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Pastors and Their Critics: A Guide to Coping with Criticism in the Ministry
Every pastor knows what it’s like to be criticized. But how does he respond? And how does he offer constructive criticism of his own? With wisdom, charity, and a wealth of personal illustrations, Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson answer these questions and more. The Bible is full of critics, and it gives us practical principles for responding to criticism, offering criticism, and creating a healthy church culture. As Beeke and Thompson unfold a theological vision for coping with criticism in the gospel ministry, you will be strengthened, encouraged, and equipped.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2020
64 people are currently reading
393 people want to read
About the author
Joel R. Beeke
445 books345 followersDr. Joel R. Beeke serves as President and Professor of Systematic Theology, Church History, and Homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. He has been in the ministry since 1978 and has served as a pastor of his current church, Heritage Reformed Congregation, since 1986. He is also editor of the Banner of Sovereign Grace Truth, editorial director of Reformation Heritage Books, president of Inheritance Publishers, and vice-president of the Dutch Reformed Translation Society. He has written, co-authored, or edited fifty books and contributed over fifteen hundred articles to Reformed books, journals, periodicals, and encyclopedias. His Ph.D. (1988) from Westminster Theological Seminary is in Reformation and Post-Reformation Theology. He is frequently called upon to lecture at Reformed seminaries and to speak at conferences around the world. He and his wife, Mary, have three children: Calvin, Esther, and Lydia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
December 9, 2022
Great book for any Christian to read if they are submitting to the authority of elders (as they should be). This book not only helps the members of a church to understand what their pastor goes through but also helps us to know how to deal with criticism in our lives.
September 7, 2024
Although this book is primarily directed to pastors and the church ministry, I think many of the principles apply to all people; in confronting criticism, and being a constructive critic yourself. The authors speak of receiving, and giving criticism in humility and wisdom. Using many real-life and relatable examples, they practically applied the points pressed. This was a very helpful and encouraging book!
January 3, 2022
This was a very practical book for those in ministry. It not only gives wonderful, God glorifying advice on how to deal with criticism in ministry, but also on how to wisely give constructive criticism to others. Recommended.
April 24, 2025
ch. 4 on humility is golden
September 24, 2025
The one criticism I have with this book is that it didn't talk about how to respond to criticism on Goodreads.
February 15, 2024
An excellent book, both practical and theologically informed.
March 25, 2025
Criticism of any kind can deal a death blow to each of us if unprepared. This book goes through practical ways to deal with criticism, how to grow from it, and further love thy neighbor in such situations, just as the Lord has loved us.
Easy read.
Easy read.
December 29, 2022
Read this as a session. Really good, from theological and biblical grounding for handling criticism to practical application.
October 16, 2022
When I was ordained in May, 2006, I would have been surprised that regular and persistent criticism would be one of the most challenging aspects of ministry. It’s not that other pastors didn’t try to warn me. I just was arrogant enough to think I could keep everyone happy.
The folly of youth.
If you are a pastor, you will face criticism. It doesn’t matter if you lead a small church, a big church, a denominational church, or a non-denominational church.
Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson wrote “Pastors and Their Critics” as an encouragement to pastors everywhere. They navigate the biblical story of criticism, consider how to receive criticism, and suggest how to offer criticism.
Criticism is not a contemporary phenomenon. It’s as old as the Garden of Eden. “Unjust criticism is woven like a black thread throughout covenant history.” Satan attacked God’s “generosity and his integrity.” God understands what it is to have his people groan at him. Beeke and Thompson carry the thread of criticism from the Garden of Eden to Moses, through the biblical narrative to Jesus.
Our suffering Messiah understands our rejection. “The meekness and gentleness of Christ are not signs of weakness, but of great inner strength, for only a mightily spiritual warrior could rule his own spirit under such provocation.”
Beeke and Thompson tell us that we need criticism to grow in our Christian life. They suggest that critics don’t know the depth of our “When we are honest, we realize that our critics do not bring us low enough.” We cannot underestimate our own pride nor the lengths God will go to unroot it in us. “Pride is not satisfied, however, with its own high estimation, but wants all the world to join in praising and adoring the self.” They continue, “Due to the nature of pride, we ought to be aiming and praying for Christ-appreciation and self-deprecation—even self-annihilation—so that genuine humility would be cultivated in us and our wicked pride would be mortified.”
God uses criticism to humble us. The double-truth is that criticism is inevitable. “If you proclaim the whole counsel of God as you should, you are bound to become a target of criticism because the truths you declare are offensive to fallen humanity.”
We must recognize, though, that criticism comes with temptation. When criticism comes our heart can flare up in pride, self-justification, self-centeredness, and bitterness. We must be careful of a cold or indifferent heart.
These temptations will come, but we are called to look like Christ. We are to love our enemies. “A prideful pastor is a contradiction in terms. The very title minister means servant.” Criticism ought to press us to Christ and prayer. Pray for compassion. Pray for empathy. Respond with mercy.
Like it or not, every pastor is enrolled in the school of criticism. “But the reality is that we need failure—and so do our churches. Failure is an important component of spiritual maturation. It grounds us in reality. It humbles us.” Beeke and Thompson's book was timely, coming out of a particularly challenging season and was a balm to my soul.
For more reviews see www.thebeehive.live.
The folly of youth.
If you are a pastor, you will face criticism. It doesn’t matter if you lead a small church, a big church, a denominational church, or a non-denominational church.
Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson wrote “Pastors and Their Critics” as an encouragement to pastors everywhere. They navigate the biblical story of criticism, consider how to receive criticism, and suggest how to offer criticism.
Criticism is not a contemporary phenomenon. It’s as old as the Garden of Eden. “Unjust criticism is woven like a black thread throughout covenant history.” Satan attacked God’s “generosity and his integrity.” God understands what it is to have his people groan at him. Beeke and Thompson carry the thread of criticism from the Garden of Eden to Moses, through the biblical narrative to Jesus.
Our suffering Messiah understands our rejection. “The meekness and gentleness of Christ are not signs of weakness, but of great inner strength, for only a mightily spiritual warrior could rule his own spirit under such provocation.”
Beeke and Thompson tell us that we need criticism to grow in our Christian life. They suggest that critics don’t know the depth of our “When we are honest, we realize that our critics do not bring us low enough.” We cannot underestimate our own pride nor the lengths God will go to unroot it in us. “Pride is not satisfied, however, with its own high estimation, but wants all the world to join in praising and adoring the self.” They continue, “Due to the nature of pride, we ought to be aiming and praying for Christ-appreciation and self-deprecation—even self-annihilation—so that genuine humility would be cultivated in us and our wicked pride would be mortified.”
