Explain Your Mission

When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” Matthew 9:11-12

There’s a delicate balance between turning the other cheek and defending your mission against malicious attacks.

If the naysayer attacks you personally by questioning your integrity or maligning your beliefs, it is probably best to ignore them. They don’t respect you, and it’s unlikely that they’ll listen to your defense.

If their comments are directed against the mission and what you are trying to accomplish, it’s your responsibility to make a strong defense.

When the Pharisees attacked Jesus’ character, he turned it around. Instead of saying, “You have it wrong about me,” he said, “You are mistaken about what I am trying to do.”

Perhaps you are criticized as an irresponsible risk taker, or as being too eager for change. Instead of defending yourself, help your critics to understand what you are trying to accomplish.

Jesus regarded his mission as more important than his personal reputation. You should too.