Health, Wealth, and the (Real) Gospel: The Prosperity Gospel Meets the Truths of Scripture

Sean DeMars and Mike McKinley set out to reveal the insidious toxicity of the prosperity gospel, which distorts God's truth and promises material blessing for those who believe enough. They counter claims made by the prosperity gospel with what scripture actually teaches, highlighting the places in scripture that stand opposed to prosperity teachings. They also explore what the Bible teaches about whether people who believe false doctrine are eternally saved and how to examine our hearts for a prosperity-style understanding of God.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2022
Publisher: Christian Focus Publications Ltd

Sean DeMars and Mike McKinley, two individuals who have personally witnessed the detrimental consequences of the prosperity gospel, embarked on a mission to expose its insidious toxicity. Initially, the allure of promises of material blessing for those who believe enough may appear to align with biblical teachings, but upon closer examination, it becomes evident that these teachings distort the truth of God.

To address the claims made by the prosperity gospel, DeMars and McKinley begin by contrasting them with the actual teachings of scripture. They emphasize the specific passages in the Bible that directly contradict the prosperity gospel's ideology. For instance, they highlight verses that emphasize the importance of humility, generosity, and contentment rather than pursuing wealth as the ultimate goal.

Furthermore, they delve into the question of whether individuals who embrace false doctrine can ultimately be saved. They explore the Bible's teachings on the nature of salvation and the consequences of rejecting the truth. They emphasize the importance of examining our hearts and seeking a deeper understanding of God that aligns with his character and values rather than a prosperity-style perspective that prioritizes material gain.

The Heart of the Prosperity Gospel:

Excuse me, but your Bible is upside down. While the prosperity gospel may promise wealth, health, and happiness, it fails to align with the fundamental teachings of scripture. The Bible emphasizes the importance of humility, generosity, and contentment rather than pursuing material gain as the ultimate goal.

Yeah, but what about promises of health and happiness? The prosperity gospel often claims that believers can achieve these blessings by simply having enough faith and believing in the power of God. However, the Bible teaches that health and happiness are not guaranteed, but rather a result of a holistic lifestyle that includes physical exercise, healthy eating, and a relationship with God.

Yeah, but what about promises of wealth? The prosperity gospel often portrays God as a personal ATM, ready to dispense endless riches upon those who have enough faith. However, the Bible teaches that wealth is not the ultimate measure of success or happiness. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of using our resources to serve others and to make a positive impact in the world.

Do TBN Viewers Go to Heaven?

This is a complex question that requires careful consideration. While TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) is a Christian television network that promotes the prosperity gospel, it is important to note that not all of its viewers necessarily subscribe to this ideology. TBN broadcasts a wide range of Christian programming, including sermons, music, and documentaries, and it is up to each individual viewer to interpret the teachings they see on the network.

Should We Pray Together?

While praying together can be a powerful way to strengthen our faith and connect with God, it is important to approach prayer with a humble and open heart. The prosperity gospel often encourages believers to pray for specific outcomes, such as financial prosperity or health breakthroughs. However, the Bible teaches that prayer should be focused on seeking God's will and aligning our desires with his purposes.

The Prosperity Gospel Among the Orthodox:

The prosperity gospel has also had a significant impact on the Orthodox Christian community. While some Orthodox Christians may embrace the idea of financial prosperity as a result of their faith, others may view it as a distraction from the true teachings of the church. The Orthodox Church emphasizes the importance of living a humble and virtuous life, as well as the need for spiritual growth and self-discipline.

In conclusion, the prosperity gospel is a distortion of the true teachings of scripture. While it may promise material blessing for those who believe enough, it fails to align with the fundamental values of humility, generosity, and contentment. It is essential to approach the Bible with a critical eye and to seek a deeper understanding of God that aligns with his character and values. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of the prosperity gospel and live a life that is truly fulfilling and meaningful.

Weight: 130g
Dimension: 197 x 130 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781527108028