John Calvin Commentary Romans 14:12

"So then each one of us shall give account of himself to God." — Romans 14:12 (ASV)

Every one of us, etc. This conclusion invites us to humility and lowliness of mind; and therefore he immediately draws this inference—that we are not to judge one another; for it is not lawful for us to wrongfully assume the office of judging, as we must ourselves submit to be judged and to give an account.

From the various senses of the word "to judge," he has aptly drawn two different meanings. In the first place, he forbids us to judge, that is, to condemn; in the second place, he instructs us to judge, that is, to exercise judgment, so as not to give offense. He indeed indirectly rebukes those malicious critics, who employ all their keenness in finding out something faulty in the life of their fellow believers. He therefore instructs them to exercise caution themselves, because by their neglect they often push or drive their fellow believers against some stumblingblock or another.