Text: "Do not judge, or you too will be judged" (Matthew 7:1).
Object: A black robe. Use a baptismal, clerical, or academic robe; or rent one from a theatrical supply store.
Action: I entered the service wearing a black robe. This was an unusual sight to a non-liturgical congregation. The robe built curiosity. After explaining the text, I refered to the robe saying, "This is not a clerical robe worn for a religious service. This is not an academic robe worn during commencement activities. This is a judge's robe. Jesus tells us not to judge each other. In obedience to him, we must take off our judge's robe."
Then I dramatically removed the robe and tossed it aside, calling the congregation to "get rid of that robe."
Purpose: To demonstrate our need to put aside our judgmental attitudes.
