Criticism often springs easily from our lips, especially when directed at others in positions of influence. In the Christian world, no one is immune to the scrutiny of their brothers and sisters. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard—a call to examine our own hearts before speaking out against another.

In the case of prominent Christian leaders like John Piper and others, whose ministries have borne fruit for God’s Kingdom, we must tread carefully and ask ourselves: Why has God chosen them and not me for this specific work?

The disciples faced a similar challenge when they encountered someone casting out demons in Jesus’ name. In Mark 9:38-41 (BSB), John reported to Jesus, saying, “Teacher, we saw someone else driving out demons in Your name, and we tried to stop him, because he does not accompany us.” Their concern was not about the work itself but about the worker’s credentials—he wasn’t part of their group. Jesus’ response is both instructive and humbling: “Do not stop him. For no one who performs a miracle in My name can turn around and speak evil of Me. For whoever is not against us is for us.”

Here we see the heart of Christ: a refusal to stifle legitimate ministry done in His name. Jesus reminds His disciples, and us, that the Kingdom of God is bigger than our personal circles. It is not our job to police every servant of God but to recognize the fruit of their labor and to trust that He is at work through them.

The Danger of a Critical Spirit

Criticism can sometimes reveal more about the critic than the one being critiqued. Jesus often warned against this self-righteous tendency. In Matthew 7:3-5 (BSB), He famously said: “Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but fail to notice the beam in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ while there is still a beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

When we are quick to critique, it often stems from pride—a desire to elevate ourselves by diminishing others. We become “giant killers” in our own minds, tearing down those whom God has raised up rather than examining our own shortcomings. This is a dangerous posture, for it not only harms others but also grieves the Spirit of God who works through them.

The apostle Paul warned against such behavior when he wrote, “Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them.” (Romans 16:17, BSB). A divisive spirit not only damages relationships but also threatens the unity of Christ’s body—a unity that He prayed for on the night before His crucifixion (John 17:21).

Recognizing the Sobering Reality

While we are called to avoid hasty or unwarranted criticism, we must also acknowledge that not every ministry claiming the name of Jesus is truly from Him. Jesus Himself warned in Matthew 7:21-23 (BSB): “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’”

This is a sobering truth: there are those among us whose ministries will have much to answer for on that final day. While their outward works may appear fruitful, their hearts may be far from God. This calls for discernment, not from a place of pride but humility, recognizing that we too must stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 13:5 (BSB), “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?”

A Better Way Forward

Before speaking out against a fellow believer, especially one engaged in fruitful ministry, ask yourself these questions:

1. Have I prayed for this person, seeking God’s will in their life and ministry?
2. Am I motivated by love, or by jealousy, insecurity, or pride?
3. Would my words honor Christ, or would they sow division in His body?

If, after honest reflection, you still believe correction is needed, bring your concern to God in prayer first. Seek wisdom and discernment before sharing your thoughts with others. Remember the apostle Paul’s admonition in Ephesians 4:29 (BSB): “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.”

Encouragement for the Humble Heart

God’s Kingdom work is vast and varied. Some are called to public platforms like John Piper’s, while others faithfully labor in obscurity, known only to God. Both roles are vital, and neither is more honorable than the other. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:18-20 (BSB): “But in fact, God has arranged the members of the body, every one of them, according to His design. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.”

When we bridle our critical tongues and choose humility, we reflect Christ’s love and build up His church. Let us celebrate the good work God is doing through others, even when their methods or prominence differ from our own. At the same time, let us be vigilant, testing all things against the truth of God’s Word and praying for repentance where error is found. For on that day, only those who truly know and are known by Christ will stand. May we labor faithfully to hear those blessed words: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”