Criticism . . . ahhh, it can be a double edged swo...

2007-02-08T11:50:00.000-06:00

Criticism . . . ahhh, it can be a double edged sword can't it? On one side I agree wholeheartedly that we are all to often spoon fed Christians; taking it all in and digesting it without thought. At the same time, our feelings toss us around like a Roller Coaster; they change our Mood and therefore our Perception and Perspective in a moments notice (I myself have had SERIOUS perspective issues lately).

But, on the other hand being critical without just cause may not edify anyone as Christopher stated earler. Really, what good does it do to tear something down that may in fact be helping someone else? Though it may not be wholly correct or wholly incorrect . . .

So where do we stand? Well we should be trying to stand with Balance . . . "All things in moderation, including 'All things in moderation'." . . .

I'm definitely at fault for being overly critical to some, yet I've also seen my criticism and logical thoughts really provoke GREAT conversations that have brought GREAT feedback and have totally edified my friends and my relationships . . .

Perhaps it boils down to Wisdom. To knowing and picking our battles. To letting God use us when and where appropriate for taking a stand on certain issues, but also realizing that belittling trivalities serves little purpose

. . . and to Humbling ourselves (MY Personal Battle) to saying that we, also, do not Know everything! Perhaps there is something right in front of us, in those battles, for US to learn and not to criticize, self-righteously?

Balance is obtained through Wisdom. Wisdom is from applying knowledge correctly. Knowledge often comes from experience. And experience usually comes from making mistakes and learning from them.

My point is simple, we've made these mistakes so to help take this in Stride (per Christophers question) we need to climb the ladder and be Balanced . . .

Wow, this was a long response . . . obviously it hit home with me also!

I’m with you 100%. I remember a time when I didn’t...

2007-02-05T20:50:00.000-06:00

I’m with you 100%. I remember a time when I didn’t give much thought to the theology behind these types of sentimental statements, now it makes me a little uncomfortable when I hear people repeating them. I can see how comforting these ideas are to people, and I don’t want to be “that guy”, but I would I uneasy affirming them in conversation.

My wife complains about my cynicism a great deal as well, and it makes me feel bad to dissect the sermons of men she has grown up listening to in order to justify my wariness. What are we to do? Knowing what we know, and holding the convictions that we hold, how can we take erroneous teaching in stride? Although we are defending the truth, is it always edifying?

Comments on Musings of a Seminary Washout: "You Are Too Cynical"

Criticism . . . ahhh, it can be a double edged swo...

I’m with you 100%. I remember a time when I didn’t...