish (or judge) either the violaters or their children. When the word was taken up in the Septuagint Greek Old Testament it took on a Hebrew flavor. In the Old Testament it was Jehovah God who judged between right and wrong. The standard for judgment was His holy Law, handed down at Sinai. (New Testament Words in Today’s Language)
MacArthur - In the New Testament, krino (to judge) has numerous shades of meaning, ranging from the broad and usually positive sense of forming an opinion or of resolving an issue (As in ?Luke 7:43?; ?Acts 4:19?) to the immeasurably more serious and negative sense of condemning or damning (As in ?John 12:48?; ?Acts 13:27?; ?2 Thess. 2:12?). (2 Timothy. Chicago, Ill.: Moody Press)
Green - Like the English verb “?judge,?” the Greek word krino can mean “?form an opinion?” (Lk 7:43). But normally in the NT it describes the passing of a sentence—either in a law-court (Mt 5:40) or metaphorically with reference to divine judgment (Mt 7:1–2; Jn 5:22, 30). Often the focus is on the negative aspect of condemnation (Mt 7:1; Jn 3:17–18). (Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels. Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press)
Broadly speaking, krino can have either a legal, judicial sense or a casual sense of personal preference.?
BDAG summarized - Primary meaning: ‘to set apart so as to distinguish, separate’, then by transference (1) to make a selection = to select, prefer (Ro 14:5) (2) to pass judgment upon (and thereby seek to influence) the lives and actions of other people (a) judge, pass judgment upon, express an opinion about Mt 7:1, 2; Lk 6:37; (b) Especially to pass an unfavorable judgment upon, criticize, find fault with, condemn (Ro 2:1, 14:3-4) (3) to make a judgment based on taking various factors into account = to judge, think, consider, look upon. (you do not consider yourselves worthy Acts 13:46; you considered their shortcomings as your own 1 Clement 2:6; to decide whether it is right to obey you rather than God Acts 4:19) (4) to come to a conclusion after a cognitive process = to reach a decision, decide, propose, intend (Acts 3:13, 20:16, 25:25, 1Cor 2:2, 5:3, Titus 3:12) (5) to engage in a judicial process = to judge, decide, hale before a court, condemn, also hand over for judicial punishment. (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature)
Krino - Primarily “to judge,” primarily signifies to separate, to select, to choose, to distinguish; then, to distinguish between right and wrong, without necessarily passing an adverse sentence, though this is usually involved. Katakrino, a strengthened form of krino; always denotes “to pass an adverse sentence”. (Vine)
Vine - "The uses of this verb in the NT may be analyzed as follows: (a) to assume the office of a judge, Mt 7:1; Jn 3:17; (b) to undergo process of trial, John 3:18; 16:11; 18:31; James 2:12; (c) to give sentence, Acts 15:19; 16:4; 21:25; (d) to condemn, Jn 12:48; Acts 13:27; Ro 2:27; (e) to execute judgment upon, 2Th 2:12; Acts 7:7; (f) to be involved in a lawsuit, whether as plaintiff, Mt 5:40; 1Cor 6:1; or as defendant, Acts 23:6; (g) to administer affairs, to govern, Mt 19:28; cp. Jdg 3:10; (h) to form an opinion, Lk 7:43; Jn 7:24; Acts 4:19; Ro 14:5; (i) to make a resolve, Acts 3:13; 20:16; 1Cor 2:2" (Judge - Vine's Expository Dictionary of NT Words)
Liddell-Scott (partially summarized) - To separate, put asunder, distinguish. To pick out, choose. to choose the best, passive - to be chosen out, distinguished, admit to a class, number in it (numbered among), esp.? of admitting as a competitor in games. (2) decide disputes, judge crooked judgments, they decide the question, by what do you form this judgment? b. decide a contest, e.g.? for a prize. (3) adjudge, the sum adjudged to be paid, etc, etc. (very long and detailed - if interested see original entry in L-S)
Friberg - Krino - from a basic meaning divide out or separate off; (1) as making a personal evaluation think of as better, prefer (Ro 14.5); (2) as forming a personal opinion evaluate, think, judge (Acts 13.46; (3) as reaching a personal or group decision resolve, determine, decide (Acts 16.4); (4) as passing a personal judgment on someone’s actions judge, criticize (Mt 7.1); often in a negative sense condemn, find fault with (Jas 4.11); (5) as a legal technical term; (a) in a human court judge, condemn, hand over for punishment (Jn 7.51); passive be on trial, be judged (Acts 25.10); middle/passive go to law, sue (1Cor 6.6); (b) of God’s judging judge, administer justice; with an obviously negative verdict condemn, punish (2Th 2.12); (6) Hebraistically, in a broader sense rule, govern (Lk 22.30) (Analytical Lexicon of the Greek New Testament- Barbara Friberg and Neva F. Mille Timothy Friberg).
