Prophet-Bashing Bloodsport: When Christians Devour Their Own

It’s Prophet-Bashing Season – A Call to Discernment and Grace:

Prophets are easy targets when it comes to those seeking the low-hanging fruit of vitriol, criticism, and denunciation of church leaders. Social media amplifies every voice, and the loudest voices often seem to be those tearing down others. Lately, it feels like “prophet-bashing season” is in full swing. Whether it’s an online commentary about prominent Christian leaders, local church figures, or even just fellow believers sharing their convictions, criticism and condemnation seem to be the order of the day.

From a Christian perspective, this trend of putting down, rejecting, and railing against the prophetic should give us pause. While healthy discernment is crucial, the spirit behind much of this criticism often feels far removed from the love and grace that should characterize our interactions.

The Biblical Precedent: Prophets Then and Now

Throughout Scripture, prophets were often misunderstood, rejected, and even persecuted. From Jeremiah to Jesus, those who spoke truth to power faced intense opposition. This pattern reminds us that speaking God’s truth, even when done with the best intentions, can be met with hostility.

Today, those who step out in faith, seeking to share God’s word or lead His people, are not immune to this scrutiny, and they don’t do everything right. Likewise, their lifestyles show themselves to be very human, prone to failure, and often completely in error. Regardless, we must acknowledge that genuine prophets, those who truly hear from God, may exist in our time. However, it’s also true that false prophets and misguided leaders can and do exist. Many people only point to the false, but for a false prophet to be in evidence, there must also be true prophets as well. 

The Dangers of Unchecked Criticism

Those who make merchandise on the weakness and failures of the prophetic use the word “discernment” a lot, but their accusations, innuendos, and charges against prophetic ministers are seldom backed up with solid facts. When they are, due process doesn’t exist and would be the last resort if it did. The problem isn’t discernment itself; it’s the manner in which it’s often carried out. Here are some dangers of unchecked criticism:

• Slander and Gossip: Instead of addressing concerns directly, criticism can devolve into slander and gossip, damaging reputations and breaking down communities. It has been said that if the person you are talking to isn’t part of the problem or part of the solution, then you are engaging in gossip.
• A Spirit of Condemnation: Focusing solely on flaws and shortcomings can create a culture of condemnation, hindering growth and restoration. There’s no denying that Biblical characters like David committed heinous acts yet continued to be used by God on behalf of His people and His purposes. God hasn’t changed. Men haven’t changed. The shrill voices calling for what amounts to a charismatic move in the Inquisition should stop and think about that. 
• A Lack of Grace: We are called to extend grace to one another, even when we disagree, even when we fail. Constant criticism can create an environment where forgiveness and reconciliation are impossible.
• Distraction from the Mission: When we’re consumed with tearing down others, we lose focus on our primary mission: to love God and love our neighbor. Jesus said we would be known as belonging to Him by our love for one another, not the kangaroo courts we set up to rain down judgment on our failed and flawed leaders. Mercy rejoices over judgment, but there is very little rejoicing in the arena of spiritual things where Christians devour their own like famished, fine, young cannibals. 

A Call to Discernment with Grace

So, how can we navigate this “prophet-bashing season” with wisdom and integrity?

• Test the Spirits (1 John 4:1): Scripture encourages us to test the spirits to see whether they are from God. This involves examining the content of their message, their character, and their fruit in the scope and context of their lives and testimonies, not just one area. 
• Speak Truth in Love (Ephesians 4:15): If we have concerns, we should address them with humility and love, seeking to restore rather than destroy. This should be done according to scripturally defined protocols set forth regarding leveling accusations against leaders – and that isn’t accomplished in the public square. 
• Pray for Leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2): Instead of criticizing, we should pray for our leaders, asking God to give them wisdom and discernment. What am I saying? You have no right to criticize a leader you haven’t prayed for in earnest intercession. Show me your prayer life, and I will show you a brother or sister putting more energy into the restoration of a leader than tearing them down. 
• Focus on Our Own Walk (Matthew 7:3-5): Before we point out the speck in someone else’s eye, we should examine the log on our own. According to scripture, what we see in others is often a reflection of what is going on in our own lives. Remember, the mercy you show others is a metric for the mercy that will be shown to you.
• Remember the Importance of Forgiveness: when mistakes are made or when disagreements happen, forgiveness is vital. David made mistakes, even committed sin, was forgiven, and in short order, returned to the throne of Jerusalem. That is an undeniable fact and an example for us. 
• Seek godly counsel: before making public statements, it is wise to seek advice from trusted and mature believers.

A Heart of Humility

Ultimately, our response to those who lead or speak out should be rooted in humility. We are all fallible humans in need of God’s grace. Let’s strive to be a community that builds up rather than tears down, that discerns with wisdom, and that extends grace to all.

Let us remember that God is the ultimate judge, and that our role is to love, to serve, and to seek His kingdom. May we be known not for our criticism, but for our love.