Last month, one of the books I read is Pastors and Their Critics: A Guide to Coping with Criticism in Ministry by Joel Beeke and Nick Thompson. This book ministered to me personally, encouraging me to remember the biblical pattern of criticism, reminding me of times when I responded properly, and convicted me about times when I have not responded in childlike faith and humility. It also gives sound recommendations to leaders that help to cultivate a culture of constructive criticism.
In the coming week I hope to share some of the main points of the book, which counsel us to learn and grow through times of criticism. Today, I will simply list some quotes, sentences that I underlined in Part One: Biblical Foundations for Coping with Criticism, placing them under a headlined principle.
Criticism Is an Expected Cost of Leadership
While not every pastor experiences serious criticism from his people in the first months of his ministry, every pastor will meet with it sooner or later. As an old Dutch saying goes, “He who stands in the front will soon be kicked in the rear.” (p. 14)
Criticism Is Not New, God was the First Target
The chatter
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