1 THESSALONIANS: Handling Criticism

SPEAKER

Steve Hill

SCRIPTURE

1 Thessalonians 2:1-12

BIG IDEA

Hang on to the One who understands.

OUTLINE

1. Everyone will face criticism.
2. Pleasing God is the goal.
   1. Accusation: Dishonest
      • Deceptive
      • People-Pleaser
      • Greedy
      • Bossy
   2. Affirmed: God says, “I approve.”
   3. Answer: Humility
      • Gentle
      • Transparent
      • Willing to Work
3. Be an encourager not a discourager.

Use the right methods and motives.

Don’t be paralyzed by criticism.

Respond factually not defensively.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Describe a time when you received negative criticism and how you responded.
2. How would you describe Paul’s approach to handling criticism?
3. Are you a people pleaser? If so, how might you be more susceptible to criticism?
4. How difficult is it to respond factually rather than emotionally? Is that always best?
5. How does the fact that God understands your situation affect the way you respond to critics?

NEXT STEP

• I will choose to trust that God understands my situation.