Why Are Christians So Heavily Criticized?
Text: Matthew 11:18–19
Introduction
As followers of Christ, we are given a high and holy calling. We are commanded to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:16) and to serve as an example in our speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity (1 Timothy 4:12).
However, there is a paradox in the Christian life: even when we live uprightly, we will inevitably face criticism, murmuring, and slander. In Matthew 11:18–19, Jesus highlights a profound truth by showing how both John the Baptist and He Himself were criticized for opposite reasons.
Today, we must understand that being criticized is not always a sign of error. Often, it is the direct consequence of living a godly life. We must not be discouraged when the world speaks against us for doing the will of God.
I. John the Baptist and Jesus: Two Styles, the Same Criticism
Scripture: Matthew 11:18–19
Jesus points out the hypocrisy of His generation by comparing His ministry with that of John the Baptist.
• John the Baptist: Criticized for His Austerity John was a man of radical separation. He lived in the wilderness, wore camel’s hair, and ate locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4). He did not participate in social banquets or wear fine clothing. Because of his strictness, people said, "He has a demon" (Matthew 11:18).
◦ Principle: Radical consecration and self-denial are often labeled as "fanaticism" or "insanity" by those who do not understand the things of God. Yet, Jesus called John the greatest of the prophets.
• Jesus: Criticized for His Proximity Jesus came with a different approach. He ate with people, attended weddings, and shared meals with tax collectors and sinners. For this, His critics called Him a "glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners" (Matthew 11:19). Despite these false accusations, we know that Jesus never sinned (1 Peter 2:22).
◦ Principle: Grace, mercy, and accessibility are often misinterpreted as "compromise" or "worldliness" by the legalistic heart.
• The Root Problem Jesus shows that the problem was not the style of the messenger, but the unbelieving heart of the audience. If you are strict, they call you a demon-possessed legalist. If you are accessible, they call you a worldly sinner. The world will find a reason to criticize the truth regardless of the vessel.
II. Criticism is Part of the Christian Calling
We must realize that rejection by the world is not an accident; it is an expectation.
• The Warning of Jesus: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus didn't say "if" you are persecuted, but "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me" (Matthew 5:11). Rejection is a badge of true discipleship.
• The Experience of the Apostles: Paul was accused of being out of his mind (Acts 26:24). He explained that the "natural man" cannot understand the things of the Spirit; they are foolishness to him (1 Corinthians 2:14).
• The Inevitability of Slander: 1 Peter 2:12 warns us that people will speak against us as "evildoers." This happens because we do not join in the same "flood of dissipation" as the world, or because we stand firmly for sound doctrine.
• The Biblical Doctrine of Conflict: Romans 8:7 tells us that the carnal mind is at enmity with God. Light always agitates the darkness (John 3:19–20). If you are walking in the truth, you will eventually collide with those walking in a lie.
III. How Should We Respond to Criticism?
Since criticism is inevitable, our focus should not be on avoiding it, but on responding to it biblically.
• Do Not Be Discouraged: Neither John nor Jesus stopped their work because of what people said. Our faithfulness is not fueled by human applause, but by divine approval.
• Examine Your Heart: We must distinguish between "righteous" and "unrighteous" criticism.
◦ If we are criticized for doing good, let us persevere.
◦ If the criticism reveals a genuine fault, let us repent and correct it. We are called to be blameless (Philippians 2:15).
• Maintain Exemplary Conduct: The best defense against slander is a life of integrity. Over time, God vindicates His servants. As 1 Peter 2:15 says, by doing good we should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people.
• Seek to Please God Only: Our primary audience is the Lord. If we spend our lives trying to please people, we cannot be servants of Christ (Gálatas 1:10).
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Conclusion
The criticism of the world should not surprise us, nor should it change our course. Whether you lead a life of quiet austerity like John or a life of active social engagement like Jesus, if you belong to God, you will be questioned.
Let us find peace in knowing that our identity is not found in the opinions of men, but in the Word of God. Stay firm, keep your character irreproachable, and remember that "wisdom is vindicated by her deeds" (Matthew 11:19).