Goodspeed - In the NT ‘to judge’ is always a translation of krinein or its compounds, although krino is frequently rendered by other words than ‘judge.’ The primary meaning of krino is to separate, put asunder . Through the derivative signification (krino can convey the sense of) to search into, to investigate. Krino came to mean to choose, prefer, determine, to decide moral questions or disputes after examination, to judge . In this last sense it is used of the authoritative decisions Christ will declare as to conduct and destiny at the general judgment of the last day. When krino is not rendered by ‘judge’ in the NT, it always involves the kindred meaning of reaching a decision, or of action consequent upon a decision. In a number of instances it means to determine to pursue the course decided upon as best. Paul had determined (krino) to sail past Ephesus (Acts 20:16); he determined not to know anything among the Corinthians save Jesus Christ and Him crucified (1Cor 2:2); not to come to them in sorrow (2Cor 2:1). The Jews denied Jesus before Pilate when he was determined (κρ?ναντος ) to let Him go (Acts 3:13 , See also Acts 24:21 , Acts 25:25 , 1Cor 7:37 ). In Mt 5:40 krino is rendered ‘go to law’ and other forms are rendered ‘condemn’ (Acts 13:27), ‘called in question’ (Acts 24:21), ‘ordained’ (Acts 16:4), ‘esteemeth’ (Ro 14:5). 1. Judging by men permitted and commended .—The right to pass judgment upon both the actions of men and their characters as manifested in their conduct is implied in the power of rational and moral discrimination which all possess. Its exercise is also made imperative by the very nature of things. Men must form an opinion not only of the quality of deeds, but also of those who do them, if there is to be the prudent and wise action in our necessary relations to others, which shall be best for us and for them. Paul recognizes this power of moral judgment in even the heathen (Ro 2:14-16). To this, truth and right conduct may confidently appeal (2Cor 4:2). He commends those who exercise it upon all moral questions, and bold fast the good it approves, and abstain from the evil it condemns (1Th 5:21-22). It is to this moral judgment that all true teaching and preaching appeal. Our Lord assumes that all have the power to know the quality of outward deeds of men, and lays down the principle that the quality of the man corresponds with that of his deeds (Mt 7:15-19), and, therefore, that we can form a right judgment of men, when the fruitage of their lives matures, however much they may seek to hide under false pretences. To this great principle of judging our Lord made frequent appeal in His controversies with the Pharisees. The Satanic conduct of these leaders proved them the children of the devil,—as having his nature (Jn 8:38-44),—while His own works made it plain He was from God (Jn 5:36; Jn 10:25 etc.). Even in Mt 7:1-5 , in connection with our Lord’s strongest condemnation of judging, it is implied (Mt 7:2; Mt 7:5) that men may judge others guilty of faults and help to cure them of the failings discovered, if they but be free enough from faults themselves to have the clearest discernment. He also censures the Jews (Lk 12:57 ) because they do not judge what is right as to the Messianic time of His preaching, as they do the signs of the sky, and are therefore in danger of arraignment and condemnation at the highest tribunal. .2. The judging which is condemned (a) That prompted by a wrong spirit. Of this kind is that forbidden by our Lord in Mt 7:1-4 . It is prompted by a critical and censorious spirit . The man possessed by this disposition subjects others to searching scrutiny to find out faults. Where even the smallest defects are discovered, he becomes so absorbed in them that he is oblivious alike of his own greater faults and the greater virtues which may be associated with the minor faults of others. Those who are critical of others in order to find something to blame, instead of