Warren D. Bullock
Published in 2015, Salubris Resources
Book Review by Brad Kesler
Dr. Warren Bullock authored a very helpful book titled "When Words Hurt: Helping Godly Leaders Respond Wisely to Criticism." Dr. Bullock served as a lead pastor in Oregon and Washington for nearly twenty-five years. He has provided leadership to the Northwest Ministry Network and served as the Northwest Non-Resident Executive Presbyter.
Dr. Bullock's purpose for this book is to "provide Christian leaders with biblically sound responses that limit the damage criticism creates, reduce the hurt it causes, and help to restore relationships it has broken."
In Chapter 2, Dr. Bullock analyzes the critic while listing several behaviors that lead to undue criticism, including superiority, insecurity, high expectations, woundedness, control, etc. Ignorance can also lead people to criticism, as they do not know all the facts. Leaders may be in possession of information that would not be appropriate to share publicly. Therefore, the critic is basing the conclusion on a faulty view of the situation.
Dr. Bullock examines some biblical models and responses to criticism. The Elijah Syndrome teaches that our state of emotional, physical, and spiritual being can significantly color our response to criticism. When we experience exhaustion, even after a victory, or are isolated, minor criticism cuts to the heart. Bullock says, "When we're discouraged or depressed, unwelcome criticism can seem like a mountain looming over us when in reality it's just a non-threatening molehill."
The Hezekiah Model teaches us to look beyond the messenger for any truth in the criticism. To be honest, our initial reaction to criticism is to become defensive and attempt to discredit the messenger, and in doing so, discredit the criticism. Dr. Bullock encoourages the reader to "look for the kernal of truth in the criticism and use it to improve ourselves." Ask trusted friends or colleagues to assist in determining if truth can be found in the criticism.
The Jesus Way encourages us to approach critics with love and also to pray through criticisms. Dr. Bullock writes, "Sometimes we may want God to change the attitude of our critics, but He wants to change us, and prayer is one of the tools he uses."
In Chapter 7, the author provides practical guidelines for how to address the critic. This includes navigating questions such as "Who is the criticism from?", "How did the criticism come to you?", "When is the best time to respond?", and "What is the issue?" Dr. Bullock lists some excellent responses and clarifying questions to get to the root of the issue. For example, when you are unsure of the critic's motives, you can begin by asking "Why do you say that?"
The final two chapters encourage the reader to rely on God for vindication and remind us that our response to criticism should differ from the world's response. It is vital for us to display the character of Christ in the face of criticism.
Dr. Bullock skillfully weaves relevant Scriptures, stories ripped from current headlines, and personal experience, into a book that is quick and easy to read (114 pages). This book will give you tools in your toolbelt, and would benefit any leader who desires to handle criticism in a wise and godly manner.
