[scripter]

Of course I agree we need to speak up when necessary. Unfortunately, some criticism does go too far.

I believe Warren's teachings are solid. While I don't agree with everything he does or some of the translations he may use, I've seen three people come to a saving knowledge of God through Warren's ministry in our small group, one of whom was my nephew.

Of course the wife and I were praying and talking with our nephew for years before he became a Christian, but it was something in Warren's book, The Purpose Driven Life that said something to my nephew. He interrupted the study and said he wanted to become a Christian right then and there. I don't mind such interruptions. ;-) At the end of the 40 days study, two more members gave their life to the Lord. It's wonderful watching these three grow in grace.

BTW, I think Warren would be the first to admit he isn't above being wrong.

[Jo Nuvark]

I think what you're saying is Warren's PDL is bearing
good fruit. Isn't that the test after all?

I know many people who attend Saddleback are being
equipped in the small groups. Saddleback seems to meet
a need for those who are unchurched. What's wrong with
that?

“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your
brother's eye and pay no attention to the beam in your
own eye?" (Luke 6:41)

A lot of beaming going on here.

[Quix]

PRAISE GOD. MUCH AGREE. Of course, facts don't sway some folks, in the least.

[The Ghost of FReepers Past]

Well, I just can't go as far as you do in saying that his teachings are solid. In my view they most certainly are not. The good thing is that they usually fall short in the area of missing key points more than in adding errant stuff (though some errant stuff is added). Still, I want to say that we should all consider our criticisms in light of the broader view of who they affect. Some very new Christians have embraced his PDL materials and we should not harm them by being careless in how we criticize. They need to understand where he is wrong, but at the same time we should be gentle and not make them feel attacked for simply being baby Christians.