I'm trying to understand what you are saying. I think with this author - McLaren - the issue goes much deeper than just not using his methods. Would you then say that it's ok for someone to read an author who's theology is dubious and glean for the "good" stuff in the book? I could never do that because most people I know are not as discerning as I and they won't see it. And even if one is discerning why would one even desire to read such a book. I have serious doubts whether God is using this man in any capacity. I have serious doubts whether he is born again. I'm trying to understand your comment about God using even some "evil" people for His purposes as you bring up, but for some reason I don't think that applies here to McLaren.