being critical of themselves in order to become fitted to help them, will but bring upon themselves from God as well as from men the condemnation they are so ready to mete out to others (see also Lk 6:37). (b) Judging according to false or inadequate principles or standards. In Jn 7:23-24; cf. Jn 5:8 , our Lord condemns judging upon superficial principles —mere literal conformity to outward rules. Had the Jews seen the deeper intent of the Sabbath law, they would not have condemned Him for apparently breaking it by healing a man on that day. It was this superficial standard of judging—on literal and mere legal grounds rather than upon the deeper underlying principles—which constituted judging after the flesh rather than after the spirit. It is only the judging after the spirit that is righteous and to be commended (Jn 8:15). It is for this reason that the natural man receives not the things of the Spirit, but he that is spiritual judges (anakrino) all things (1Cor 2:14). The one has in his nature only that to which the mere outward and superficial appeals—the other has in him that in which the deepest inner principles of life and action find a response. The latter, through this sensitive response of his nature to the deepest truths, can give strict judgment as to their character. (Judging by Men - Hastings' Dictionary of the New Testament)
Complete Biblical Library Greek-English Dictionary - The basic meanings of krino include: (1) “To separate, to distinguish”; from that comes (2) “to pick, choose”; and (3) “to judge, to decide” (especially in legal contexts). Added meanings such as “to estimate, interpret,” also fall under this third category. A fourth meaning for krino is “to bring to trial” (and subsequently “condemn/ punish”). The term customarily has legal overtones, but not necessarily always. The legal sense of “to judge” is most significant in the New Testament....From the overall perspective of the Synoptic Gospels it appears that the writers integrated fully the Old Testament understanding of the Day of the Lord as well as later Jewish concepts. The concept that God would judge all men, prevalent in Pharisaic Judaism, emerges in such texts as M 7:2 (parallel Lk 6:37; cf. Lk 22:30; Mk 12:40). Judgment language may accompany the proclamation to repent (Mt 3:10) in light of the arrival of God’s Messiah. Here the coming of salvation will concomitantly bring judgment. Unless one repents and responds to God’s mercy he or she will be judged instead of saved (cf. Büchsel, ibid., 3:936, who points out how many of the parables and debates assume a consequence of judgment). (Complete Biblical Library - Greek-English Dictionary - Ralph W.; Gilbrant, Thoralf Harris)
Ralph Earle asks "What does the verb krino mean? In classical Greek it first meant "to separate, put asunder, to pick out, select, choose" (Thayer). Later it conveyed the sense: "to determine, resolve, decree," and then "to pronounce an opinion concerning right and wrong." In the passive (as here) it meant "to be judged," that is, "summoned to trial that one's case may be examined and judgment passed upon it." Thayer continues: "Where the context requires, used of condemnatory judgment, i.q. to condemn" (p. 361). Abbott-Smith notes that sometimes in the NT it is used as the equivalent of katakrino, which properly means "condemn." In fact, the simple verb krill() is translated "condemn" five times in the KJV. Arndt and Gingrich note that krino came to be used as a legal technical term meaning "judge, decide, hale before a court, condemn ... hand over for judicial punishment" (p. 452). They write: "Often the emphasis is unmistakably laid upon that which follows the Divine Judge's verdict, upon the condemnation or punishment." And so the verb comes to mean "condemn, punish" (p. 453).The doctrine of divine judgment is not a minor emphasis in the NT. In the article on krin0 in TDNT, Buechsel says of the preaching of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels: "Here the thought of judgment is central. Jesus' call to repentance is urgent because God's judgment hangs over every man" (3:936). He repudiates the modern "rationalistic criticism" which rejects the NT concept of judgment as mythical and unethical. Buechsel declares: "In face of this we must stress the fact that in the NT judgment is not capricious or emotional.... It is an inwardly necessary consequence of the sin of man" (3:940). He concludes: "The concept of judgment can-not be taken out of the NT Gospel. It cannot even be removed from the centre to the periphery. Proclamation of the love of God always pre-supposes that all men are moving towards God's judgment and are hopelessly exposed to it" (3:941). Altogether there are a dozen words which are translated "judge" or "judgment" in the KJV NT. This opens up a whole field of study in preparation for preaching on the Judgment—a topic which is surely relevant today. (Word Meanings in the New Testament)
Stephen Renn - Krino is the predominant New Testament term designating the judicial function of “judging.” This verb occurs around ninety times, though not exclusively in formal judicial settings. Krino refers to the act of judging predicated of human beings, Christ, and God. As far as human beings are concerned, the contexts of judicial function involving the use of krino are varied. There are instructions not to judge unjustly or in hypocritical self-righteousness (cf. Mt 7: 1; Ro 2: 1, 3; 14:3ff.). Jn 18:31; Acts 4:19 allude to the civil function of Jewish judges. Mt 7: 2 affirms the principle that our criteria in judging others will be applied in the same measure by God towards us. The valid right of church leaders to judge those within the church is spelled out in 1Co. 5: 3, 12. Mt 19:28; 30" class="scriptRef">Lk 22:30 refer to the anticipated heavenly privilege of judging the twelve tribes of Israel, as well as angels (6.2-1Cor.6.20" class="scriptRef">1Co. 6: 2ff.). Gentile judges are mentioned in 1Co. 6: 1, 6. In “non-judicial” contexts, krino refers to judging in the sense of passing an opinion or considering an issue (cf. Col. 2:16; 1Co. 10:29; Acts 13:46; 1Co. 10:15; 2Co. 5:14). It also expresses the idea of judging in the sense of one who exercises discernment, whether it be commendation (cf. Lk 7:43), or condemnation (cf. Lk 19:22; Ro 2:27; 2Th. 2:12). When speaking of Christ as the agent of judging, krino indicates in Jn 3:17; 12:47 that his mission lay not in “judging” (i.e., condemning) the world, but in rescuing it. Then, Jn 5:22, 30; 8:26 affirm that all divine judgment is given to the Son by God. 2Ti. 4: 1 declares that Christ’s act of judgment will be consummated at his appearing. Jn 8:16; Rev. 19:11 declare that Christ’s judgment is perfect. Krino also refers to God as the agent of judging. Such divine action is universal in its effect and includes his people as well as the nations (cf. Jn 8:50; Heb. 10:30; Acts 7: 7; 1Co. 5:13). The phenomenon of divine judgment at the end of time is highlighted with respect to “the evil ruler of this world” (Jn 16:11; Rev. 18: 8, 20) and to the world in general on the great day of judgment (Acts 17:31; Ro 3: 6; 1Pe. 4: 5; Heb. 13: 4; Rev. 11:18). God is also said to judge his people in the sense of chastising them, to avoid their ultimate condemnation (1Co. 11:32). Several texts also declare that God judges justly (cf. 1Pe. 2:23; Rev. 16: 5; 19:2). (Expository Dictionary of Bible Words- Word Studies for Key English Bible Words Based on the Hebrew and Greek Texts; Coded to the Revised Strong's Numbers)
Discern (Luke 7:43)
Judge believers (1 Peter 1:17)
Determine (Ro 14:13)
To rule or govern over people or angels (Lk 22:30, 1Cor 6:2-3)
To try another (Acts 23:3) To be on trial (Acts 23:6, Acts 24:21, Acts 25:9, 10, 20, 26:6)
Consider (Acts 26:8)
Decide (Acts 27:1, Acts 16:4, Acts 20:16, 1Cor 7:37, Titus 3:12) Having decided in Acts 21:25 means having made a judgment or determination.
