Hot Topic Tuesday: The Prosperity Gospel

It's that day of the week again. And no, I don't know mean it's time for the weekly east coast snow storm...although they do seem to fall on Tuesdays. I mean, it's Hot Topic Tuesday!

In the past few week's I've read a lot of blogs and articles regarding the Prosperity Gospel and so I wanted to delve into that a little more and hear what you guys think about it? I know there are a number of differing opinions on this one, so if you don't agree with me that's totally fine...feel free to tell me why.

In case you are wondering, the Prosperity Gospel can be defined as: A Christian religious doctrine that financial blessing is the will of God for Christians, and that faith positive speech, and donations to Christian ministries will always increase one's material wealth (Wikipedia). Joel Osteen is probably the most well known advocate of this philosophy right now.  

Well, I'm not going to lie...this sounds great. I really, really, wish I could believe it were true...but I can't.

Here's Why.

Let's take a look at the Bible...specifically Hebrews Chapter 11, or, the Hall of Faith chapter, as it is sometimes referred to. This chapter talks about various individuals mentioned in the old testament who displayed significant faith. Among others, Moses is mentioned. Now, if you remember...Moses died, in the desert, and was never able to see the promised land. A number of other individuals are mentioned and at the end of the section (verses 39-40) that we read: These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. 

So basically...I believe we will prosper. But not in the way the Prosperity Gospel is referring to. We will prosper in eternity. This doesn't mean we WON"T prosper here on earth,  (look at Abraham, or Job!) but we aren't promised this type of prosperity. Faith results in eternal life, not earthly riches. (John 3:16)

Christianity isn't supposed to be easy. We aren't supposed to sign up for it because we want to get rich. In fact, it's guaranteed to be difficult.  I think the followers of the prosperity gospel are focusing on the wrong thing. While it's hard to think this way, our time here on earth is not what counts.


Do you agree?