Two kinds of criticism

I would like to follow up my last post by talking about two kinds of criticism—constructive criticism and unwarranted criticism.

The unwarranted (undue) is the one most of us know about and use regularly. I think in most cases, if not all, this kind of criticism is done for the wrong reason. Unwarranted criticism—“I want to show you how wrong you are.” This method was often used by Jews when they could not successfully answer the apostles’ preaching of Jesus Christ. In reading the book of Acts I have noticed that they often would confuse the issue by creating a smokescreen.

Constructive criticism is done out of a heart of love. I have observed this in Acts. I think Aquila and Priscilla “more perfectly” instructed Apollos out of love for the truth concerning his preaching. Parents should never give such criticism to tear the child down. Constructive criticism, on the other hand, should be done in a quiet, calm manner in order to teach the child or, shall we say, build them up. In Ephesians, Paul describes the purpose of the gospel in using the word “perfecting.” It means to build up, and in addition I found this meaning of constructive criticizing: “lacking in no essential detail.”

We all should strive to build up each other; fathers and mothers should be strong in biblical teachings so they can teach their children, and ministers should study to present a subject in a kind and loving manner so as to build up and strengthen the church and any hearers. FREDDY BOEN

Fordyce