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Prosperity Gospel
An aberrant theology that teaches God rewards faith—and hefty tithing—with financial blessings, the prosperity gospel was closely associated with prominent 1980s televangelists Jimmy Swaggart and Jim and Tammy Bakker, and is part and parcel of many of today’s charismatic movements in the Global South. Orthodox Christians wary of prosperity doctrine found a friend in Senator Chuck Grassley, who in 2008 began a thorough vetting of the tax-exempt status of six prominent “health and wealth” leaders, including Kenneth Copeland, Bishop Eddie Long, and Paula White.
All Articles
The Russell Moore Show
Kate Bowler Tells Us Where We’re Wrong on Suffering
The author and historian addresses the problem of pain, the prosperity gospel, and perseverance.
Wire Story
T. D. Jakes Keeps Preaching Revival After Shooting Down Rumors
Followers continue to flock to the prosperity gospel minister even after his A-list connections spawned recent scrutiny.
I’ve Been a Prosperity Gospel Parent
As a young mom, I tried to do everything right. The longer I parent, the less I seek “success” and the more I rely on God’s grace.
Divine Abundance Is More Than a Charismatic Hobbyhorse
The language of extravagant blessing is thoroughly biblical—even if it’s sometimes abused.
Seek Prosperity Properly During Lunar New Year
It’s not wrong to celebrate our blessings. But Asian theologians and pastors advise how to do so in biblical, godly ways amid the festival’s red envelopes and best wishes.
In Our Rejection of the Prosperity Gospel, Are We Missing God’s Provision?
As church leaders, we can model a balanced mindset about God’s material blessings.
Review
Meritocracy Is a Betrayal of the Protestant Ethic, not a Fulfillment
Why the “rhetoric of rising” is incompatible with Christian views of grace and the common good.
The Stories Our Politicians Tell
Our allegiance to economic prosperity can shape us more than we realize.
Wire Story
Florida Pastor First to Be Arrested for Defying Coronavirus Order
Misdemeanor charges against Rodney Howard-Browne set up legal battle over right to worship in a pandemic.
News
White House Appoints Paula White to Oversee Faith Outreach
Trump’s longtime prayer partner has considered the move since he took office.