They Watched Him Closely — Avoiding a Critical Spirit

“And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the Sabbath day; that they might accuse him.”

— Mark 3:2

Always Watching for Faults

Throughout His ministry, Jesus was constantly under scrutiny. The Pharisees watched Him closely, not to learn or follow, but to accuse and destroy. They found fault with His words (Mark 2:6–7), His fellowship with sinners (Mark 2:16), His disciples’ practices (Mark 2:18, 24), and even His acts of compassion (Mark 3:1–6).

No matter what Jesus did, they twisted it into an accusation. This reveals an attitude of constant criticism—an obsession with finding fault rather than seeing good .

The Dangers of a Critical Spirit

This same attitude can still creep into our lives today. A critical spirit:

• Rejects clear evidence of good when it does not fit its narrative.

• Destroys compassion, showing no desire to help those in need.

• Condemns the innocent, questioning motives instead of celebrating righteousness.

Such an attitude is destructive to individuals, relationships, and even the church. James warns: “Speak not evil one of another, brethren… he that judgeth his brother… judgeth the law” (James 4:11). When we elevate our opinions above God’s Word, we set ourselves up as judges over the law itself .

Root Causes of Fault-Finding

Why do people develop this mindset? Scripture identifies several causes:

• Pride – thinking our way is the only right way (Proverbs 13:10).

• Hypocrisy – condemning others for sins we secretly commit (Matthew 7:5).

• Ignorance – judging by appearances without gathering the facts (John 7:24).

• Self-righteousness – like the Pharisee who exalted himself in prayer (Luke 18:9–14).

• Lack of love and mercy – treating someone as if they can do no good (Colossians 3:13).

• Satan’s influence – as he tried to provoke Job by fault-finding (Job 1:9–11).

  
  

Building Up Instead of Tearing Down

Christians are not called to search for one another’s flaws. We are called to love, forgive, and help each other grow in Christ. Fault-finding tears people down; encouragement builds them up.

Jesus taught: “Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment” (John 7:24). This does not forbid discernment—it forbids unfair, hypocritical judgment. Our goal should always be restoration, never destruction.

A Better Way

Instead of watching others closely to accuse, let us watch closely to encourage. Instead of highlighting failures, let us look for opportunities to extend mercy. The Pharisees used their eyes to condemn—but Jesus used His to heal.

May we choose His way.