But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, “If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to live as Jews?” Galatians 2:14
It is not easy to confront a friend, coworker, brother or sister at church, or a family member. Nevertheless, sometimes the caring and the most courageous thing we can do is to challenge somebody in a firm but loving way, and tell them they are wrong!
Paul’s integrity drove him to stand up to Peter, his fellow leader, in front of several Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians. He criticized Peter’s hypocrisy and demanded that all Christian leaders, Jews, and Gentiles, remain consistent, regardless of the company they keep. Paul teaches us how to critique someone.
- Check your motive. Your goal should be to help, not humiliate.
- Make sure the issue is worthy of criticism. Does it really matter?
- Be specific. Do not drop hints, but clearly name the problem.
- Do not undermine the individual’s self-confidence or identity. Make it evident that you value the person.
- Do not delay needed criticism. If the issue is significant, act now.
- Do not be a hypocrite. Take the log out of your own eye.
- End criticism with encouragement. Finish on a positive note.
Please understand:
Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things. Share on XSay this prayer:
Father in Heaven, please help me to daily examine my own heart and motives before I ever challenge someone else. When the need arises where confrontation is needed, may I have the courage to do so and the humility not to enjoy it. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen