Should We Criticize? A Biblical Perspective on Correction and Unity in the Church

Christians find themselves with unprecedented platforms to share their thoughts, opinions, and theological insights with social media and YouTube. Pastors and Christian influencers, in particular, often use these platforms to reach their followers, offering guidance and commentary on a wide array of topics. However, this ease of communication can sometimes lead to public criticism of other pastors, ministries, or denominations, fostering a culture of division rather than unity.

To address this, it is crucial to turn to Scripture and consider how Jesus and Paul approached correction and unity within the church. Their teachings provide a clear framework for maintaining love, humility, and gentleness, even when correction is necessary. By adhering to these biblical principles, Christians can navigate the complexities of modern communication while upholding the unity and witness of the church.

Biblical Principles Against Criticism

1. Unity and Love:

   • John 13:34-35: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

   • Ephesians 4:29: "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."

2. Jesus commands His followers to love one another as a testimony to the world. Criticism and divisive talk can harm this witness and the unity of the church.

3. Humility and Gentleness:

   • Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others."

   • Galatians 6:1: "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted."

4. Paul encourages a spirit of humility and gentleness in dealing with others, especially when correcting someone.

5. Avoiding Judgmental Attitudes:

   • Matthew 7:1-5: "Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye?"

   • Romans 14:10-13: "Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God... Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother."

6. Jesus and Paul both teach against a judgmental attitude, emphasizing self-reflection and avoiding causing others to stumble.

Examples of Jesus and Paul's Approach to Correction

1. Jesus' Approach:

   • John 8:1-11: When dealing with the woman caught in adultery, Jesus did not condemn her but instead said, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her." After her accusers left, He told her, "Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more."

   • Matthew 18:15-17: Jesus outlines a process for dealing with sin within the church that emphasizes privacy and reconciliation over public shaming: "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother."

2. Jesus prioritized mercy, reconciliation, and private correction over public condemnation. Notice that Jesus speaks directly to the person.

3. Paul's Approach:

   • 1 Corinthians 5:1-5: Paul addresses a case of immorality in the church of Corinth. He instructs the church to deal with the issue, but his goal is restorative: "you are to deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord."

   • 2 Corinthians 2:5-8: Paul later urges the church to forgive and comfort the repentant sinner, "so that he may not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. So I beg you to reaffirm your love for him."

4. Paul addresses serious issues within the church but always with the intent of restoration and love.

5. Paul speaks in the office of Apostle and overseer of the church where he brings guidance.

While there are times when correction and discernment are necessary within the church, it must be done in a spirit of love, humility, and gentleness. The biblical examples of Jesus and Paul emphasize private correction, restoration, and unity rather than public criticism and division. By following these principles, Christians can uphold the integrity of the church and demonstrate the love of Christ to the world.

Pastors and Christian leaders, in particular, bear the responsibility of modeling these behaviors, refraining from public criticism of other pastors or denominations. Instead, they should strive to foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding, promoting the unity and strength of the body of Christ.

Jesus' Direct Approach to Religious Leaders: Pharisees and Sadducees

While Jesus emphasized love, unity, and humility in His teachings, He also demonstrated a bold and direct approach when addressing the religious leaders of His time, particularly the Pharisees and Sadducees. His interactions with them provide valuable insights into how to confront hypocrisy and error without compromising the principles of love and truth.

Examples of Jesus' Rebukes:

Matthew 23:13-36: In this passage, often referred to as the "Seven Woes," Jesus directly criticizes the Pharisees and scribes for their hypocrisy, legalism, and failure to genuinely lead the people. He declares, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!" multiple times, highlighting their outward appearance of righteousness while being corrupt internally. Jesus rebukes their behavior that hinders others from entering the kingdom of heaven, emphasizes their misplaced priorities, and condemns their practice of appearing righteous while being full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

Matthew 15:1-9: Jesus confronts the Pharisees and scribes for placing their traditions above God's commandments. He quotes Isaiah, saying, "This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men." This confrontation underscores the importance of true worship and obedience to God's commands over human traditions.

Luke 11:37-54: During a meal at a Pharisee's house, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their concern with outward cleanliness while neglecting the inner purity of their hearts. He also rebukes the lawyers (experts in the Law) for burdening the people with difficult requirements without offering help.

