Answering The Critics!

It seems no matter what someone might do, there will always be critics in the crowd. Some might think the only way to silence the critics is to do nothing, thereby giving no grounds for accusation. However, such would also be a point of criticism. DOING nothing is not an option. As Christians we have been called TO BE light, salt, and servants.

Generally speaking, those who tend to be the most critical are not always very consistent in their criticism. We even have an example of such during the ministry of Jesus. When John the Baptist was put in prison, Jesus had an opportunity to compliment John's ministry. Jesus then drew attention to the critical attitude possessed by some who had observed both the ministry of John and of Jesus.

We read. . .
"(16) But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to their playmates, (17) 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.' (18) For JOHN CAME NEITHER EATING NOR DRINKING, and they say, 'He has a demon.' (19) THE SON OF MAN CAME EATING AND DRINKING, and they say, 'Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' YET WISDOM IS JUSTIFIED BY HER DEEDS.'" (Mathew 11:16-19 ESV)

According to Jesus' analogy of children playing in the marketplaces, such criticism is very childish. Like children who are not happy no matter what game their playmates might be playing. When such an attitude moves into adulthood, there will be actions that no matter how much explanation might be given, the critics will either just not see it, or try to read other things into it. John and Jesus were described as approaching their ministries in contrasting fashion and yet these critics accepted neither. John was a preacher in the wilderness as he prepared the way for the beginning of Jesus' ministry. Jesus, on the other hand, connected with others in a variety of social settings and was criticized for that.

How to deal with such? Jesus said, "YET WISDOM IS JUSTIFIED BY HER DEEDS." Jesus wisely continued DOING what He knew to be right and let the WISDOM OF HIS ACTIONS be the answer to His critics whether they would accept or not. Ultimately WISDOM will shine forth. May we follow the example of Jesus and maintain our focus on DOING what we know is right in the eyes of God. It is not the view of the critics, but His that matters most and such actions will still have their greatest impact on others.

Have a great day ALLOWING GODLY ACTION TO ANSWER FOR ITSELF!
Carl

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