p. 14 | Well Said

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 8, 1912

“Well Said”

The following terse reference to the subject of criticism is worthy of attention, as published in the Western Recorder:—

“A minister was being discussed by members of his church, in his absence, and, of course, the weight of criticism was unfavorable to him. Finally an old lady, being asked her opinion, said: ‘Well, the poorest preacher I have ever heard could preach so much better than I can live that I never feel like criticizing any of them.’ And silence fell upon the company of critics. . . .

“While it is true that a minister is a public character, and therefore subject to comment and criticism, it is equally true that he is often unnecessarily and harshly criticized, and that by those whose duty it is to strengthen his hands.

“The indifference of many of the young people to the church and its minister often arises from an unfavorable criticism of the preacher.

“It may also be said that those who indulge in this sort of thing hardly realize the extent of the injury they are committing, though this in no wise atones for the wrong.

“If we would pray for and praise the preacher as much as we criticize and cauterize him, there is little doubt that his ministry would be far more effective. At least, let us give it trial and see how it works.”