Getting two sides of a story is a timeless principle found throughout the Bible, emphasizing wisdom, justice, and humility. The book of Proverbs is particularly direct on the subject, warning against the foolishness of making a snap judgment based on a single, one-sided account. In a world filled with information, opinions, and constant communication, this ancient wisdom is more relevant than ever.

The Foolishness of a hasty judgment

A primary text on this subject is Proverbs 18:17: "The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and cross-examines him" (ESV). This verse illustrates a principle of law, but its application extends to all our daily interactions. When we only hear one perspective—whether from a friend, a coworker, or a news source—it is natural to believe that person's account. However, wisdom requires us to pause and realize that our understanding is incomplete until we have heard from all parties involved. This wisdom suggests that a hasty judgment based on one perspective can be misleading, and true understanding requires listening to multiple accounts before reaching a conclusion. This principle is not only vital for judicial proceedings but also for personal relationships and avoiding deception. Another topic to consider, are you getting your information from the original source or secondhand? You may trust the person telling you something secondhand but what if they were deceived and told untruth? The wise choice is to do your own research, talk to all sides, get the facts so you can make your own decision on what to believe and how to move forward.

Another verse makes the consequences clear. Proverbs 18:13 states, "If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame" (ESV). Rushing to judgment not only leads us to a wrong conclusion but also brings foolishness and shame upon ourselves.

The biblical standard of justice

The importance of hearing multiple perspectives is a deeply ingrained biblical principle, foundational to justice in both the Old and New Testaments.

• The need for multiple witnesses: Old Testament law required a matter to be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses, particularly in serious accusations (Deuteronomy 19:15).
• Jesus' example: Even Jesus, during his trial, was not given a fair hearing, with the high priests and Pharisees rushing to judgment without hearing his defense (John 7:51). Nicodemus, a Pharisee, protested this unjust practice, asking, "Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?".
• A contrast with God's patience: By contrast, the Bible often showcases God's own patience in judgment, waiting for people to repent instead of moving in haste (2 Peter 3:9). This serves as our ultimate model for how to deal with others.

A call to compassionate discernment

Our call is not to be naive but to be discerning, which requires an intentional effort to understand before we react. Hearing both sides is a critical step in developing this skill.

1. Check your own biases. Before making a judgment about another person, consider the "plank" in your own eye (Matthew 7:3–5). Our own biases, experiences, and sin often cloud our judgment.
2. Pray for wisdom. Recognizing our limited perspective is a step toward humility. The apostle James encourages us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him" (James 1:5).
3. Practice patience. In a culture that demands instant reactions, patience is a countercultural and deeply Christian virtue. As we grow in maturity, we learn to be "slow to speak" and "slow to anger" (James 1:19).

For reflection

• Think of a time when you drew a conclusion about a person or situation after only hearing one perspective. How did the full story change your understanding?
• How can you intentionally practice slowing down to listen and ask clarifying questions before forming an opinion in your relationships or about current events?
• How does God's patience toward you impact the way you respond to others?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have been foolish and rushed to judgment. Grant us the humility to admit when our perspective is incomplete. Give us hearts of compassion and the wisdom to seek all sides of a story, that we may respond with grace and truth. Amen.