Decide referring to Pilate determining after reviewing the facts of the case to release Jesus (Acts 3:13)
Of future (eschatological) judgment (Luke 22:30, John 12:47, Acts 17:31, Ro 2:16, 3:6, 2 Thessalonians 2:12, 2 Timothy 4:1, 1Peter 4:5, Revelation 11:18, 20:12, 13)
Judgment by Jesus (John 5:22, 8:15, 2Ti 4:1, Rev 19:11)
To "regard" a day (eg, like the Sabbath day) better or worse (Ro 14:5)
Condemn (Bible Dictionary) (Acts 13:27, Ro 14:22)
Pass judgment or judge a person (Ro 2:1, 3, Ro 14:3, 4, 5, 10, 13, 1Cor 4:5)
Judged in the sense of consider (Acts 16:15)
Descriptive of Satan's future judgment (that judgment being so certain) (John 16:11)
Sue (go to law, go to court) (6.1" class="scriptRef">1 Corinthians 6:1, 6, Mt 5:40)
Webster's definitions of the various synonyms -
Separate = make a distinction between.
Distinguish = to perceive a difference in: mentally separate, To ascertain and indicate difference by some external mark. The farmer distinguishes his sheep by marking their ears. The manufacturer distinguishes pieces of cloth by some mark or impression. To separate one thing from another by some mark or quality; to know or ascertain difference.
Decide = to decide, in the sense of considering two or more things and reaching a decision; to come to a conclusion in the process of thinking and thus to be in a position to make a decision; to arrive at a solution that ends uncertainty or dispute about (decide what to do) b : to select as a course of action — used with an infinitive (decided to go); to determine, as a controversy, by verdict of a jury, or by a judgment of court. We say, the court or the jury decided the cause in favor of the plaintiff, or of the defendant. To end or determine, as a dispute or quarrel.
Determine = Firmly decide. To resolve; to conclude; to come to a decision. to settle or decide (an argument, question, etc.) conclusively, as by referring to an authority. to ascertain or conclude, esp. after observation or consideration. to settle or decide by choice of alternatives or possibilities. to find out or come to a decision about by investigation, reasoning, or calculation
Discriminate - to mark or perceive the distinguishing or peculiar features of; to distinguish by discerning or exposing differences; especially : to distinguish from another like object. To distinguish; to observe the difference between; as, we may usually discriminate true from false modesty. To separate; to select from others; to make a distinction between; as, in the last judgment, the righteous will be discriminated from the wicked. To mark with notes of difference; to distinguish by some note or mark. We discriminate animals by names, as nature has discriminated them by different shapes and habits.
Condemn = to declare to be reprehensible, wrong, or evil usually after weighing evidence and without reservation. To determine or judge to be wrong, to judge as guilty. to pronounce judicial sentence on.
Judge = To compare facts or ideas, and perceive their agreement or disagreement, and thus to distinguish truth from falsehood. Judge not according to the appearance. John 7. 2. To form an opinion; to bring to issue the reasoning or deliberations of the mind. If I did not know the originals, I should not be able to judge, by the copies, which was Virgil and which Ovid. Dryden. 3. To hear and determine, as in causes on trial; to pass sentence. He was present on the bench, but could not judge in the case. The Lord judge between thee and me. Gen. 16. 4. To discern; to distinguish; to consider accurately for the purpose of forming an opinion or conclusion. Judge in yourselves; is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? 1 Cor. 11.
Click for a chart of the Greek Words for Judging (scroll down the page)
Note the frequency of usage of krino (not counting cognate derivatives) in First Corinthians.
COGNATES OF KRINO:
akatakritos (178) = uncondemned,
anakrino (350) = to judicially investigate, examine;
anakrisis (351) = a judicial examination;
apokrínomai (611) = to respond;
autokatakritos (843) = Self–condemned;
diakrino(1252), to separate thoroughly, discriminate, make to differ, judge thoroughly;
diakrisis (1253) = a distinguishing or discerning clearly;
dikaiokrisia (1341) = a judgment which renders justice;
egkríno (1469), to class with, count along, approve;
eilikrineia (1505) = purity, sincerity;
eilikrines (1506), pure, sincere;
epikríno (1948), to give sentence;
katakrima (2631) = decision against someone;
katakrino (2632) =, to judge against, condemn;
katakrisis (2633) = condemnation against someone;
krima(2917), judicial decision;
krísis (2920), judgment;
kriterion (2922) = judgment the art of judging;
krites (2923) = he who decides; a judge;
kritikos (2924) = Able to discern or decide, critical;
prokrima (4299) = decide beforehand, prefer before;
sugkríno (4793), to judge one thing comparing it with another, to interpret;
hupokrínomai (5271), to speak or act under false identity.
