One Another ... NOT!
In the list of “one anothers” sprinkled throughout the New Testament, there are several negative ones that we are encouraged NOT to do. Read through them for a moment:

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. -- (Titus 3:3)

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way. -- (Romans 14:13)

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices... -- (Colossians 3:9)

Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. -- (James 4:11)

If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. -- (Galatians 5:15)

Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. -- (Galatians 5:26)

Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! -- (James 5:9)

As Christians, it is important to remind ourselves of our identity, of who we are. In Christ, we...
are not the same people we used to be
have been forgiven
have a new nature
have the indwelling Holy Spirit
However, we also still have the “flesh” - the capacity to choose to live life apart from God's power. When we do that, our lives look like...
“sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.” -- (Galatians 5:19-21)
...instead of the fruit of the Spirit...
“...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” -- (Galatians 5:22-23)

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way. -- (Romans 14:13)

This verse is the conclusion to a discussion in Romans 14:1-12 about Christians criticizing each other. What is the subject of that discussion?


What principles can you find in that passage that apply to us?


What kinds of things do Christians tend to judge each other over today?


How do you tend to judge others?

This verse also needs to be seen in its Biblical context to fully understand its impact. Read James 3:1-12: what does he say there about how our words affect one another?


Perhaps you heard the old phrase growing up: “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but.....” According to Proverbs 12:18 and 18:8, is that statement true?


Have you ever been badly hurt by gossip?

Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. -- (James 5:9)

The definition of “grumble” or “murmur” is ... “a half-suppressed or muttered complaint, a low indistinct but often continuous sound.” Does that ring a bell?


How did “grumbling” affect the nation of Israel in Exodus 16:1-12?


How does “grumbling” affect the church?

Discussion Questions:

1. What personality type is the opposite of you?

2. Have you ever felt judged? What did it do to you?

3. Have you ever “had somebody all wrong” - you misunderstood them, criticized them, even spoke badly about them behind their back - then got to know what they were really like?

4. Are you “grumbling” about someone or something in the church right now? What would it take to make you stop?