God uses criticism to humble us. The double-truth is that criticism is inevitable. “If you proclaim the whole counsel of God as you should, you are bound to become a target of criticism because the truths you declare are offensive to fallen humanity.”
We must recognize, though, that criticism comes with temptation. When criticism comes our heart can flare up in pride, self-justification, self-centeredness, and bitterness. We must be careful of a cold or indifferent heart.
These temptations will come, but we are called to look like Christ. We are to love our enemies. “A prideful pastor is a contradiction in terms. The very title minister means servant.” Criticism ought to press us to Christ and prayer. Pray for compassion. Pray for empathy. Respond with mercy.
Like it or not, every pastor is enrolled in the school of criticism. “But the reality is that we need failure—and so do our churches. Failure is an important component of spiritual maturation. It grounds us in reality. It humbles us.” Beeke and Thompson's book was timely, coming out of a particularly challenging season and was a balm to my soul.
For more reviews see www.thebeehive.live.
January 4, 2023
Excellent book.
I leave its pages encouraged by the pastoral and biblical wisdom, convicted for how I have handled conflict and criticism poorly up to this point, challenged to do better in my care and service of others, and reminded of the necessity (as an under-shepherd) to rely upon and trust in the Good Shepherd for strength, wisdom, boldness, and kindness, in caring for the sheep and bringing God glory above all else.
Filled with practical wisdom and biblical encouragement, this book will provide a path toward a healthier pastoral ministry and a better way forward in both receiving and giving criticism for anyone in the church.
I leave its pages encouraged by the pastoral and biblical wisdom, convicted for how I have handled conflict and criticism poorly up to this point, challenged to do better in my care and service of others, and reminded of the necessity (as an under-shepherd) to rely upon and trust in the Good Shepherd for strength, wisdom, boldness, and kindness, in caring for the sheep and bringing God glory above all else.
Filled with practical wisdom and biblical encouragement, this book will provide a path toward a healthier pastoral ministry and a better way forward in both receiving and giving criticism for anyone in the church.
May 12, 2025
This was excellent and I will probably read it again in the future! Very helpful reference for receiving and giving criticism in ministry.
December 13, 2022
A truly challenge perspective on how we ought to handle criticism that is relevant for all Christians, not just pastors.
October 7, 2020
This is no "poor me" book on receiving criticism. It is convicting, equipping, and refreshing. It brims with biblical wisdom played out "on the street."
After two chapters on biblical foundations for coping with criticism, the authors move on to practical principles for coping with criticism: 1) Recieve criticism realistically 2) Humbly 3) Respond with sober judgment 4) with grace.
The 3rd part of the book was refreshingly unexpected. The authors present practical principles for constructive criticism in the church. These two chapters focus on the pastor giving constructive criticism to others and how to go about cultivating a church culture open to constructive critique.
The final chapter helpfully zeros in on a theological vision for coping with criticism. Anyone desiring to be more like Christ will finish this book hating sin more (his own and others), filled with biblically grounded hope in the gospel, and longing to see criticism be used by the Lord for the flourishing of his people, not by Satan for the destruction of Christ's church.
After two chapters on biblical foundations for coping with criticism, the authors move on to practical principles for coping with criticism: 1) Recieve criticism realistically 2) Humbly 3) Respond with sober judgment 4) with grace.
The 3rd part of the book was refreshingly unexpected. The authors present practical principles for constructive criticism in the church. These two chapters focus on the pastor giving constructive criticism to others and how to go about cultivating a church culture open to constructive critique.
The final chapter helpfully zeros in on a theological vision for coping with criticism. Anyone desiring to be more like Christ will finish this book hating sin more (his own and others), filled with biblically grounded hope in the gospel, and longing to see criticism be used by the Lord for the flourishing of his people, not by Satan for the destruction of Christ's church.
January 14, 2022
An excellent book that every seminarian, pastor, and even believer should read. The biblical theology portion of the beginning chapters tracing criticism through Scripture in a redemptive-historical fashion is worth the price alone. Also makes good distinction between destructive and constructive criticism. Has good insight and application for learning how to handle criticism of the destructive kind as well as be open to the constructive kind.
March 30, 2025
As a chronic people-pleaser, this book was really helpful in preparing me for facing criticism. However, they used the KJV in their scripture references. I think a modern translation would have made it easier for me to read.
August 18, 2021
When I was ordained in May, 2006, I would have been surprised that regular and persistent criticism would be one of the most challenging aspects of ministry. It’s not that other pastors didn’t try to warn me. I just was arrogant enough to think I could keep everyone happy.
The folly of youth.
If you are a pastor, you will face criticism. It doesn’t matter if you lead a small church, a big church, a denominational church, or a non-denominational church.
Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson wrote “Pastors and Their Critics” as an encouragement to pastors everywhere. They navigate the biblical story of criticism, consider how to receive criticism, and suggest how to offer criticism.
Criticism is not a contemporary phenomenon. It’s as old as the Garden of Eden. “Unjust criticism is woven like a black thread throughout covenant history.” Satan attacked God’s “generosity and his integrity.” God understands what it is to have his people groan at him. Beeke and Thompson carry the thread of criticism from the Garden of Eden to Moses, through the biblical narrative to Jesus.
Our suffering Messiah understands our rejection. “The meekness and gentleness of Christ are not signs of weakness, but of great inner strength, for only a mightily spiritual warrior could rule his own spirit under such provocation.”
Beeke and Thompson tell us that we need criticism to grow in our Christian life. They suggest that critics don’t know the depth of our “When we are honest, we realize that our critics do not bring us low enough.” We cannot underestimate our own pride nor the lengths God will go to unroot it in us. “Pride is not satisfied, however, with its own high estimation, but wants all the world to join in praising and adoring the self.” They continue, “Due to the nature of pride, we ought to be aiming and praying for Christ-appreciation and self-deprecation—even self-annihilation—so that genuine humility would be cultivated in us and our wicked pride would be mortified.”
God uses criticism to humble us. The double-truth is that criticism is inevitable. “If you proclaim the whole counsel of God as you should, you are bound to become a target of criticism because the truths you declare are offensive to fallen humanity.”
