Question from a reader:

Is discernment and concern for biblical orthodoxy too quickly categorized as being judgmental?

Answer from Randy Alcorn:

It’s sad to live in an era where discernment among Christians and concern for biblical orthodoxy is at an all-time low. People automatically assume any critical thinking bringing Scripture to bear on a subject or issue must always come out of a judgmental spirit or desire to win a doctrinal fight. One has to qualify and backpedal so much to avoid misunderstanding that it’s hard to make a point.

In my opinion some of the most judgmental thinking surfaces when someone makes the accusation of being judgmental—as if that accusation is the only one immune to being made with a judgmental spirit. Often people try sincerely to make a point from Scripture only to be shut down or dismissed because “there are many other ways to look at it.” Sure, but are those other ways subject to biblical authority? (Acts 17:11). Open-mindedness in the face of clear biblical revelation ceases to be a virtue.