When God's Word is spoken, it can convict people of their sin (John 16:8). This conviction can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and defensiveness. Instead of acknowledging their sin and repenting, they may lash out at the messenger. This reaction is often a result of the person's inner struggle to come to terms with their wrongdoing. As messengers of God's Word, it's crucial to approach these situations with empathy and compassion, while still conveying the truth.