Principles Derived from Jesus' Approach:

1. Confront Hypocrisy Directly:

   • Jesus did not shy away from directly addressing the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. His rebukes were clear and unequivocal, aimed at exposing the inconsistencies between their outward appearances and inner realities.

2. Prioritize God's Commands Over Human Traditions:

   • He emphasized the importance of adhering to God's commandments rather than human traditions, highlighting the need for genuine obedience and worship.

3. Expose Injustice and Legalism:

   • Jesus consistently pointed out the injustices and legalistic practices of the Pharisees and Sadducees, advocating for a more compassionate and just approach to leadership and worship.

4. Call for Inner Purity and Sincerity:

   • His critiques often focused on the need for inner purity and sincerity in worship and obedience, rather than merely maintaining outward appearances.

Next Steps

How to Pray for Others and Promote Unity

1. Reflect on Scriptural Guidance:

   • Unity and Love: Meditate on John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:29, understanding that love and edifying speech are crucial in maintaining unity.

   • Humility and Gentleness: Contemplate Philippians 2:3-4 and Galatians 6:1 to approach others with humility and gentleness.

   • Avoiding Judgment: Study Matthew 7:1-5 and Romans 14:10-13 to avoid judgmental attitudes and focus on self-reflection.

2. Personal Prayer and Reflection:

   • Ask for Guidance: Pray for wisdom and discernment (James 1:5) to navigate conflicts and disagreements.

   • Seek a Heart of Love: Ask God to fill your heart with His love and compassion for others (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

   • Confess and Repent: Regularly confess your own shortcomings and seek God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9), fostering humility.

3. Private Correction and Reconciliation:

   • One-on-One Approach: Follow Matthew 18:15 by addressing issues privately with the individual, aiming for reconciliation rather than public confrontation.

   • Use a Gentle Approach: Approach the conversation with gentleness and respect, as outlined in Galatians 6:1.

   • Focus on Restoration: Keep the goal of restoration and unity at the forefront, inspired by Paul's instructions in 2 Corinthians 2:5-8.

4. Intercessory Prayer for Others:

   • Pray for Wisdom: Ask God to grant wisdom and guidance to pastors, leaders, and fellow believers (Ephesians 1:17-19).

   • Pray for Unity: Pray for unity within the church, that all believers may be one in Christ (John 17:20-23).

   • Pray for Restoration: Lift up those who have fallen or are struggling, asking for their restoration and growth in faith (James 5:16).

5. Modeling Christ-like Behavior:

   • Lead by Example: Demonstrate humility, love, and gentleness in your interactions, both online and offline.

   • Promote Positive Dialogue: Encourage constructive and loving conversations within your community and on social media.

   • Support and Encourage: Be a source of encouragement and support to others, fostering a positive and uplifting environment.

6. Practical Steps for Online Conduct:

   • Think Before You Post: Before posting or commenting, ask yourself if your words will build up or tear down (Ephesians 4:29).

   • Focus on the Positive: Share messages that promote unity, love, and encouragement, avoiding divisive or critical content.

   • Respond with Grace: When faced with criticism or conflict, respond with grace and patience, seeking to understand and reconcile rather than escalate.

7. Engage in Community and Fellowship:

   • Join a Small Group: Participate in small group discussions to foster deeper relationships and accountability.

   • Attend Church Regularly: Engage in regular worship and fellowship with your church community to strengthen your faith and unity with others.

   • Serve Together: Participate in service projects and ministry activities that promote teamwork and mutual support.

8. Seek Mentorship and Accountability:

   • Find a Mentor: Seek guidance from a more mature believer who can provide wisdom and accountability.

   • Be Accountable: Establish relationships where you can hold each other accountable in maintaining loving and humble behavior.

By incorporating these steps, believers can cultivate an environment of love, humility, and unity within the church. Emphasizing private correction, intercessory prayer, and Christ-like behavior will help uphold the integrity and witness of the church in a modern context.

1 Corinthians speaks to the gift of prophecy and how the church should operate as a body with spiritual gifts. Listen to the reading HERE.