But, isn’t the “prosperity gospel” a pentecostal idea? And Schuller is/was Reformed? I don’t get the connection, or is it just preaching “God’ll give you money” and ignoring the basic theology of salvation etc?
The prosperity gospel has raised it’s ugly head in many churches. We need to remember that Christ did say people woud raise up teachers to tickle their ears...tell them what they want to hear. People want ‘prosperity’ in our world, over and above that of following Christ, which certainly does not guarantee a comfortable ride...in fact I have found we are often stretched beyond what we could handle without Him.
I also think we are being prepared both for now, as our years here pass, and that in the future...there is nothing I read in scripture that denotes prosperity prepares one for the future times....perhaps if one is generous and God equips one to do so with the idea of transfering their wealth to where Christ would desire it be used. But that is not the preaching of prosperity I have heard preached, rather the fous is on the individaul.
Aas far as where the idea of the “prosperity Gospel” beginning...Anninias and his wife comes to mind.