Krino - 114x in 98v - Note that 86 uses are used in the sense of to judge - Usage in NAS: act as...judge(1), concluded(1), condemn(1), condemning(1), considered(1), decided(8), determine(1), determined(2), go to law(1), goes to law(1), judge(42), judged(25), judges(10), judging(5), judgment(1), pass judgment(1), passes judgment(1), passing judgment(1), pronounced(1), regards(2), stand trial(2), sue(1), trial(3), tried(1), try(1).
Matthew 5:40 "If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.
Matthew 7:1 "Do not judge so that you will not be judged. 2 "For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you.
MacArthur - Krino (to judge) means basically to separate, choose, select, or determine, and has a dozen or more shades of meaning that must be decided from the context. In our present passage Jesus is referring to the judgment of motives, which no mere human being can know of another, and to judgment of external forms. Paul says, “?Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this-not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s way?” (?Ro 14:13?). The Bible consistently forbids individual or vigilante justice that assumes for itself the prerogatives of a duly established court of law. It also consistently forbids hasty judgments that do not have full knowledge of the heart or of the facts. “?He who gives an answer before he hears, it is folly and shame to him?” (?Pr 18:13?). Sometimes what appears to be wrong is nothing of the sort. (Matthew. Chicago: Moody Press)
Matthew 19:28 And Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Luke 6:37 "Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned.
Comment: The disciples are forbidden to usurp the place of God in judging and condemning other people. Jesus uses a present tense in Greek. He is telling the people not to be living on a daily basis in a judgmental mood, criticizing motives and actions without evidence. A judgmental attitude opens the door to be condemned, but one who has a pardoning spirit will find mercy and be pardoned.
Luke 7:43 Simon answered and said, "I suppose the one whom he forgave more." And He said to him, "You have judged correctly."
Luke 12:57 "And why do you not even on your own initiative judge what is right?
Luke 19:22 "He said to him, 'By your own words I will judge you, you worthless slave. Did you know that I am an exacting man, taking up what I did not lay down and reaping what I did not sow?
Luke 22:30 that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Louw-Nida - Though it would be possible to understand krino in Lk 22.30 as meaning ‘to judge’ (see 56.30), the function of the twelve disciples seems to be far greater than that. Furthermore, there seems to be a significant Semitic influence in the meaning of krino, since the corresponding Hebrew term likewise involved far more than merely making judicial decisions.
John 3:17 "For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 "He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 5:22 "For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son,
30 "I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
John 7:24 "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment."
51 "Our Law does not judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing, does it?"
John 8:15 "You judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone. 16 "But even if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone in it, but I and the Father who sent Me.
26 "I have many things to speak and to judge concerning you, but He who sent Me is true; and the things which I heard from Him, these I speak to the world."
50 "But I do not seek My glory; there is One who seeks and judges.
John 12:47 "If anyone hears My sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. 48 "He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day.
John 16:11 and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.
John 18:31 So Pilate said to them, "Take Him yourselves, and judge Him according to your law." The Jews said to him, "We are not permitted to put anyone to death,"
Acts 3:13 "The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified His servant Jesus, the one whom you delivered and disowned in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release Him.
Acts 4:19 But Peter and John answered and said to them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge;
Acts 7:7 "'AND WHATEVER NATION TO WHICH THEY WILL BE IN BONDAGE I MYSELF WILL JUDGE,' said God, 'AND AFTER THAT THEY WILL COME OUT AND SERVE ME IN THIS PLACE.'
Acts 13:27 "For those who live in Jerusalem, and their rulers, recognizing neither Him nor the utterances of the prophets which are read every Sabbath, fulfilled these by condemning Him.
