[MissBrattified]

I don't think either Maxwell OR Stan Gleason deserve to be called idiots. Maxwell has written some of the best books on leadership I've ever read. I haven't read the quote in question or the book that contains it, but I have a feeling it has to do with making pastors take responsibility when their congregations aren't "healthy" instead of pointing fingers at the constituents. That's an important concept for any leader, and deserves exploration at a conference like BOTT.

I do agree with PO that JA's comments aren't shocking, coming from him. Anyone who attends his session deserves to have their ears and sensibilities assaulted, and you either have a sense of humor about it, or you don't.

I don't know where JA is from, but I do know that in some places, that is just *how* people talk. (rough/coarse) After awhile, though, it becomes more of his schtick, being obviously self-aware, than just "who he is." Less authentic, more "showboat", as JA once labelled a certain minister that I know. Nevertheless, I fall into the category of those who would rather let his elders and his God deal with his flaws. I don't know any perfect Christians, and I certainly don't admire the ones who want to blare the flaws of people who love God to the whole world. Maybe it's justified, but it still makes my lip curl a bit. There are better, wiser, more compassionate, more appropriate ways to deal with our brothers and sisters.