Policy of Jehovah's Witnesses on Criticism and Constructive Feedback

As individuals associated with Jehovah's Witnesses, the principles guiding our interactions with critics and the broader community highlight a scripturally-rooted stance on handling criticism. This article explores the policies and practices of Jehovah's Witnesses concerning criticism and how they align with biblical teachings.

Love and Non-Judgment

Central to the practice of Jehovah's Witnesses is the principle of love. This love extends to all people, even those who may not share our beliefs or practices. However, some within the organization have been known to treat critics with a lack of understanding, labeling them as 'Haters Out to get them and others.' This attitude, while not representative of the majority, can be concerning. It is essential to remember that Romans 10:4-5 provides a directive to live by:

"For it is written: ‘The righteous will live by their faith, but it is a useless faith if they do not have works. And can God’s Word be put to shame? May it never be! For we are those who believe, not those who are following our own desires, but those who are speaking about what God has caused us to hear. Now faith does not make itself, but faith speaks by the mouth of men and women of God. Those who do not do works as they heard it, can God’s Word be favored? It is a useless faith.’”

These verses come from a broader context in the Bible and emphasize the importance of living by faith and the works that accompany it.

Biblical Guidance

Let us look at Matthew 7:1-5 (NASB) for a clearer understanding of how we should approach criticism:

"Do not judge, so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and look, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye!”

Jesus' words here emphasize the importance of self-reflection and introspection before addressing others. It is a call to confront one's own flaws before pointing out the flaws of others. This guidance applies not only to Jesus but to all those who follow His teachings.

Ignoring Critics

For many, a practical and effective policy is to ignore critics. Following the example of Jesus, this approach minimizes potential harm that may arise from engaging in unnecessary debates or arguments. As stated in Matthew 22:21, Christians should honor both God and their government:

"‘Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’”

This principle allows Jehovah's Witnesses to continue with their preaching work without getting affected by the criticism of others. It encourages a focus on the message and the work, rather than the opinions of critics.

Constructive Criticism

Contrary to the harsher interpretation, constructive criticism can provide valuable feedback, which can help improve one's work or attitude. Proverbs 9:9 (KJV) encourages us to seek advice:

"Give instruction to a wise man, and he will attend to it; and give counsel to a discerning man, and he will listen.”

James 3:2 (NASB) further emphasizes the need for self-improvement:

"Behold, we put bits into the horses’ mouths to make them obey us, and we use rods upon cattle to direct them. In the same way, we also guide our mouth and hand; this would not be wise if we had not the other under control, would it?”

Proverbs 17:27 (KJV) advises tempering our words:

"A pleasant word produces good medicine, but a harsh rebuke gives injury.”

With these principles in mind, it is clear that constructive criticism should be received with a calm and open mind. The Bible also provides guidance on how to handle criticism constructively:

"Share with a wise man, and he will become wiser; from the friend who understands, get instruction, and exercise common sense in your instruction.”

Jesus' words in Luke 6:37 (NASB) are a key reminder of the proper attitude to have when receiving criticism:

"Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you.”

Conclusion

Jeager's Witnesses, like all followers of Jesus, should strive to follow the biblical principles outlined above when dealing with criticism. The goal is not to foster conflict but to promote mutual growth and understanding. By practicing love, self-reflection, and seeking constructive feedback, Jehovah's Witnesses can maintain their focus on the work of proclaiming the Kingdom of God without being deterred by unfair criticism.