Some thoughts on the prosperity gospel

A few weeks ago I was asked to give a message at Bolton CU concerning the prosperity gospel.

Whilst there are a fair number of prosperity gospel lunatics, I realised that most prosperity teaching is actually only a subtle (but dangerous) twist of the genuine gospel message. Jesus is portrayed as a kind of key that brings us entry into a store of blessings that flow from God the Father.

But here are three problems that I have with the prosperity gospel:

1. True blessing for a Christian is not primarily concerned with 'stuff' (as prosperity teachers imply) but a closer walk with Jesus, whereby a believer leans more fully on Christ in everything - Philippians 1:21

2. Communion with Christ transforms all areas of life (as the prosperity gospel teaches) - but this happens not magically but as a believer surrenders life to him with the Holy Spirit's help - Colossians 2:6-7

3. The clearest witness to Christ comes not through accumulating stuff, but as we willingly surrender it to him - Matthew 13:44-46