There is a new word (at least its meaning appears to be evolving). Trolls (in folklore) were ugly creatures depicted as either a giant or a dwarf. Modern day trolls are people who harass, criticize, or antagonize someone especially by provocatively disparaging or mocking public statements, postings, or acts.
It appears our media world is rife with trolls. People sit on the sidelines (often calling themselves fans) and criticize another person’s performance, not having any understanding of what that person has gone through to get to where they are now. A former pastor always said that if you put your head above the crowds, someone will take a potshot at it.
Unfortunately, there are trolls even in the church. I am retired now, but when I was pastoring, I was initially taken aback by what people would say to me. After a while I was no longer taken aback but it always saddened me.
Most of the time the people who were the most vocal in their criticism were those who were “spectators,” people who never participated beyond showing up on Sunday mornings. The complaints were about the music, the temperature, the messages, the direction or vision or programs, etc.
Paul, in his letter to the Romans rebuked his readers for their criticism. “Who are you to condemn [judge] someone else’s servants? Their own master will judge whether they stand or fall. And with the Lord’s help, they will stand and receive his approval.” [vs 14:4 NLT]
Pastor Jordan Hodges said in his message on Sunday that the church needs to encourage.
The world is full of trolls, there should be not even one in the church. Amen.
