Why is it wrong to judge based on appearances?

Judging others by appearances often obscures the truth and fosters hypocrisy, as it fails to consider the underlying spiritual condition of a person. Jesus emphasizes in Matthew 7:1-5 that hypocrisy is contrary to the essence of true judgment. When we focus solely on external factors, we neglect our own faults, which can lead to a self-righteous attitude. This tendency not only harms our relationship with others but also misrepresents the character of Christ, who looks upon the heart rather than the outward appearance. As believers, we are called to exercise discernment—considering why someone may act a certain way rather than relying on superficial judgments.