Thank you Dr. Witherington

I don't know much about Ben Witherington, from what I've heard he sounds like an American Tom Wright who evangelicals find a little more acceptable since he's not as into the New Perspective on Paul as Wright is.

In any event, I am now a fan. I didn't know much about him but I've read two posts of his on Rob Bell and absolutely loved both of them. (Post 1 and Post 2)

Witherington is an example to all Christians of how to graciously offer criticism. And honestly, this is the first criticism of Bell I've come across that is gracious, edifying, and critical all at once. If you're interested in Rob Bell or the emergent church, read Witherington's posts to get a good, balanced perspective on Bell, and to some extent, the larger ECM. But even if you aren't, read Witherington's post as an example of how to lovingly offer criticism, which is an area in which we can all probably improve a great deal.