We must recognize, though, that criticism comes with temptation. When criticism comes our heart can flare up in pride, self-justification, self-centeredness, and bitterness. We must be careful of a cold or indifferent heart.
These temptations will come, but we are called to look like Christ. We are to love our enemies. “A prideful pastor is a contradiction in terms. The very title minister means servant.” Criticism ought to press us to Christ and prayer. Pray for compassion. Pray for empathy. Respond with mercy.
Like it or not, every pastor is enrolled in the school of criticism. “But the reality is that we need failure—and so do our churches. Failure is an important component of spiritual maturation. It grounds us in reality. It humbles us.” Beeke and Thompson's book was timely, coming out of a particularly challenging season and was a balm to my soul.
For more reviews see www.thebeehive.live.
The folly of youth.
If you are a pastor, you will face criticism. It doesn’t matter if you lead a small church, a big church, a denominational church, or a non-denominational church.
Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson wrote “Pastors and Their Critics” as an encouragement to pastors everywhere. They navigate the biblical story of criticism, consider how to receive criticism, and suggest how to offer criticism.
Criticism is not a contemporary phenomenon. It’s as old as the Garden of Eden. “Unjust criticism is woven like a black thread throughout covenant history.” Satan attacked God’s “generosity and his integrity.” God understands what it is to have his people groan at him. Beeke and Thompson carry the thread of criticism from the Garden of Eden to Moses, through the biblical narrative to Jesus.
Our suffering Messiah understands our rejection. “The meekness and gentleness of Christ are not signs of weakness, but of great inner strength, for only a mightily spiritual warrior could rule his own spirit under such provocation.”
Beeke and Thompson tell us that we need criticism to grow in our Christian life. They suggest that critics don’t know the depth of our “When we are honest, we realize that our critics do not bring us low enough.” We cannot underestimate our own pride nor the lengths God will go to unroot it in us. “Pride is not satisfied, however, with its own high estimation, but wants all the world to join in praising and adoring the self.” They continue, “Due to the nature of pride, we ought to be aiming and praying for Christ-appreciation and self-deprecation—even self-annihilation—so that genuine humility would be cultivated in us and our wicked pride would be mortified.”
God uses criticism to humble us. The double-truth is that criticism is inevitable. “If you proclaim the whole counsel of God as you should, you are bound to become a target of criticism because the truths you declare are offensive to fallen humanity.”
We must recognize, though, that criticism comes with temptation. When criticism comes our heart can flare up in pride, self-justification, self-centeredness, and bitterness. We must be careful of a cold or indifferent heart.
These temptations will come, but we are called to look like Christ. We are to love our enemies. “A prideful pastor is a contradiction in terms. The very title minister means servant.” Criticism ought to press us to Christ and prayer. Pray for compassion. Pray for empathy. Respond with mercy.
Like it or not, every pastor is enrolled in the school of criticism. “But the reality is that we need failure—and so do our churches. Failure is an important component of spiritual maturation. It grounds us in reality. It humbles us.” Beeke and Thompson's book was timely, coming out of a particularly challenging season and was a balm to my soul.
For more reviews see www.thebeehive.live.
October 26, 2020
As the authors note in the introduction, no one is immune from criticism, and that goes especially for pastors. This book was written to assist pastors in rightly handling--and benefiting from--criticism. Written by a very experienced pastor (Beeke) and a recent seminary graduate wants desires to be a pastor (Thompson), this book gives a healthy perspective to pastors young and old.
The book begins by giving Biblical foundations for handling criticism, using the examples of Moses, David, and Nehemiah from the Old Testament and Jesus from the New Testament. It goes on to give practical principles for coping with criticism; specifically, receiving criticism realistically and humbly, and responding to criticism with sober judgment and grace.
Those sections alone are very helpful. But the authors go on to explain how the pastor should give criticism to others, and how to cultivate a church culture in which constructive criticism can be profitably given and received. Elders can benefit from this section particularly well (although I would suggest they can benefit from the entire book). The last chapter gives some theological perspectives to the pastor to help him in handling and responding to criticism.
The book contains an appendix written by Nick Thompson, in which he gives ten suggestions for the seminarian to prepare himself while in seminary for dealing with criticism. This is must reading for every seminary student, and I would argue that he should read the appendix first and then read the rest of the book.
Pastors obviously can benefit greatly from this short but helpful book. Elders and other church leaders can also benefit, both in terms of how they handle criticism and how they help the pastor handle it. Finally, I suggest that any church member can benefit from this book. I wouldn't say that pastors should never be criticized, but if you are going to criticize your pastor, do it in a godly and helpful way. And if you are criticized by your pastor, receive it in a godly and submissive way.
This book can help us care for the souls of those who are caring for our souls as their daily ministry.
The book begins by giving Biblical foundations for handling criticism, using the examples of Moses, David, and Nehemiah from the Old Testament and Jesus from the New Testament. It goes on to give practical principles for coping with criticism; specifically, receiving criticism realistically and humbly, and responding to criticism with sober judgment and grace.
Those sections alone are very helpful. But the authors go on to explain how the pastor should give criticism to others, and how to cultivate a church culture in which constructive criticism can be profitably given and received. Elders can benefit from this section particularly well (although I would suggest they can benefit from the entire book). The last chapter gives some theological perspectives to the pastor to help him in handling and responding to criticism.
The book contains an appendix written by Nick Thompson, in which he gives ten suggestions for the seminarian to prepare himself while in seminary for dealing with criticism. This is must reading for every seminary student, and I would argue that he should read the appendix first and then read the rest of the book.
Pastors obviously can benefit greatly from this short but helpful book. Elders and other church leaders can also benefit, both in terms of how they handle criticism and how they help the pastor handle it. Finally, I suggest that any church member can benefit from this book. I wouldn't say that pastors should never be criticized, but if you are going to criticize your pastor, do it in a godly and helpful way. And if you are criticized by your pastor, receive it in a godly and submissive way.
This book can help us care for the souls of those who are caring for our souls as their daily ministry.
December 17, 2024
The best parts of this book were those on the OT foundations and Christological foundations for coping with criticism. This book complements Rigney's Leadership and Emotional Sabotage well in that 1) the foundations sections of this book are clearer than Rigney's use of Shakespeare for the average guy, and 2) this book also offers practical advice on how to offer constructive critique because of the authors' aim.
Also see Crabtree's Practicing Affirmation.
