RCCG Sunday School Student Manual 28 December 2025 – Lesson 17
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TOPIC: Handling Criticism (RCCG Sunday School Student Manual 28 December 2025)
MEMORY VERSE: “But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.” – Galatians 2:11 (KJV)
BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 14:3-10 (KJV) (RCCG Sunday School Student Manual 28 December 2025)
3 For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife.
4 For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.
5 And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.
6 But when Herod’s birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod.
7 Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask.
8 And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist’s head in a charger.
9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath’s sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her.
10 And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison.
Also Read: Open Heaven 28 December 2025 – He Forgives All
INTRODUCTION: Criticism is simply feedback that we may find difficult to bear but that we need if we are to expand our awareness of the impact of our actions on others. We can use criticism positively, or in a negative way that can lower self-esteem and cause anger or aggression (1 Kings 21:15-20). Generally, criticism helps identify areas for improvement and enhances self-awareness. Thus, handling criticism effectively is crucial for personal and professional growth.
LESSON OUTLINES:
- TYPES OF CRITICISM
- DEAL WITH IT
1. TYPES OF CRITICISM
There are various types of criticism but our focus is on constructive and destructive criticisms. Learning to recognise the difference between the two can help us deal with any criticism we may face.
Constructive criticism is designed to point out our mistakes (Galatians 2:11-14) and show us where and how improvements can be made (Matthew 23:23). Constructive criticism should be viewed as useful feedback that can help us improve ourselves rather than put us down (2 Samuel 12:7-13).
Destructive criticism, on the other hand, is malicious and hurtful (Proverbs 12:18a). In some cases, it leads to anger and/or aggression (Proverbs 15:1). Destructive criticism is usually intended as a personal attack, planned to harm someone’s self-esteem. It is usually not aimed at proffering solutions.
2. DEAL WITH IT
Some people are critical by nature and may not always realise that they are hurting the feelings of others. If you know a person who is critical of everything, try not to take their comments too seriously, as this is just part of their personality.
To effectively respond to criticism, we need to relax and listen carefully to what the other person is saying (Proverbs 18:13; James 1:19). Ask for clarification if the criticism is somewhat vague. Decide whether the criticism is fair or unfair (Luke 12:57). Look to see if there is a “grain” of truth in what is being said (2 Corinthians 13:8). This may be hard to do as we may have a desire to deny or defend our actions (1 Samuel 15:14-15). If we can find some truth in the statement, then we must take responsibility for our behaviour (2 Samuel 12:13). If the criticism is fair, ask for an alternative as to how to correct the situation and behave differently (Proverbs 11:14).
In addition, focus on the issue, not the person a practice self-reflection with a growth mindset (Genesis 13:7-9). Whatever the circumstance is, do not respond in anger as this will cause a scene and create bad feelings and possibly a bad image of you (Ecclesiastes 7:9). Try to remain calm and treat the other person with respect and understanding (Ephesians 4:2). If you do feel you may lose control or say something potentially damaging, walk away (2 Timothy 2:24).
CONCLUSION: Build resilience and see criticism as an opportunity for growth.
QUESTIONS:
- What is criticism?
- Distinguish between the two types of criticism mentioned above.
FURTHER READINGS:
Sunday: 2 Timothy 2:24 (KJV)
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
Monday: Ephesians 4:2 (KJV)
With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
Tuesday: Proverbs 11:14 (KJV)
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Wednesday: James 1:19 (KJV)
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Thursday: Proverbs 18:13 (KJV)
He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
Friday: 2 Corinthians 13:8 (KJV)
For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.
Saturday: Luke 12:57 (KJV)
Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?
ASSIGNMENT: Students should mention five (5) ways to deal with criticism (2×5=10 Marks).
RCCG Sunday School HYMN
- O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School. - O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?
