How we respond to criticism reveals a lot about our calling and our composure.
—Marshall Shelley

I've always enjoyed the blend of lofty ideals and gritty realism of Jonathan Edwards, who once wrote:

"Resolved: that all men should live for the glory of God. Resolved second: that whether others do or not, I will."

That resolve is rarely put to a greater test than when we are on the receiving end of pointed criticism.

Sometimes the criticism is subtle: "I think you'd benefit from listening to this tape of one of my favorite radio preachers. He really gives you the meat of the Word."

Other times the criticism is sharp: "In your sermons, I don't appreciate the way you use (pick one) humor I Scripture I contemporary analogies I personal illustrations."

Still other times, it's scathing: "Ever since you've come here, you've been prostituting the gospel."

How we respond to such attacks reveals a lot about our calling and our composure.

John Cionca has, he admits, received both compliments and criticisms ...