Helpful Spurgy quote: “Brother, if any man thinks ill of you, do not be angry with him; for you are worse than he thinks you to be. If he charges you falsely on some point, yet be satisfied, for if he knew you better he might change the accusation, and you would be no gainer by the correction. If you have your moral portrait painted and it is ugly, be satisfied; for it only needs a few blacker touches and it would be still nearer the truth.”
Also see Crabtree's Practicing Affirmation.
Helpful Spurgy quote: “Brother, if any man thinks ill of you, do not be angry with him; for you are worse than he thinks you to be. If he charges you falsely on some point, yet be satisfied, for if he knew you better he might change the accusation, and you would be no gainer by the correction. If you have your moral portrait painted and it is ugly, be satisfied; for it only needs a few blacker touches and it would be still nearer the truth.”
May 26, 2022
This book is full of great practical advice and real-world examples. There's a lot to learn here, and a few things that convicted me personally.
In the introduction, the authors insist that, while this book was written with pastors in mind, they hope it will be useful to laymen as well. I think the principles are certainly broad enough to be applicable, but all of the illustrations are limited to the ministry, which honestly may hinder its usefulness to some laypersons.
It took several chapters for me to get used to Beeke's citations from the KJV. Switching back-and-forth between contemporary and early-modern English felt like whiplash. While I do have an appreciation for the KJV, I found its use here distracting.
All-in-all, this is a solid book.
In the introduction, the authors insist that, while this book was written with pastors in mind, they hope it will be useful to laymen as well. I think the principles are certainly broad enough to be applicable, but all of the illustrations are limited to the ministry, which honestly may hinder its usefulness to some laypersons.
It took several chapters for me to get used to Beeke's citations from the KJV. Switching back-and-forth between contemporary and early-modern English felt like whiplash. While I do have an appreciation for the KJV, I found its use here distracting.
All-in-all, this is a solid book.
July 13, 2023
The life experiences shared in this book provide a in-depth understanding of a pastors heart and wrestle behind the scenes. This is a book worth reading for anyone who wishes to understand the emotional and spiritual challenges pastors and all those in ministry go through. I would even say, if congregational members read this book, we may even see more honour towards those in eldership positions. Also, those considering being a teaching elder would be more prepared for the difficulties ahead. Nevertheless, the joys of pastoral ministry were expressed greatly in this book, presenting a strong case that God’s grace is sufficient, even when under great criticism of others.
September 13, 2022
Perhaps the best resource on ministerial criticism
The authors do a fantastic job of detailing a few of the common fears and insecurities of pastors as well as common reasons people tend to criticise. With not a few examples of historical figures and their engagement with critics, the authors ably and convincingly encourage today’s pastors to take up their cross and follow Christ and to enjoy their fundamental union with him.
The authors do a fantastic job of detailing a few of the common fears and insecurities of pastors as well as common reasons people tend to criticise. With not a few examples of historical figures and their engagement with critics, the authors ably and convincingly encourage today’s pastors to take up their cross and follow Christ and to enjoy their fundamental union with him.
January 16, 2023
Good stuff. Read it as a session. Provides theological and practical information on how to cope with criticism in ministry. I think even lay people would find the book useful.
December 9, 2023
Outstanding! Every seminary student and pastor should read. Humbling, engaging, and encouraging.
November 3, 2024
Practical and God honoring. Thoughtful and thought provoking.
February 20, 2025
Great read. Points the reader to the gospel and teaches him how to rely on the gospel when facing criticism.
July 21, 2021
sehr gut. sehr hilfreich.
Part 1: Biblical Foundations for Coping with Criticism
1. Old Testament Foundations for Coping with Criticism
→ über Gott: "Who was the first target of unjust criticism? The answer may surprise you. The earliest appearance of character-distorting verbal abuse was actually in the garden of Eden. And the object of this destructive criticism was God Himself." (page 19-20)
"When we are criticized, even falsely so, there is usually at least a sliver of truth in what is being said. (...) But not so with God." (21)
→ über Mose: "Before responding to his critics, however, it is notable that in both instances Moses first went to God. (...) We must be slow to rebuke our critics and quick to humble ourselves before God in earnest prayer. God vindicated His servants in response to their petitions." (26)
→ über David: (1) "First, David remembered God’s sovereignty over all things" (28) & (2) he "responded meekly because he entrusted himself to God’s omniscient mercy and overruling justice":
"A real test of the godliness of our response to criticism is how we treat our enemies after the tables are turned—when they no longer have power over us, but we over them (see Ps. 141:5–6)." (30)
→ über Nehemia: "“The first thing we should know,” advises James Boice, “if we are trying to do something worthwhile and are being opposed, is that it is because we are achieving something.” Satan rarely attacks our spiritual failures—he does not need to." (33)
2. Christological Foundations for Coping with Criticism
→ über Jesu Vorbild: "Just when we would expect Christ to be consumed with fear and concern for His own safety, His heart overflowed with love for others." (46) "The weight of His sorrows could press nothing out of His holy soul except faith in His God and love for His neighbor." (50)
→ über die Psalmen: "His prayers also commend to us praying the Psalms. The Psalms present us with the full anatomy S 51 of Christian experience, as Calvin observed." (50–51)
Part 2: Practical Principles for Coping with Criticism
3. Receive Criticism Realistically
→ Kritik ist unausweichlich, also sollten wir besser darauf vorbereitet sein: "As the saying goes, “To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, be nothing.” Gospel ministry could be summed up in doing, saying, and being, all in a peculiarly public manner." (56)
→ von Spurgeon: “Brother, if any man thinks ill of you, do not be angry with him; for you are worse than he thinks you to be. If he charges you falsely on some point, yet be satisfied, for if he knew you better he might change the accusation, and you would be no gainer by the correction. If you have your moral portrait painted and it is ugly, be satisfied; for it only needs a few blacker touches and it would be still nearer the truth.” (57)
→ von Wesely: "John Wesley once questioned in his journal whether he was truly right with God since he had received no criticism for the entire day!" (59)
→ eine Anekdote: "I will never forget a visit with Ernie Riesinger, a veteran pastor of considerable wisdom, who asked me a few years after I was settled in one of my pastorates, “How are things going for you?” I replied, “I really don’t know, brother. It seems like people either hate me or love me.” With a strong slap on my knee, he said, “That’s great! It means you’re getting through to your sheep. If you’re getting through to them, few will feel neutral toward you. They’ll either reject your message, or testify that it feeds their souls.”" (59)
4. Receive Criticism Humbly
(A) HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE YOUR GOD
→ mit Stephen Charnock: “A proud faith is as much a contradiction as a humble devil.”
