My wife and I are currently attending theWee Kirk conference in Glorieta, NM. It is a great idea for a conference. It is geared to small churches (Wee Kirks) and it is sponsored by Presbyterians for Renewal. So far the conference has been okay. Nothing earth shattering for me. My wife has really enjoyed it.

My frustrations with the poor preaching led to a discussion between her and I about pride. I must say that having attended seminary I am now rather critical of sermons.

Is it prideful to be critical of sermons? This question stimulates my thoughts on the entire emerging church question: is it prideful to be critical of the modern church?

In general I don't feel that it is prideful to criticize poor sermons or be critical of the modern church. But I do believe that the spirit in which we do so is important. What is a healthy spirit for criticism?

Perhaps if our criticism is in an effort to make others better, to make the church more effective, rather than to place ourselves above others, to make ourselves better than others.

A fine line but an important line. What are your thoughts?