Is the 'prosperity gospel' prospering?

http://www.religionlink.org/tip_060227.php ^ | 2006 | RELIGIONLINK.ORG

[cowboyfan88]

Is the 'prosperity gospel' prospering?

Most Christian leaders condemn the "prosperity gospel," the idea that God will reward the faithful with health and wealth. Yet observers say it is enjoying new popularity in this economically tenuous time, when many people are not prospering. What's come to be known as the prosperity gospel began as a staple of fire-and-brimstone preaching in early 20th-century revival meetings. It surged in popularity with television preachers in the 1980s, until scandals revealed that some preachers used money donated for ministry to support their own lavish lifestyles.

[TommyDale]

"It surged in popularity with television preachers in the 1980s, until scandals revealed that some preachers used money donated for ministry to support their own lavish lifestyles."

That sort of says it all.

If prosperity preachers really believe what they claim, then why do they beg for money on TV?

[wideawake]

in this economically tenuous time, when many people are not prospering

Q: What would have to happen for a journalist to concede that the conomy was finally prosperous?

A: A Democrat in the White House.

[Always Right]

"...televangelists such as Creflo Dollar, Joyce Meyer, Paul Couch and Kenneth Copeland. These pastors, critics say, encourage their followers to "sow a seed" of faith by spending money - often in the form of a donation to their ministries - in order to reap prosperity in the future."

I am not sure I would classify all of them as teaching 'prosperity gospel'. All ministries rely on tithes and offering. There are a few who go out of their way to imply if you send $100 you will get $1000 back.

[TommyDale]

All of those listed are considered "Word Faith" "Name it and claim it" or "Prosperity" preachers.

[jkl1122]

Is the 'prosperity gospel' prospering?

By the world's standards, sure. By God's standards, absolutely not.

[BipolarBob]

There are different ways to tithe. You may tithe your time. You may tithe your money - but in multiple avenues instead of one place. To tithe to receive more money in return is misreading Gods intention. I am no fan of the "name it and claim it" philosophy.

[jkl1122]

Tithing, if being used to refer to a requirement upon someone to give a certain percentage, is not applicable to Christians. Christians are commanded to give, but a certain percentage is not required.

[Ruy Dias de Bivar]

***Christians are commanded to give, but a certain percentage is not required.***

Well, we can agree on something. If people want to give money to a ministry give to your local church, not the hucksters on TV.

[GOP Poet]

Bookmark for later

[Sue Perkick]

Every one of them teach the prosperity gospel, and have done so for many years.