46 Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, "It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first; since you repudiate it and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles.
Acts 15:19 "Therefore it is my judgment that we do not trouble those who are turning to God from among the Gentiles,
Acts 16:4 Now while they were passing through the cities, they were delivering the decrees which had been decided upon by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem, for them to observe.
15 And when she and her household had been baptized, she urged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house and stay." And she prevailed upon us.
Acts 17:31 because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead."
Acts 20:16 For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost.
Acts 21:25 "But concerning the Gentiles who have believed, we wrote, having decided that they should abstain from meat sacrificed to idols and from blood and from what is strangled and from fornication."
NET Note: Having decided refers here to the decision of the Jerusalem council (Acts 15:6–21). Mention of this previous decision reminds the reader that the issue here is somewhat different: It is not whether Gentiles must first become Jews before they can become Christians (as in Acts 15), but whether Jews who become Christians should retain their Jewish practices. Sensitivity to this issue would suggest that Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians might engage in different practices.
Acts 23:3 Then Paul said to him, "God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to try me according to the Law, and in violation of the Law order me to be struck?"
NET Note: In violation of the law. Paul was claiming that punishment was given before the examination was complete (m. Sanhedrin 3:6–8). Luke's noting of this detail shows how quickly the leadership moved to react against Paul.
Acts 23:6 But perceiving that one group were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, Paul began crying out in the Council, "Brethren, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; I am on trial for the hope and resurrection of the dead!"
Acts 24:21 other than for this one statement which I shouted out while standing among them, 'For the resurrection of the dead I am on trial before you today.'"
Acts 25:9 But Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul and said, "Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and stand trial before me on these charges?" 10 But Paul said, "I am standing before Caesar's tribunal, where I ought to be tried. I have done no wrong to the Jews, as you also very well know.
20 "Being at a loss how to investigate such matters, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there stand trial on these matters.
25 "But I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death; and since he himself appealed to the Emperor, I decided to send him.
Acts 26:6 "And now I am standing trial for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers;
8 "Why is it considered incredible among you people if God does raise the dead?
Acts 27:1 When it was decided that we would sail for Italy, they proceeded to deliver Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion of the Augustan cohort named Julius.
Romans 2:1 Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.
Wuest - The word (krino) here refers to censorious criticism and judgment. It refers to a derogatory appraisal of another’s character, the forming of a judgment of his character.
3 But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God?
12 For all who have sinned without the Law will also perish without the Law, and all who have sinned under the Law will be judged by the Law;
16 on the day when, according to my gospel, God will judge the secrets of men through Christ Jesus.
27 And he who is physically uncircumcised, if he keeps the Law, will he not judge you who though having the letter of the Law and circumcision are a transgressor of the Law?
Vine - Krino here denotes “to pronounce sentence upon.” Compare the teaching of the Lord about the men of Nineveh and the queen of the South (Matt. 12:41, 42), where, however, katakrino, “to condemn,” is used. Stress is thrown upon each word, “judge” and “thee.” (Collected writings of W. E. Vine)
Romans 3:4 May it never be! Rather, let God be found true, though every man be found a liar, as it is written, "THAT YOU MAY BE JUSTIFIED IN YOUR WORDS, AND PREVAIL WHEN YOU ARE JUDGED."
6 May it never be! For otherwise, how will God judge the world?
7 But if through my lie the truth of God abounded to His glory, why am I also still being judged as a sinner?
Romans 14:3 The one who eats is not to regard with contempt the one who does not eat, and the one who does not eat is not to judge the one who eats, for God has accepted him. 4 Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. 5 One person regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind.
10 But you, why do you judge your brother? Or you again, why do you regard your brother with contempt? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.
13 Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this-- not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way.
22 The faith which you have, have as your own conviction before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves.
1 Corinthians 2:2 For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.
1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God.