The main reason why we are so puffed up with self is that we have little spiritual perception of God in His glory. As Calvin famously remarked, “man is never sufficiently touched and affected by the awareness of his lowly state until he has compared himself with God’s majesty.” Low views of God promote high views of self, whereas high views of God help us see our true state." (72)
→ über stolze Pastoren: "A prideful pastor is a contradiction in terms. The very title minister means servant—a humble Christ and a proud Christian servant have nothing to do with each other." (73)
(B) HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE YOUR CRITIC
→ "Receiving criticism humbly may conjure up images of a weak and timid pushover who is always being taken advantage of. That is not what we are advocating. True humility exudes a certain strength and confidence. It is not the might of self-sufficiency; it is a confident strength in the sufficiency of God and His grace. The truly humble person fears God." (75)
→ "Christlike humility liberates us from ourselves to fix our attention on God and others. In our reception of criticism, it will manifest itself in at least three ways: inclining your ear, inspecting your heart, and involving others." (76)
5. Respond with Sober Judgment
→ BE PRAYERFUL: "As Charles Bridges wrote, “Prayer is one half of our ministry; and it gives to the other half all its power and success.” Thus, the godly pastor will strive to take hold both of himself and of God in prayer. He will take hold of himself by remembering the priority and value of prayer, by showing sincerity in his prayers, by cultivating a continual spirit of prayer, by striving for balance in his prayers, and by praying earnestly for others—including his critics!" (86)
"What explains Simeon’s perseverance? He was a man who knew his God. It was said of him that he woke up every day at four o’clock in the morning to spend the first four hours of his day in prayer and the devotional reading of the Word. He had a sober mind. And thus, when asked by a friend how he withstood persecution from his own flock for so many years, Simeon responded, “My dear brother, we must not mind a little suffering for Christ’s sake.”" (87)
"The priority of our praying should be souls, not situations. Yes, there is a place to pray for your circumstances, but the condition of the hearts involved in those circumstances should have precedence." (91)
→ BE PATIENT
→ BE PRUDENT
→ The sober mind that is girded up with prayerfulness, patience, and prudence brings great glory to God and good to His church in the face of criticism. (99)
6. Respond with Grace
→ KEEP A CLEAN CONSCIENCE UNDER GRACE
→ ENROLL IN THE GRACIOUS SCHOOL OF CRITICISM: "The fires of criticism also remind us just how needy we really are. We are prone to grow quite self-sufficient. We can carry out our ministerial duties with little sense of our profound poverty of spirit. But when criticism comes, it exposes our weaknesses and sins. And by so doing, it impresses on us our acute need of the gospel. Criticism is a God-given impetus to intensify our grip on Christ. Oh how desperately we stand in need of His righteousness and His empowering grace!" (11)
→ EMBRACE THE CRITIC WITH GRACE: "Matthew Henry provides us with a wise example of how to use compassion. When a thief robbed his wallet, he thanked the Lord that it was only his wallet that was taken and not his life, and that he was the one robbed rather than the robber. Compassion helps us to take the focus off “poor me” and to put the focus on the genuinely poor, negative, and destructive critic." (115)
Part 3: Practical Principles for Constructive Criticism in the Church
7. Giving Constructive Critique to Others
→ Of the modes of persuasion furnished by the spoken word there are three kinds. The first kind depends on the personal character [ethos] of the speaker; the second kind on putting the audience into a certain frame of mind [pathos]; the third on proof, or apparent proof, provided by the words of the speech itself [logos].” Constructive criticism is more than persuasion, but it is not less than persuasion. (122–123)
→ THE ETHOS OF CRITICISM: "When criticizing others, our minds are prone to focus almost exclusively on logos—the point we are making, the evidence undergirding our critique, and the rightness of our position." (123)
→ John Brown writes, “If a teacher of Christianity be regarded by his people with reverence and love, as really ‘honest in the sacred cause,’ firmly believing every statement he makes, exemplifying in his own character and conduct every virtue and duty he recommends, truly desirous of promoting their spiritual improvement and ultimate salvation, truth from his lips is likely to prevail with double sway, attention will be readily yielded, and conviction, instead of being resisted, will be welcomed, and obedience cheerfully rendered.”
Our people are always watching us. It only takes one public sin to lose their confidence, but it takes many years of integrity to gain it." (124–125)
→ An Affirming Ministry: "Our people need to have a deep sense that we are on their side. If they perceive us as faultfinders rather than encouragers, we have failed. The pastor must criticize when necessary, but he is not a resident critic. Our ministries ought to be suffused with positive affirmation of our people. Without it, our attempts to correct or rebuke them will be in vain. Sam Crabtree encourages us, “Behave in such a consistently affirming way that when correction must be made, there is no mistake in the recipient’s mind that you are for him and not against him.” The ministry is full of opportunities for this; we just need eyes to see them.
• Keep your eyes open for all the little, often unnoticed ways your congregants serve the church. Take the time to call or write a card thanking and encouraging them in their work. When appropriate, publicly affirm them for their service.
• Keep your eyes open for signs of growth and transformation in the lives of your people. Where you see real spiritual change, even if it be minor, make sure to verbally affirm it.
• Keep your eyes open for those who are particularly downcast and tempted to despair. Meet them in their darkness and spur them on with encouraging words concerning the ways you see God’s grace at work in their lives and circumstances.
