It is thinking the worst of somebody. That is a pretty good way to define evil surmising in everyday language. The lexicons define surmise as “to suppose, conjecture, suspect” (Vine, I:284; Thayer, 644; Moulton, 418). The Greek-English Interlinear by George R. Berry translates the word huponoia in 1 Timothy 6:4 as “wicked suspicions” (the NKJV translates it, “evil suspicions”). It is conjuring up, by way of conjecture, evil and injurious suspicions against another person. According to 1 Timothy 6:4 evil surmising is the product of pride and obsession over disputes and arguments. Its companions are envy, strife, reviling and wrangling (1 Tim 6:4-5). Without question, evil surmising is a divisive and destructive sin.

At times we are tempted to think badly of others. We know we should not do it. But, we judge a person’s motives, charge him with evil purposes and impugn his character – merely on the basis of conjecture and suspicion. “Evil surmising” names that sin. It is assuming an evil motive, attitude and/or character upon a person without sufficient evidence or accurate information. “Why did she say that?” and “Why did he do that?” can be heard, and before we know it, we answer ourselves and unjustly assign an evil intention to the person. We must abstain from this evil (1 Ths 5:22).

Jesus said, “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment” (Jno 7:24). We must be careful not to make a judgment about a person, thing or event unless and until we have the proper information from which to make a “righteous judgment”.

So, the next time you wonder why someone said or did something, instead of letting evil suspicion form your judgment about that person, do what Jesus commands and judge righteously.

If it involves a personal issue between you and another, go directly to that person to verify the facts and resolve every sin and disagreement in a godly way. Reconcile and if necessary, warn and admonish him of his sin (Matt 5:21-26; Matt 18:15; Gal 5:13-15).
If it is a public matter, get the correct information and if necessary, withstand the sinner to his face to save him and others (Gal 2:11-14).

By all means, do not carry around in your heart wicked suspicions of others. To do so betrays prideful arrogance that damages your relationship with God and with the one you ought to love as yourself (Gal 5:14). Bitterness of heart will result from evil suspicions (Eph 4:31-32).

Give others the benefit of the doubt whenever possible. Such is an action of love that overcomes the sin of evil surmising (1 Cor 13:5).
Joe R. Price