Jesus needed feedback, how much should you look for?

Simple definition of "Feedback" goes like this, "Feedback’ is used to describe the helpful information or criticism about prior action or behavior from an individual, communicated to another individual (or a group) who can use that information to adjust and improve current and future actions and behaviors."

When something on “Feedback” or “performance review” has to be picked up, then the first reaction would be that this is applicable only in secular organization and multi-national companies and it does not have any place in Christian ministry or Churches. This is definitely not true. People need feedback on their efforts. They have to know where they stand in terms of current performance and long-term expectations.

Feedback enhances effectiveness and helps to reach the point of excellence. Unfortunately, most of the individuals, leaders, churches wouldn’t want it. Either they assume they are already perfect because of the position they hold, or they are not ready to accept from people whom they serve. It is said, “People don’t want to hear the truth because they don’t want their illusions to be destroyed.”.

Jesus was willing to receive feedback, it is said in Matthew 16:13 Jesus wanted to understand the perspective and opinion of people about Him“. "Who do people say that the son of man is?" And then a pointed question to the disciples about who He is (Matthew 16:15). I have heard sermons on number of occasions from the pulpit and I am sure you would have heard too. But my question is, Is there a mechanism to receive honest structured feedback in Churches, organization? It's not once-a-year or once-every-three-month event. There may be a need to plan the timing to receive formal feedback in the case of Churches or organization in a more structured way; (in a form of feedback form, survey etc.), but informal, simple feedback can be given much more often – perhaps every week or even every day, depending on the situation.

Jesus asked for a feedback, which means God intentionally wanted to set a pattern for us to follow.

Some leaders limit their feedback from their chosen committee, some from people who hypocritically praise the leader for their own personal ends when actually their name or church reputation may be odious in the community. Romans 1:8 NASB says, "First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world." The reputation whether positive or negative is up on the air.

Jesus at one time challenged the crowd when he asked this, "Which one of you convicts Me of sin?" John 8:46 NASB. Jesus was the embodiment of perfection and commanded us to be perfect too, as individuals and Churches. "Therefore, you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Matthew 5:48 NASB.

Blessings.