Definition and Context
Compassion in judgment refers to the exercise of mercy and understanding when making decisions or passing judgment on others. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where God's justice is often tempered with mercy, and believers are called to emulate this divine attribute in their interactions with others.

Biblical Foundation
The Bible presents God as the ultimate judge who embodies both justice and compassion. In Exodus 34:6-7, God reveals Himself to Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth, maintaining loving devotion to a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin. Yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished..." . This passage highlights the balance between God's justice and His compassion.

Old Testament Examples
In the Old Testament, the concept of compassion in judgment is evident in the laws given to Israel. For instance, the Mosaic Law includes provisions for the poor and vulnerable, ensuring that justice is administered with mercy. Leviticus 19:15 instructs, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly" . This command underscores the importance of fairness tempered with compassion.

The account of King Solomon's judgment in 1 Kings 3:16-28 also illustrates compassion in judgment. When two women claimed to be the mother of a living child, Solomon's wise and compassionate approach revealed the true mother, demonstrating the importance of discernment and mercy in judgment.

New Testament Teachings
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies compassion in judgment. In John 8:1-11, the account of the woman caught in adultery, Jesus challenges those without sin to cast the first stone, ultimately showing mercy to the woman while admonishing her to "sin no more" (John 8:11). This incident highlights the balance between upholding moral standards and extending grace.

Jesus' teachings further emphasize compassion in judgment. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs, "Do not judge, or you will be judged. For with the same measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Matthew 7:1-2). This teaching encourages believers to exercise humility and mercy in their judgments, recognizing their own need for grace.

Apostolic Guidance
The apostles continue this theme in their writings. James 2:13 states, "For judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment" . This verse underscores the principle that mercy should prevail in the administration of justice, reflecting God's own character.

Paul, in his epistles, also advocates for compassion in judgment. In Galatians 6:1, he advises, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted" . This counsel highlights the need for gentleness and self-awareness when addressing the faults of others.

Practical Application
Believers are called to reflect God's compassion in their judgments, both within the church and in broader society. This involves a commitment to justice that is informed by love and mercy, recognizing the dignity and worth of every individual. By doing so, Christians bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, which reconciles justice and mercy through the cross of Christ.