Bits & Tidbits, Midsummer 2012 edition

Here's a look at some of the better/more interesting/funnier/more profound articles and blog posts I've read in the last little while…

• Criticizing Poorly and Poorly Criticized. Strong and pastoral advice here from Zack Eswine, and a great check on how we consider each other (especially those we disagree with).
  
• Christian Bookstores and Their Chokehold on the Industry. This is a real problem that needs to be addressed— but first it must be identified and acknowledged more widely, and this blog post does a great job. I don't agree with Rachel Held Evans across the board, but she gets it right here.
  
• Microsoft's Downfall: Inside the Executive E-mails and Cannibalistic Culture That Felled a Tech Giant. Wow— who knew (outside of Microsoft, that is) that their culture was this cut-throat? This article explains a lot.
  
• For All Doug Wilson's Theological Acumen. Keen and humble insight into the ongoing spat between Doug Wilson, Rachel Held Evans, and a few others regarding, basically, egalitarianism and its defensibility in the Church. Thanks for a sane voice in this, Matt.
  
• The Secret Genius of Car Talk. Perhaps you've heard that this long-running NPR radio show is stopping production of new episodes this fall. Here's an interesting look at what makes this unlikely success such a winner.
  
• Who Draws the Line? So vital that Christians regain a better understanding of this; thanks to Sean for his clear, concise explanation of the important place and nature of the local church.
  
• The 11 Most Unintentionally Hilarious Religious Paintings. These are really a wince-inducing combination of strange and funny. Definitely worth a look, and a laugh, but not much else.