lazy preachersA sister in Mid-America writes that she loves her minister ... but he ... is simply lazy. Wouldn't it be better . . . to divert . . . salaries paid to preachers . . . to needy people or other good works?
rude minister needs prayerA gracEmail subscriber writes that his minister is . . . mean and rude to anyone who crosses him or gets in his way. To make matters worse, no one seems bold enough to confront the preacher . . . .
preacher's agonyA young preacher who ... interviewed at the non-creedal church ... expressed his honest beliefs about the work of the Holy Spirit and concerning the role of women. . . . About half the church agrees with the preacher and half hold to the traditional understanding. . . . Some members stated at a recent congregational meeting that "we believe [our traditional church] doctrine and if that doesn't work for you, then you can leave." The preacher asks whether he should stay or leave. . . .
rebuke and balanceA missioner in South America writes: "I sometimes preach messages of rebuke to people who tend to be lackadaisical in their walk. How do I do this with a balance helpful to the hearer and pleasing to God?"
lengthy sermonsA parishioner in one state wants to tactfully suggest that his minister shorten the sermon, while a preacher in another state inquires how to make his sermons more effective.