Wayne Detzler - Life is really a chain of decisions. We make big decisions such as those on career, marriage and place of residence. Of course, our commitment to Christ determines all other decisions. (Woe to the man or woman who wilfully puts things above God, and thus sells his soul!) It is this decision-making which flavours the words we are considering. The basic word krino, ‘judge’, entails decision. In Acts 16:15 Lydia asks the apostles to decide whether or not she displays spiritual life. (This is a decision we all face in Christian work.) The Lord Jesus Christ uses this word. In John 5:30 he claims that his ‘judgement is just’. He will pronounce unbiased and completely informed judgement on the human race. This is a comfort to the ‘justified’, but a terror to the unjust. Paul presents the human inability to judge in Romans 2:1: ‘You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgement on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgement do the same things.’ What insight into human life is expressed in that sentence! People are always trying to cover up their own sins by the condemnation of others. The German poet and dramatist Johann Christoph Friedrich von Schiller (1759–1805) said, ‘World history is world judgement.’ He thought all judgement took place within history, but he was wrong. God will judge evil in eternity, and this is the only comfort to downtrodden people. (Living Words in 1 Corinthians, Evangelical Press, 1983)
1 Corinthians 5:3 For I, on my part, though absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged him who has so committed this, as though I were present.
12 For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church?
13 But those who are outside, God judges. REMOVE THE WICKED MAN FROM AMONG YOURSELVES.
1 Corinthians 6:1 Does any one of you, when he has a case against his neighbor, dare to go to law before the unrighteous and not before the saints?
MacArthur - When Jesus Christ returns to set up His millennial kingdom, believers from throughout all of history will be His coregents, sitting with Him on His throne (?21" class="scriptRef">Rev. 3:21?; ?cf.? ?Dan. 7:22?). Part of our responsibility as rulers with Christ will be to judge the world. The apostles will have special authority, ruling from “?twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel?” (?Matt. 19:28?). But every believer will participate in some way. He “?who overcomes, and he who keeps My deeds until the end, to Him I will give authority over the nations; and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of the potter are broken to pieces, as I also have received authority from My Father?” (?Rev. 2:26–2?7).If the saints will one day help rule the entire earth, they surely are able to rule themselves within the church now. That future rule will be based on perfect adherence to the Word of God and proper godly attitudes, which are available now. There will not then be any different principles of wisdom and justice than we have revealed to us in Scripture now. (1 Corinthians. Chicago: Moody Press)
2 Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? If the world is judged by you, are you not competent to constitute the smallest law courts?
3 Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more matters of this life?
6 but brother goes to law with brother, and that before unbelievers?
MacArthur - The Greek (krino) for judge can also mean “?to rule or govern.?” That certainly would be the meaning if we are to have authority over the holy angels, for they will have no sin for which to be condemned. One cannot be dogmatic, but I am inclined to think that glorified believers will help judge the fallen angels and exercise some rule over the holy angels. If Christ was exalted above all the angels (?Eph 1:20–23?), if we are in Him and are like Him, and if we are to reign with Him, it must be that somehow we will share in His authority. Whatever the sphere and extent of that heavenly judgment or ruling, Paul’s point here is the same: If we are to judge and rule over the world and over angels in the age to come, we are surely able, under the guidance of Scripture and the Holy Spirit, to settle any matters of disagreement among ourselves today. (1 Corinthians. Chicago: Moody Press)
1 Corinthians 7:37 But he who stands firm in his heart, being under no constraint, but has authority over his own will, and has decided this in his own heart, to keep his own virgin daughter, he will do well.
1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; you judge what I say.
29 I mean not your own conscience, but the other man's; for why is my freedom judged by another's conscience?
- Bible
- Read the Bible
- Bible Versions
- Verse of the Day
- Reading Plans
- Verses by Topic
- Books of the Bible
- Bible Images
- Study
- Commentaries
- Concordances
- Dictionaries
- Encyclopedias
- Sermons
- Bible Atlas & Maps
- BP Wiki
- Devotionals
- Today's Devotionals
- Light of the World
- All Devotionals
- Inspirational Quotes
- More
- Picture Quotes
- Videos
- Inspirational
- Bible Study
- What The Bible Says
- Bible Q&As
- Daily Bread
- Bible by Genre
- Bible Stories
- Random Bible Verse
- Community
- Store