Applause Quote by Richard Baxter
“When we speak to drunkards, worldlings, or any ignorant, unconverted men, we disgrace them as in that condition to the utmost, and lay it on as plainly as we can speak, and tell them of their sin, and shame, and misery: and we expect, not only that they should bear all patiently, but take all thankfully, and we have good reasons for all this; and most that I deal with do take it patiently ... But if we speak to a godly minister against his errors or any sin ... if it be not more an applause than a reprehension, they take it as an injury almost insufferable.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Saint's Assurance, 1650
He warns that confronting the ignorant about sin can be endured, but criticizing a devout person feels intolerable.
In simple terms: Criticizing the devout is harder than teaching the ignorant.
Key Takeaway
Approach correction with humility.
Themes
humility
correction
religion
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
ethical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- church counseling
- personal mentorship
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Moral instruction
psychology of offense
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we address errors in leaders without causing resentment?
- What tone eases acceptance of critique?
A Different Perspective
Even the devout may resist correction despite good intentions.
![“All the shows we did pre-airdate, and I'd come out - "Rob Lowe!" - and it was [Offers bored applause.] After the show aired? I came out - "Rob Lowe!" - and the place was, like, bedlam. And then the next week, they wouldn't let anyone under the age of 20 into the audience. And I'm going, "So that's…” quote by Rob Lowe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/66b/rob-lowe-855_age_all-the-shows-we-did-pre-airdate-and-i-d_31307.jpg)