• Keep your eyes open for ways your congregants can help you. When you have a decision to make, seek out their advice. When you have a particular need that corresponds S 127 to their expertise, ask for help. These kinds of requests go a long way in affirming the value of our people." (126–127)
→ THE PATHOS OF CRITICISM: When the people see that you unfeignedly love them,” explains Richard Baxter, “they will hear any thing and bear any thing from you.” (127)
→ Jonathan Edwards is a helpful and convicting guide at this point: “Resolved, Never to say anything at all against any body, but when it is perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honor, and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility, and sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the golden rule; often, when I have said anything against any one, to bring it to, and try it strictly by, the test of this Resolution.” (128)
→ Emphasize the Consequences: "Third, sanctified pathos comes about by helping our people see the consequences of their errors. Our sinful beliefs and actions are never without repercussions. Helping people to grasp those repercussions can go a long way toward using our criticism for their growth." (130)
→ THE LOGOS OF CRITICISM: "Without possessing personal holiness (ethos) and the hearts of our people (pathos), the most carefully constructed argument will get us nowhere." (132)
8. Cultivating a Church Culture Open to Constructive Critique
→ PREACH CHRIST: "A healthy church culture is one where verbal critique is neither dominant nor absent. Garrett Kell sums this up well: “What we don’t want to do is create a culture of critics who are constantly eyeing one another for mistakes. But what we do want to see is a church deepen in their love and care for one another so much that they are willing to engage in deep, painful, graceful, helpful, character-shaping conversations that will bring God much glory.” Is not this culture of loving critique a wonderful aspiration to have for your congregation? When the church rightly relates to criticism, it brings great glory to God and great good to man." (138)
→ "The gospel humbles us lower than the most scathing human criticism, but it simultaneously exalts us into God’s gracious favor so that the negative appraisal of our fellow man no longer devastates us." (140)
→ PRAY CONTINUOUSLY
→ PLEAD GUILTY
→ PROVIDE PLATFORMS OR CONTEXTS
→ PLAN BIG: "
A church with a culture of healthy criticism is a church that is not afraid to fail. It is a church that has been delivered from the bondage of perfectionism. As shepherds, we need to have a vision that reaches beyond our own abilities and resources. We need to plan big. If our vision for the church does not leave room for potential failure, then it is too small. Craig Hamilton writes, “If you can always jump over the bar it’s because it’s too low. If a person hits 100% of their goals and plans, that’s probably a good indicator that they’re playing it safe.” If you play it safe as a church leader, you are unknowingly fostering a church culture that is averse to criticism.
What will your people think of you if, after recognizing the church is deficient in evangelistic outreach, you develop a plan to reach the community and it utterly fails? They will most likely criticize. But is it not worth the risk? Is it not incumbent on you as a pastor to seek to turn your congregation outward in evangelism? And is it not better to fail trying than not to try at all?
Our people need to see that we are not afraid of failing in our endeavors for Christ. If we live in the fear of failure, it is most likely because we fear criticism. We want to appear successful. We don’t want our congregants or fellow ministers to see our weaknesses. But the reality is that we need failure—and so do our churches. Failure is an important component of spiritual maturation. It grounds us in reality. It humbles us, reminding us of our S 147 weakness and our need of Christ. And it delivers our churches from being insulated in a mirage of self-conceit. A church that is not afraid to fail is usually a church that is not afraid of criticism. So plan big, knowing that God will use even your failures to adorn the church with humble Christlikeness." (146–147)
→ CULTIVATE PATIENCE
Part 4: Theological Vision for Coping with Criticism
9. Reorient Your Perspective
→ A GOD-GLORIFYING VISION: "John Murray describes the soul that fears God as one in which “God is constantly in the center of our thought and apprehension, and life is characterized by the all-pervasive consciousness of dependence upon him and S 153 responsibility to him.” Is God continually at the forefront of our vision? Do we know this “all-pervasive consciousness of dependence upon [God] and responsibility to him”?" (152–153)
→ A CHURCH-BUILDING VISION: "Though Paul suffered greatly for the well-being of the church at Corinth, they had become his hostile critics through the influence of false teachers. Second Corinthians is his astonishing response to this unfavorable situation. He writes, “And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved” (2 Cor. 12:15). Even if lavishing love on the Corinthians meant that he would be loved less by them, he would continue to pour himself out on their behalf. Think about that. If as you pour yourself out in self-giving love, people grow more and more to despise you, would you continue to love nonetheless?" (155)
→ "If your faithfulness is bearing fruit in the lives of God’s people, who cares if you are opposed? Continue to press on. Lift your vision above yourself and your circumstances and remember the reason why Christ has commissioned you to the ministry in the first place—to serve and build up His people." (157)
→ "We love our own lives more than the perishing multitudes around us. We S 158 are content with them heading to eternal destruction so long as we may remain comfortable." (157–158)
→ A JUDGMENT-DAY VISION: "A vision of the last day will not only produce a holy watchfulness over our conduct, but it will also bring criticism into its proper perspective. Responding to the opposition of the Corinthians, Paul writes, “But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court” (1 Cor. 4:3 ESV).
(159)
→ AN OTHERWORLDLY VISION: "One reason why the scowls of our fellow man have such a crippling affect on us is because we are far too fixated on this present life." (161)
Part 1: Biblical Foundations for Coping with Criticism
1. Old Testament Foundations for Coping with Criticism
→ über Gott: "Who was the first target of unjust criticism? The answer may surprise you. The earliest appearance of character-distorting verbal abuse was actually in the garden of Eden. And the object of this destructive criticism was God Himself." (page 19-20)
"When we are criticized, even falsely so, there is usually at least a sliver of truth in what is being said. (...) But not so with God." (21)
→ über Mose: "Before responding to his critics, however, it is notable that in both instances Moses first went to God. (...) We must be slow to rebuke our critics and quick to humble ourselves before God in earnest prayer. God vindicated His servants in response to their petitions." (26)
→ über David: (1) "First, David remembered God’s sovereignty over all things" (28) & (2) he "responded meekly because he entrusted himself to God’s omniscient mercy and overruling justice":
"A real test of the godliness of our response to criticism is how we treat our enemies after the tables are turned—when they no longer have power over us, but we over them (see Ps. 141:5–6)." (30)
→ über Nehemia: "“The first thing we should know,” advises James Boice, “if we are trying to do something worthwhile and are being opposed, is that it is because we are achieving something.” Satan rarely attacks our spiritual failures—he does not need to." (33)
2. Christological Foundations for Coping with Criticism
→ über Jesu Vorbild: "Just when we would expect Christ to be consumed with fear and concern for His own safety, His heart overflowed with love for others." (46) "The weight of His sorrows could press nothing out of His holy soul except faith in His God and love for His neighbor." (50)
→ über die Psalmen: "His prayers also commend to us praying the Psalms. The Psalms present us with the full anatomy S 51 of Christian experience, as Calvin observed." (50–51)
Part 2: Practical Principles for Coping with Criticism
3. Receive Criticism Realistically
→ Kritik ist unausweichlich, also sollten wir besser darauf vorbereitet sein: "As the saying goes, “To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, be nothing.” Gospel ministry could be summed up in doing, saying, and being, all in a peculiarly public manner." (56)
→ von Spurgeon: “Brother, if any man thinks ill of you, do not be angry with him; for you are worse than he thinks you to be. If he charges you falsely on some point, yet be satisfied, for if he knew you better he might change the accusation, and you would be no gainer by the correction. If you have your moral portrait painted and it is ugly, be satisfied; for it only needs a few blacker touches and it would be still nearer the truth.” (57)
→ von Wesely: "John Wesley once questioned in his journal whether he was truly right with God since he had received no criticism for the entire day!" (59)
→ eine Anekdote: "I will never forget a visit with Ernie Riesinger, a veteran pastor of considerable wisdom, who asked me a few years after I was settled in one of my pastorates, “How are things going for you?” I replied, “I really don’t know, brother. It seems like people either hate me or love me.” With a strong slap on my knee, he said, “That’s great! It means you’re getting through to your sheep. If you’re getting through to them, few will feel neutral toward you. They’ll either reject your message, or testify that it feeds their souls.”" (59)
4. Receive Criticism Humbly
(A) HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE YOUR GOD
→ mit Stephen Charnock: “A proud faith is as much a contradiction as a humble devil.”
