Bible Verses About Criticism

"Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again."

"And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?... first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye."

"Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful."

"Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish."

"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted."

"The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise. He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding."

"But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."

"And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins."

"Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end."

"But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ."

What does the Bible say about criticism?

Criticism — both giving and receiving it — is one of life's most difficult skills. The Bible distinguishes between destructive criticism that tears down and constructive correction that builds up. Key King James Version passages include Matthew 7:1-2, Matthew 7:3-5, Proverbs 27:6. This page collects 10 KJV verses about criticism, each quoted in full.

What does the Bible say about criticizing others?

Jesus warns against hypocritical judgment (Matthew 7:1-5) but commands loving correction (Matthew 18:15). The key is examining yourself first, speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), and correcting in a spirit of meekness (Galatians 6:1).

How should Christians handle criticism?

Receive it humbly (Proverbs 12:1), consider its source (Proverbs 27:6), examine yourself honestly (Matthew 7:3-5), and respond with grace. Not all criticism is valid, but dismissing all criticism is foolish.