It seems to me that most of the criticism of Rick Warren is obviously from jealousy and envy. Warren has the character that most don't - unselfishly serving pastors of small churches like me for years, taking no salary, giving away 90%, championing the average guy, and speaking up for persecuted church and hurting people around the world - so God has clearly raised him up to a place of prominence. The naysayers and do-nothings pick at him but have never been willing to make any of the sacrifices he has for decades. They aren't willing to pay the price he has, so they minimize his work in order to make themselves feel good. Have they given themselves for as many pastors around the world as he has? Of course not. Contemporaries of great men are rarely generous in their evaluations of their peers. History is kinder because is isn't envious.

I do not understand why Warren is treated as if he can do no wrong. Most of the comments make him into someone who is absolutely above reproach. This is why so many are turned off by him and other "mega" types like him. (see Acts 8 for the story of the original "mega" type, Simon Magus). Let's be thankful for any good God has done in and through Rick Warren, but by all means, let's acknowledge that there are faithful people whose lives are hidden to all but God, and who may be much, much more true to the kingdom embodied by Jesus. Warren's way of thinking leaves much to be desired. Let's wait before we jump to such hasty conclusions regarding his importance. Some of you sound as if you have read Rick's press releases about himself. He is a shrewd self promoter, but there is generation of young pastors coming along who are turned off by such celebrity. I am astounded at how evangelicals forget so quickly that the One we worship is the crucified Jesus. This whole conversation smacks of idolatry.

Come on MP! My father and his brother were pastors of very small churches and didn't have a jealous bone in their bodies. They praised God that he had raised up someone like Billy Graham and would do the same about Rick Warren. I have lived in the same valley for 37 years and 6 miles from Saddleback Church and prefer to attend a smaller church. At this close range I cannot critisize Rick and Kay because their basic beliefs have not changed due to the growth of the church or their reputation. If Rick chooses not to reveal his political views or voting record that is his right as a citizen of this United States and I respect him for it. I don't tell everone how I vote either.
Doranna Cooper
Mission Viejo, Ca