The main reason why we are so puffed up with self is that we have little spiritual perception of God in His glory. As Calvin famously remarked, “man is never sufficiently touched and affected by the awareness of his lowly state until he has compared himself with God’s majesty.” Low views of God promote high views of self, whereas high views of God help us see our true state." (72)
→ über stolze Pastoren: "A prideful pastor is a contradiction in terms. The very title minister means servant—a humble Christ and a proud Christian servant have nothing to do with each other." (73)
(B) HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE YOUR CRITIC
→ "Receiving criticism humbly may conjure up images of a weak and timid pushover who is always being taken advantage of. That is not what we are advocating. True humility exudes a certain strength and confidence. It is not the might of self-sufficiency; it is a confident strength in the sufficiency of God and His grace. The truly humble person fears God." (75)
→ "Christlike humility liberates us from ourselves to fix our attention on God and others. In our reception of criticism, it will manifest itself in at least three ways: inclining your ear, inspecting your heart, and involving others." (76)
5. Respond with Sober Judgment
→ BE PRAYERFUL: "As Charles Bridges wrote, “Prayer is one half of our ministry; and it gives to the other half all its power and success.” Thus, the godly pastor will strive to take hold both of himself and of God in prayer. He will take hold of himself by remembering the priority and value of prayer, by showing sincerity in his prayers, by cultivating a continual spirit of prayer, by striving for balance in his prayers, and by praying earnestly for others—including his critics!" (86)
"What explains Simeon’s perseverance? He was a man who knew his God. It was said of him that he woke up every day at four o’clock in the morning to spend the first four hours of his day in prayer and the devotional reading of the Word. He had a sober mind. And thus, when asked by a friend how he withstood persecution from his own flock for so many years, Simeon responded, “My dear brother, we must not mind a little suffering for Christ’s sake.”" (87)
"The priority of our praying should be souls, not situations. Yes, there is a place to pray for your circumstances, but the condition of the hearts involved in those circumstances should have precedence." (91)
→ BE PATIENT
→ BE PRUDENT
→ The sober mind that is girded up with prayerfulness, patience, and prudence brings great glory to God and good to His church in the face of criticism. (99)
6. Respond with Grace
→ KEEP A CLEAN CONSCIENCE UNDER GRACE
→ ENROLL IN THE GRACIOUS SCHOOL OF CRITICISM: "The fires of criticism also remind us just how needy we really are. We are prone to grow quite self-sufficient. We can carry out our ministerial duties with little sense of our profound poverty of spirit. But when criticism comes, it exposes our weaknesses and sins. And by so doing, it impresses on us our acute need of the gospel. Criticism is a God-given impetus to intensify our grip on Christ. Oh how desperately we stand in need of His righteousness and His empowering grace!" (11)
→ EMBRACE THE CRITIC WITH GRACE: "Matthew Henry provides us with a wise example of how to use compassion. When a thief robbed his wallet, he thanked the Lord that it was only his wallet that was taken and not his life, and that he was the one robbed rather than the robber. Compassion helps us to take the focus off “poor me” and to put the focus on the genuinely poor, negative, and destructive critic." (115)
Part 3: Practical Principles for Constructive Criticism in the Church
7. Giving Constructive Critique to Others
→ Of the modes of persuasion furnished by the spoken word there are three kinds. The first kind depends on the personal character [ethos] of the speaker; the second kind on putting the audience into a certain frame of mind [pathos]; the third on proof, or apparent proof, provided by the words of the speech itself [logos].” Constructive criticism is more than persuasion, but it is not less than persuasion. (122–123)
→ THE ETHOS OF CRITICISM: "When criticizing others, our minds are prone to focus almost exclusively on logos—the point we are making, the evidence undergirding our critique, and the rightness of our position." (123)
→ John Brown writes, “If a teacher of Christianity be regarded by his people with reverence and love, as really ‘honest in the sacred cause,’ firmly believing every statement he makes, exemplifying in his own character and conduct every virtue and duty he recommends, truly desirous of promoting their spiritual improvement and ultimate salvation, truth from his lips is likely to prevail with double sway, attention will be readily yielded, and conviction, instead of being resisted, will be welcomed, and obedience cheerfully rendered.”
Our people are always watching us. It only takes one public sin to lose their confidence, but it takes many years of integrity to gain it." (124–125)
→ An Affirming Ministry: "Our people need to have a deep sense that we are on their side. If they perceive us as faultfinders rather than encouragers, we have failed. The pastor must criticize when necessary, but he is not a resident critic. Our ministries ought to be suffused with positive affirmation of our people. Without it, our attempts to correct or rebuke them will be in vain. Sam Crabtree encourages us, “Behave in such a consistently affirming way that when correction must be made, there is no mistake in the recipient’s mind that you are for him and not against him.” The ministry is full of opportunities for this; we just need eyes to see them.
• Keep your eyes open for all the little, often unnoticed ways your congregants serve the church. Take the time to call or write a card thanking and encouraging them in their work. When appropriate, publicly affirm them for their service.
• Keep your eyes open for signs of growth and transformation in the lives of your people. Where you see real spiritual change, even if it be minor, make sure to verbally affirm it.
