A national magazine for pastors once carried a rating system for sermons similar to the rating system we’re all familiar with for movies. It went something like this. The person who designed it was a little bit cynical. Here is the rating he gave to various kinds of sermons:
“G” - Generally acceptable to everyone. Full of inoffensive, childlike platitudes; usually described as “wonderful” or “marvelous” by those who leave church to shake the hands of the pastor.
“MC” - For more mature congregations. At times this sermon makes the gospel relevant to today’s issues; it may even contain mild suggestions for change. Often described as “challenging” or “thought provoking,” though no one intends to take any action or change any attitudes.
“R” - Definitely restricted to those n…