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It’s easy to point out when someone else is doing everything wrong - but it hurts when we’re on the receiving end of criticism. So shut your big fat mouth!
Key Points:
- Our words have the power to bring life or death. Proverbs 18:21
- A critical spirit destroys relationships. Galatians 5:14-15
- The antidote to a critical spirit is a changed heart. Luke 6:45
Featured Text:
Galatians 5:14-15 For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.
See Also: Relationships
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SERMON SEGMENTS
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Small Group Questions
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Talk about a time when you were criticized. How did it feel?
- Read Proverbs 18:21 What do you think of Solomon’s description of the power of the tongue?
- Why do you think it so easy to be critical of others?
- How would you define a “critical spirit”?
- Read Galatians 5:14-15. What are some of the ways that a critical spirit can destroy relationships?
- Why do you think it is easier to criticize than to build up?
- Who are you most critical of? What could your criticism be destroying?
- Read Luke 6:45. Why do you think Jesus means when he says “what you say flows from what is in your heart?
- Read Romans 15:13. Instead of being critical, what would it look like if each day your words overflowed with hope from the Holy Spirit? Have you experienced that?
- How can you be less critical in your closest relationships? What obstacles will you face? How will you go about it?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
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