• Keep your eyes open for those who are particularly downcast and tempted to despair. Meet them in their darkness and spur them on with encouraging words concerning the ways you see God’s grace at work in their lives and circumstances.
• Keep your eyes open for ways your congregants can help you. When you have a decision to make, seek out their advice. When you have a particular need that corresponds S 127 to their expertise, ask for help. These kinds of requests go a long way in affirming the value of our people." (126–127)
→ THE PATHOS OF CRITICISM: When the people see that you unfeignedly love them,” explains Richard Baxter, “they will hear any thing and bear any thing from you.” (127)
→ Jonathan Edwards is a helpful and convicting guide at this point: “Resolved, Never to say anything at all against any body, but when it is perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honor, and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility, and sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the golden rule; often, when I have said anything against any one, to bring it to, and try it strictly by, the test of this Resolution.” (128)
→ Emphasize the Consequences: "Third, sanctified pathos comes about by helping our people see the consequences of their errors. Our sinful beliefs and actions are never without repercussions. Helping people to grasp those repercussions can go a long way toward using our criticism for their growth." (130)
→ THE LOGOS OF CRITICISM: "Without possessing personal holiness (ethos) and the hearts of our people (pathos), the most carefully constructed argument will get us nowhere." (132)
8. Cultivating a Church Culture Open to Constructive Critique
→ PREACH CHRIST: "A healthy church culture is one where verbal critique is neither dominant nor absent. Garrett Kell sums this up well: “What we don’t want to do is create a culture of critics who are constantly eyeing one another for mistakes. But what we do want to see is a church deepen in their love and care for one another so much that they are willing to engage in deep, painful, graceful, helpful, character-shaping conversations that will bring God much glory.” Is not this culture of loving critique a wonderful aspiration to have for your congregation? When the church rightly relates to criticism, it brings great glory to God and great good to man." (138)
→ "The gospel humbles us lower than the most scathing human criticism, but it simultaneously exalts us into God’s gracious favor so that the negative appraisal of our fellow man no longer devastates us." (140)
→ PRAY CONTINUOUSLY
→ PLEAD GUILTY
→ PROVIDE PLATFORMS OR CONTEXTS
→ PLAN BIG: "
A church with a culture of healthy criticism is a church that is not afraid to fail. It is a church that has been delivered from the bondage of perfectionism. As shepherds, we need to have a vision that reaches beyond our own abilities and resources. We need to plan big. If our vision for the church does not leave room for potential failure, then it is too small. Craig Hamilton writes, “If you can always jump over the bar it’s because it’s too low. If a person hits 100% of their goals and plans, that’s probably a good indicator that they’re playing it safe.” If you play it safe as a church leader, you are unknowingly fostering a church culture that is averse to criticism.
What will your people think of you if, after recognizing the church is deficient in evangelistic outreach, you develop a plan to reach the community and it utterly fails? They will most likely criticize. But is it not worth the risk? Is it not incumbent on you as a pastor to seek to turn your congregation outward in evangelism? And is it not better to fail trying than not to try at all?
Our people need to see that we are not afraid of failing in our endeavors for Christ. If we live in the fear of failure, it is most likely because we fear criticism. We want to appear successful. We don’t want our congregants or fellow ministers to see our weaknesses. But the reality is that we need failure—and so do our churches. Failure is an important component of spiritual maturation. It grounds us in reality. It humbles us, reminding us of our S 147 weakness and our need of Christ. And it delivers our churches from being insulated in a mirage of self-conceit. A church that is not afraid to fail is usually a church that is not afraid of criticism. So plan big, knowing that God will use even your failures to adorn the church with humble Christlikeness." (146–147)
→ CULTIVATE PATIENCE
Part 4: Theological Vision for Coping with Criticism
9. Reorient Your Perspective
→ A GOD-GLORIFYING VISION: "John Murray describes the soul that fears God as one in which “God is constantly in the center of our thought and apprehension, and life is characterized by the all-pervasive consciousness of dependence upon him and S 153 responsibility to him.” Is God continually at the forefront of our vision? Do we know this “all-pervasive consciousness of dependence upon [God] and responsibility to him”?" (152–153)
→ A CHURCH-BUILDING VISION: "Though Paul suffered greatly for the well-being of the church at Corinth, they had become his hostile critics through the influence of false teachers. Second Corinthians is his astonishing response to this unfavorable situation. He writes, “And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved” (2 Cor. 12:15). Even if lavishing love on the Corinthians meant that he would be loved less by them, he would continue to pour himself out on their behalf. Think about that. If as you pour yourself out in self-giving love, people grow more and more to despise you, would you continue to love nonetheless?" (155)
→ "If your faithfulness is bearing fruit in the lives of God’s people, who cares if you are opposed? Continue to press on. Lift your vision above yourself and your circumstances and remember the reason why Christ has commissioned you to the ministry in the first place—to serve and build up His people." (157)
→ "We love our own lives more than the perishing multitudes around us. We S 158 are content with them heading to eternal destruction so long as we may remain comfortable." (157–158)
→ A JUDGMENT-DAY VISION: "A vision of the last day will not only produce a holy watchfulness over our conduct, but it will also bring criticism into its proper perspective. Responding to the opposition of the Corinthians, Paul writes, “But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court” (1 Cor. 4:3 ESV).
(159)
→ AN OTHERWORLDLY VISION: "One reason why the scowls of our fellow man have such a crippling affect on us is because we are far too fixated on this present life." (161)
June 7, 2025
This book provides a biblical perspective, solid advice, and practical examples for giving and receiving criticism in the church. It is readable and reliable, humbling and helpful.
November 9, 2023
There are some books entirely full of platitudes and feel good-isms to offer temporary motivation. This book is not one of them. Deeply convicting and biblical. Probably 30-40 different sections worth further meditation on. Beeke is direct and soul-searching, while being remarkably pastoral. Definitely should be read by more than just pastors.
February 3, 2025
Good book on the topic
January 17, 2023
Not my favorite book that we have read as a staff. It might be that we are in a sweet season at my church lacking extreme/harsh criticism, but I didnt take away a lot from this book. There were certainly a few helpful tips but I also feel this book is written towards seasoned pastors with several years of ministry under their belts who are experiencing hardship and have just lost sight of how to deal with criticism but not necessarily aimed toward anyone else below that experience level. Still helpful overall but certainly not my favorite. Not sure if I would recommend to very many people unless it's the only resource available.
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