Episode 132: Symptoms of A Critical Church Culture

Episode 132: Symptoms of A Critical Church Culture

 

 

Many of our churches in the United States have developed a critical culture

 

Criticism - a Critical Cricket

                    a Fault Finder

                    an Idea Incinerator

                    a Results Rebel (never good enough)

 

A critical spirit tears down those around us and robs us of our own ability to enjoy life. When we become overly critical, we miss out on the beauty that God has placed in this world. Small blessings go unnoticed, and we stop being thankful. Overcoming a critical spirit requires gratefulness, a willingness to forgive, an accurate understanding of God’s grace (it’s free!), an intentional refocusing of our thoughts, and a commitment to share the truth in love.

 

Complaining - inner 2 year old wants something

 

what happens to a critical church

 

1. The church is made up of people.  So when people are complainers and critical - it spreads like a cancer. 

 

2. It runs people off - because it makes people uncomfortable

               folks don't like conflict

               it runs pastors off

 

3. Some folks will join in because they like gossip - scripture calls it a tasty morsel.

 

4. A church can gain a reputation of being critical

 

 

 

Overcoming a critical spirit is a matter of sanctification, and we have the Holy Spirit’s help with that .

1. submit to God,
2. read His Word,
3. develop a thankful heart
4. and pray for grace, we will find that the critical spirit gives up control to the Holy Spirit of Christ.
5. address the issue