You can assess the real meaning behind the words of a critic, but you may need to read between the quotes:

—Ken Warren

Discuss

1. Who are the most outspoken critics of our church's vision and direction?

2. Which of their criticisms fall under the above categories?

3. How do we inadvertently grease the "squeaky wheel"?

4. How do we address the complaints of someone who has never bought into our church ...

Topics:	Conflict, Conflict resolution, Controversy, Difficult people, Division, Factions, Unity
Filters:	Church board, Church staff, Discipleship, Elder, Family ministry, Pastor
Purpose:	Discipleship
References:	Proverbs 10:21, Romans 12:10
Date Added:	July 31, 2007

You can assess the real meaning behind the words of a critic, but you may need to read between the quotes:

1. "I don't know." This person criticizes because of insufficient information. He may really be saying: "I want to know more before offering my support." He needs time to ask questions and needs to receive honest answers.

2. "I don't understand." This may mean "I like things the way they are and ...

Topics:	Conflict, Conflict resolution, Controversy, Difficult people, Division, Factions, Unity
Filters:	Church board, Church staff, Discipleship, Elder, Family ministry, Pastor
Purpose:	Discipleship
References:	Proverbs 10:21, Romans 12:10
Date Added:	July 31, 2007

Click an image or title below to order any of these recommended resources.

Making Peace: A Guide to Overcoming Church Conflict
by Jim Van Yperen
Conflict will happen in the church. All that's up to us is how we prepare to handle it. This is done best by placing all of church life under Jesus Christ. (Moody Publishers, 2002; ISBN 0802431852)

Firestorm: Preventing and Overcoming Church Conflictby Ron ...

Topics:	Conflict, Conflict resolution, Controversy, Difficult people, Division, Factions, Unity
Filters:	Church board, Church staff, Discipleship, Elder, Family ministry, Pastor
Purpose:	Discipleship
References:	Proverbs 10:21, Ephesians 4:29-32, Colossians 3:12-14
Date Added:	August 27, 2007