Become New with John Ortberg 15. Give Up Condemnation for Lent
Feb 16, 2026
A call to stop carrying condemnation and the practice of refusing to have the last word. A memorable story about Dallas Willard modeling silence under insult. Reflections on Jesus’ response to accusation and how love can replace blame. A 40-day Lenten invitation to release judgment and practice living in love.
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Discipline Of Not Having The Last Word
- Dallas Willard chose silence instead of rebuttal when a rude student attacked his teaching.
- He called it practicing the discipline of not having the last word and modeled restraint over being right.
Silence As A Spiritual Strategy
- Jesus remained silent under accusation as recorded in all four Gospels, modeling trust beyond proving oneself.
- That silence shows a power greater than vindication and rejects condemnation as the first response.
Learn Non-Condemning From Role Models
- Notice role models who live without condemning to learn the practice more easily.
- Seek to be immersed and motivated by love rather than using condemnation to punish or control.
