Harsh and Unjust Criticism

Are you better at receiving harsh and unjust criticism or giving it? Would you rather be on the receiving end or the giving end of harsh and unjust criticism? If we admit it, most of us are a lot better at handing out this kind of criticism than we are at receiving it.

Abraham Lincoln was probably slandered, libeled, and hated more intensely than anyone ever to run for the presidency.

Following the 1860 campaign, most of the nation couldn’t comprehend how this seemingly awkward country lawyer from the West had been elected president. Harsh and unjust criticism didn’t subside after Lincoln took the oath office, nor did it come only from Southern sympathizers. It came from within the Union itself—from Congress, from some factions within the Republican Party, and initially, from within his own cabinet. As president, Lincoln learned that no matter what he did, there were going to be people who would oppose him. As his enemies increased, so did the criticism against him. But President Lincoln handled it all with patience, forbearance, and determination that wouldn’t characterize most people—either then or now.

Our Lord Jesus also endured harsh and unjust criticism. In the house of Matthew one day, Jesus was disapprovingly chided by the Pharisees for eating with tax collectors and sinners (Matthew 9:10-11). On another occasion, our Lord was censured in his hometown of Nazareth because of his family background and poverty (Matthew 13:53-56). When Philip told Nathanael that he had found the promised Messiah and that he was from Nazareth, Nathanael was critical of where Jesus lived (John 1:43-46). And the Pharisees one day condemned Jesus for allowing a sinful woman to touch him by anointing his feet and drying them with her hair (Luke 7:36-39).

At times, harsh and unjust criticism will also come your way and mine. But when this becomes our experience, let’s remember the admonition of Peter: “When they hurled their insults at him (Jesus), he did not retaliate. When he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him to judges justly’ (1 Peter 2:23). May we do the same!

—Paul W. Brubaker
March/April, 2010

STATEMENT OF CONDUCT

The Brethren Bible Institute believes in the discipline of the whole person (spirit, soul, and body). We will aim to train students not only about how to study the Bible in a systematic way (2 Timothy 2:15), but also how to live soberly and righteously and godly in this present world (Titus 2:12). God calls Christians to the highest of character when He commands us to be holy (1 Peter 1:15), and holiness requires discipline.

Indulgence in the use of tobacco, alcoholic beverages, drugs, profanity, and gambling are forbidden at BBI. Objectionable literature will be prohibited. Students are asked not to use the college pool during the Institute. Each student must be thoughtful, and respect the rights of others at all times, especially during study and rest periods.

A friendly social group intermingling of students between class periods, and at general school activities is encouraged. Each student should enjoy the friendship of the entire group. At all times, highest standards of social conduct between men and women must be maintained. This means that all forms of unbecoming behavior and unseemly familiarities will be forbidden.

Personal appearance and grooming tell much about one's character. Students are expected to be dressed in good taste. In an attempt to maintain Scriptural expressions of simplicity, modesty, and nonconformity, the following regulations shall be observed while attending BBI.

MEN should be neatly attired and groomed at all times. Fashion extremes and the wearing of jewelry should be avoided on campus. The hair should not fall over the shirt-collar when standing, nor should it cover the ears.

WOMEN should wear skirts cut full enough and of sufficient length to at least come to the knees when standing and sitting. Form-fitting, transparent, low-neckline, or sleeveless clothing will not be acceptable. Slacks and culottes are permitted only for recreation and then only when worn under a skirt of sufficient length. Wearing jewelry should be avoided on campus. Long hair for women is encouraged and all Church of the Brethren girls (and others with like convictions) shall be veiled on campus.

The Institute reserves the right to dismiss any student whose attitude and behavior is not in harmony with the ideals of the School, or whose presence undermines the general welfare of the School, even if there is no specific breach of conduct.

The Brethren Bible Institute is intended to provide sound Bible teaching and wholesome Christian fellowship for all who desire it. The Bible School Committee worked hard and long at the task of arriving at standards, which will be pleasing to the Lord. It is not always easy to know just where the line should be drawn and we do not claim perfection. No doubt certain standards seem too strict for some and too loose for others. If you are one who does not share all these convictions, we hope you will agree to adjust to them for the School period, for the sake of those who do. We are confident that the blessings received will far outweigh any sacrifice you may have to make. If you have a special problem or question, please write to us about it. To be accepted as a student at BBI, you will need to sign a statement indicating that you will cooperate with the standards of the School.