I agree. But so have many preaching today. My point was that success in this world does not necessarily equate to God's acceptance.
Yep.
I did get sent this article this morning:
Ashamed of the Gospel by Steve Camp
Joel Osteen on Larry King Live
http://a1m.org/page.php?page=template1.php&pageid=29be7ec8b7957b97ef67ff8c8519519c
and the follow-up is very interesting --- actually gives me hope for the smiling preacher...
The Joy of Humility
A personal letter from Joel Osteen
June 27th 2005 - After Joel's appearance on Larry King Live. last week I wrote an article with accompanying transcript for the A1M website. I sent a personal copy of the article with a note to Joel extending an invitation to speak with him about his troubling interview. Much to my delight he called me back later that same day. We had a very good, honest and profitable conversation about his interview, ministry and the gospel. Joel demonstrated great humility and teachability in all we discussed. I don't know many evangelical leaders of his reknown that have ever published a letter seeking others' forgiveness for mistakes made so quickly and desirous to do so. That speaks volume of his character to me (and others have noticed as well).
[JOEL OSTEEN ISSUES APOLOGY
http://albertmohler.com/blog_read.php?id=137]
Though significant doctrinal and theological differences remain, I am very encouraged to know that Joel is a humble man willing to seek the counsel of others to help understand his own failings.
Please keep him in your prayers that the Lord will continue to strengthen him with boldness in sharing the gospel, and that he would unashamedly proclaim the whole counsel of God.
Grace and peace,
Steve
(Col. 3:10-13)