HANDLING CRITICISM CONSTRUCTIVELY

1 Peter 4:12 KJV 1900

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

LISTEN TO IT

Proverbs 20:12 KJV 1900

The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, The Lord hath made even both of them.

Soul-Building Sermon Outlines 12 / Handling Criticism Constructively

A. Some people imitate the ostrich. They bury their heads in the sand, hoping to avoid hearing, seeing, and knowing.

B. If we are to improve a situation, we must be aware that it exists. Listen to criticism, but don’t linger over it too long.

II. Learn from It

Soul-Building Sermon Outlines 12 / Handling Criticism Constructively

A. Some people imitate the ostrich. They bury their heads in the sand, hoping to avoid hearing, seeing, and knowing.

B. If we are to improve a situation, we must be aware that it exists. Listen to criticism, but don’t linger over it too long.

LEARN FROM IT

Titus 3:14 KJV 1900

And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

Soul-Building Sermon Outlines 12 / Handling Criticism Constructively

A. Many are unwilling to learn from criticism. They stubbornly label all of it as malicious scandal and lies.

B. Christians should learn from criticism. If there is a smattering of truth in it, learn from it. Use it as a steppingstone and not a stumbling block.

LOVE THROUGH IT

1

1 Peter 4:8 KJV 1900

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

Soul-Building Sermon Outlines 12 / Handling Criticism Constructively

A. Jesus accepted criticism with love and compassion. When criticism led to His death on the cross, He prayed, “Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34).

B. We must love those who criticize us, too. Understanding and compassion will enable us to handle criticism. There is no defense against love (Gal. 5:13–14).

Galatians 5:13–14 KJV 1900

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Gal. 5:13

LIVE ABOVE IT

1 Peter 4:14 KJV 1900

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

Soul-Building Sermon Outlines 12 / Handling Criticism Constructively

A. We must not resort to quarreling or self-pity. There is victory over Satan, sinners, and self through Christ.

B. By prayer, faith, and dedication to the cause of God we can live above criticism (Isa. 40:31).

Isaiah 40:31 KJV 1900

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings as eagles; They shall run, and not be weary; And they shall walk, and not faint.