Critics

In “Critics,” we see how Jeremiah and composer Anton Bruckner remind us that staying faithful to God matters more than pleasing public opinion.

“Do not listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, your soothsayers, or your sorcerers who talk to you, saying, ‘You will not serve the king of Babylon.’ For they are prophesying a lie to you […] I have not sent them.”—Jeremiah 27:9–15 NASB

They mocked him and laughed at him. To critics in Vienna, the music of Anton Bruckner was “strange” and “repugnant.”

Discouraged, he thought of quitting. But buoyed by a strong faith in God, he decided, “It is to Him that I must give account. How then would I stand there before Almighty God, if I followed the others and not Him?”

Gradually, people began to realize that Bruckner was right, and the critics were wrong. One famed conductor concluded that nothing written since Beethoven could even approach Bruckner’s Symphony No. 7.

Jeremiah faced similar critics—people who believed they knew the answers, who always thought they were right. They claimed to speak for God and condemned anyone who disagreed.

But Jeremiah stood firm, confronting the critics and false prophets, refusing to compromise, and boldly proclaiming the Word of God, even when this meant criticism.

The world is filled with critics who are quick to judge and condemn, spread doubt and discouragement. But don’t allow them to convince you that your faith is wrong.

Make sure you know God personally and intimately. Know His Word and the voice of His Spirit. Listen and obey. Regardless of what the critics say, God is faithful!

Reflection Question: How do you respond when others criticize your obedience to God?