New Testament

Romans 14:10

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

What Romans 14:10 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Paul addresses the issue of judging others within the Christian community. He questions why one believer would judge or look down on another, emphasizing that all believers will ultimately face Christ's judgment. This serves as a reminder that we are not in a position to condemn others, as we all have our own shortcomings. The judgment seat of Christ signifies a time when everyone will be accountable for their actions and attitudes. Instead of focusing on the faults of others, believers should reflect on their own lives and strive for personal growth in faith. This verse encourages unity and love among believers, urging them to support one another rather than criticize. It highlights the importance of humility and understanding that we are all equal before God, who is the ultimate judge.

How to apply Romans 14:10 to your life

As believers, we should focus on our own spiritual growth rather than judging others. This means fostering an attitude of love and support within our community. When we feel tempted to criticize, we should remember that we are all accountable to Christ and strive to encourage one another instead.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of young Saul guarding the cloaks at the stoning of Stephen

Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Paul

Excavated stone ruins below the high ancient walls at the south end of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Jerusalem

David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Romans 14:10

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Romans 14:10

At a Glance — the Book of Romans

Author
Paul the apostle
Written
Around AD 57
Genre
Letter (epistle)
Original Audience
Christians in Rome

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 14:10 mean?

Romans 14:10 addresses the issue of judging fellow believers, reminding us that we will all face Christ's judgment. It encourages humility and self-reflection rather than criticism of others.

What is the meaning of the judgment seat of Christ in Romans 14:10?

The judgment seat of Christ refers to the time when all believers will be held accountable for their actions and attitudes. It emphasizes that God is the ultimate judge, and we should focus on our own lives instead of judging others.

Why does Paul say we should not judge our brother in Romans 14:10?

Paul advises against judging others because it fosters division and overlooks our own shortcomings. He emphasizes that all believers are equal before God and will ultimately answer to Him.

What themes are present in Romans 14:10?

Key themes in Romans 14:10 include judgment, unity, humility, accountability, and the importance of a supportive Christian community.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.