Sunday Morning Series - Learn to Discern - Is It Ever Right to Criticize?

Text:  Various

We an learn from the times God gave criticism/correction to those in service to Him. There's good criticism (correction) and bad criticism (correction). Let's look at three guiding principles:

1.  Foundation - Good criticism is based on God's Word and what He's spoken to you. Bad criticism is based on feelings.

2.  Function - Good criticism always has a purpose - either something to benefit you or a group you're with.

3.  Forum - Public, private, personal. The forum will always be lesser than where the problem occurs.

We will call this the what, why, and where.

Criticism Toward God

Numbers 21:4-7 - It would seem the Lord did not like this. The Israelites are criticizing Moses and God. When you get discouraged, you may end up finding fault with even the blessings of God. This type of criticism had no foundation in the Word, no beneficial purpose, and was done in the wrong forum (very public).

Criticism Toward Church Leaders

1.  Saul, David, and Solomon are examples of leaders who stop listening for a time. Leaders are called by God and are answerable to Him. God sent His prophets to correct them. This refers to those who are called by God to their positions of leadership.

2.  Self-appointed leaders, who are not under anyone's authority, do not come under this heading. Don't listen to them.

3.  Moses was criticized by Jethro and God.  Exodus 18:13-24 - Jethro observed how Moses sat daily hearing the people's questions/cases regarding the Law. In private, he not only told Moses he was wearing himself and the people out, but also gave him a solution. This passed all three tests of foundation (the Word of God), function/purpose - it was beneficial to all concerned, and forum - he spoke to Moses in private.

To hear more guiding principles and how we are to respond toward government leaders, please visit our website, and click on the Listen Tab. You can listen online, download the message to your MP3 player, or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to Zoe Christian Fellowship. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Route 611), in Warrington, PA  18976. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We look forward to meeting you!