Pastor’s Page

Handling Criticism

At the turn of the year I came across an excellent article on handling criticism by John Newton, strangely entitled ‘On Controversy’. I heartily commend the reading of this article. You will find it at: http://www.opc.org/nh.html?article_id=217

Being criticised is a very unpleasant experience.  It crushes our hearts. We feel a sense of injustice, we feel sorry for ourselves and if left unsolved (at least in our own minds) it can easily lead to pride, concluding that ‘he/she doesn’t know what they are talking about’.

So how can we best handle criticism?

Consider Yourself

TRUTH - Ask yourself; is there any truth in what is being said? There is usually some truth, especially when the criticism comes from friends.

HUMILITY – Beware of trying to win the argument and at the same time losing our humility which the Lord delights in.

When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 1 Peter 2:23

Consider Your Opponent

PRAYING for them; asking for the Lord to teach and bless them. This will help soften our hearts towards and gain the Lord’s help.

LOVING them. John Newton is worth quoting here; “The Lord loves him and bears with him; therefore you must not despise him, or treat him harshly. The Lord bears with you likewise, and expects that you should show tenderness to others, from a sense of the much forgiveness you need yourself”.
He then goes on to say (something which I personally found very helpful); “In a little while you will meet in heaven; he will then be dearer to you than the nearest friend you have upon earth is to you now. Anticipate that period in your thoughts; and though you may find it necessary to oppose his errors, view him personally as a kindred soul, with whom you are to be happy in Christ forever."

Consider Others

WITNESSING - Conflict between fellow Christians is not good and although the public are not great theologians, they understand the fruits of the Spirit…..love, patience, kindness, goodness……self-control.  If criticism is not handled correctly, the public will conclude that the Gospel is ineffective and Christians are no different from anyone else.

John Lowrie
Pastor