The biblical and theological examination of prosperity theology

The biblical and theological examination of prosperity theology

Author: Basilius Kasera

Publisher: GRIN Verlag

Published: 2013-09-10

Total Pages: 141

ISBN-13: 3656494231

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Master's Thesis from the year 2012 in the subject Theology - Systematic Theology, grade: B, , course: Theology - Systematic Theology (Ethics), language: English, abstract: This thesis conducts a biblical and theological analysis of the prosperity theology’s (PT) impact amongst the poor. The main problem is to seek ways of effectively responding to the biblical, theological, and ideological problems raised by PT in Namibia, without overlooking the social issues of poverty and suffering, which this theology claims to be solving. The subject under discussion is found in various denominations but especially amongst neo-Pentecostal churches and it is not a standardised theology. Through interacting with the various views of the proponents and opponents this research proposes that although PT may have certain positive aspects, it is a theology established upon faulty hermeneutics and is not helpful in providing biblically and theologically sound solutions to the problem of poverty. The research aims to show that Christians have a biblical mandate to care for the poor and to work towards assisting the poor to help themselves. However, we do not foresee a time in the here and now when poverty will be totally abolished. Living with this painful reality, we have the duty of continuously pointing people to the future hope in Christ. On the other hand, our looking to the future hope does not exempt us from doing our best in helping people in the here and now as God enables us. The research shows that the gospel is the hope for humanity and we should do away with methods and practices that do not have their roots in Scripture. Moreover, the church has a duty to warn against any theology that is conducted in an irresponsible manner and is given to reductionist arguments when it comes to providing solutions to human problems. Therefore, the research seeks to suggest biblical, theological and practical ways of responding to the issue of poverty and ministry to the poor.


Book Synopsis The biblical and theological examination of prosperity theology by : Basilius Kasera

Download or read book The biblical and theological examination of prosperity theology written by Basilius Kasera and published by GRIN Verlag. This book was released on 2013-09-10 with total page 141 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Master's Thesis from the year 2012 in the subject Theology - Systematic Theology, grade: B, , course: Theology - Systematic Theology (Ethics), language: English, abstract: This thesis conducts a biblical and theological analysis of the prosperity theology’s (PT) impact amongst the poor. The main problem is to seek ways of effectively responding to the biblical, theological, and ideological problems raised by PT in Namibia, without overlooking the social issues of poverty and suffering, which this theology claims to be solving. The subject under discussion is found in various denominations but especially amongst neo-Pentecostal churches and it is not a standardised theology. Through interacting with the various views of the proponents and opponents this research proposes that although PT may have certain positive aspects, it is a theology established upon faulty hermeneutics and is not helpful in providing biblically and theologically sound solutions to the problem of poverty. The research aims to show that Christians have a biblical mandate to care for the poor and to work towards assisting the poor to help themselves. However, we do not foresee a time in the here and now when poverty will be totally abolished. Living with this painful reality, we have the duty of continuously pointing people to the future hope in Christ. On the other hand, our looking to the future hope does not exempt us from doing our best in helping people in the here and now as God enables us. The research shows that the gospel is the hope for humanity and we should do away with methods and practices that do not have their roots in Scripture. Moreover, the church has a duty to warn against any theology that is conducted in an irresponsible manner and is given to reductionist arguments when it comes to providing solutions to human problems. Therefore, the research seeks to suggest biblical, theological and practical ways of responding to the issue of poverty and ministry to the poor.

Blessed

Blessed

Author: Kate Bowler

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Published: 2013-05-08

Total Pages: 336

ISBN-13: 0199985855

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How have millions of American Christians come to measure spiritual progress in terms of their financial status and physical well-being? How has the movement variously called Word of Faith, Health and Wealth, Name It and Claim It, or simply prosperity gospel come to dominate much of our contemporary religious landscape? Kate Bowler's Blessed is the first book to fully explore the origins, unifying themes, and major figures of a burgeoning movement that now claims millions of followers in America. Bowler traces the roots of the prosperity gospel: from the touring mesmerists, metaphysical sages, pentecostal healers, business oracles, and princely prophets of the early 20th century; through mid-century positive thinkers like Norman Vincent Peale and revivalists like Oral Roberts and Kenneth Hagin; to today's hugely successful prosperity preachers. Bowler focuses on such contemporary figures as Creflo Dollar, pastor of Atlanta's 30,000-member World Changers Church International; Joel Osteen, known as "the smiling preacher," with a weekly audience of seven million; T. D. Jakes, named by Time magazine one of America's most influential new religious leaders; Joyce Meyer, evangelist and women's empowerment guru; and many others. At almost any moment, day or night, the American public can tune in to these preachers-on TV, radio, podcasts, and in their megachurches-to hear the message that God desires to bless them with wealth and health. Bowler offers an interpretive framework for scholars and general readers alike to understand the diverse expressions of Christian abundance as a cohesive movement bound by shared understandings and common goals.


Book Synopsis Blessed by : Kate Bowler

Download or read book Blessed written by Kate Bowler and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2013-05-08 with total page 336 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: How have millions of American Christians come to measure spiritual progress in terms of their financial status and physical well-being? How has the movement variously called Word of Faith, Health and Wealth, Name It and Claim It, or simply prosperity gospel come to dominate much of our contemporary religious landscape? Kate Bowler's Blessed is the first book to fully explore the origins, unifying themes, and major figures of a burgeoning movement that now claims millions of followers in America. Bowler traces the roots of the prosperity gospel: from the touring mesmerists, metaphysical sages, pentecostal healers, business oracles, and princely prophets of the early 20th century; through mid-century positive thinkers like Norman Vincent Peale and revivalists like Oral Roberts and Kenneth Hagin; to today's hugely successful prosperity preachers. Bowler focuses on such contemporary figures as Creflo Dollar, pastor of Atlanta's 30,000-member World Changers Church International; Joel Osteen, known as "the smiling preacher," with a weekly audience of seven million; T. D. Jakes, named by Time magazine one of America's most influential new religious leaders; Joyce Meyer, evangelist and women's empowerment guru; and many others. At almost any moment, day or night, the American public can tune in to these preachers-on TV, radio, podcasts, and in their megachurches-to hear the message that God desires to bless them with wealth and health. Bowler offers an interpretive framework for scholars and general readers alike to understand the diverse expressions of Christian abundance as a cohesive movement bound by shared understandings and common goals.

Prosperity Theology and the Gospel

Prosperity Theology and the Gospel

Author: Lausanne Movement

Publisher: Hendrickson Publishers

Published: 2022-05-03

Total Pages: 282

ISBN-13: 1683072383

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Prosperity theology--the belief that financial and physical well-being is God's will for his followers--has become prevalent in modern-day Christianity. For Christians looking to better understand how it is affecting the life and growth of the church around the world, this book is an accessible and practical resource. Evaluating the prosperity theology movement from a biblical and evangelical perspective, the authors encourage readers to think critically about the ways in which the theology we follow can lead toward or away from the kingdom of God. Prosperity Theology and the Gospel is in four parts: The first part turns our attention to God's word and looks at what the Bible says about the issue of prosperity. Part 2 looks at the issue from different perspectives--be it historical, ethical, or sociological. Part 3 considers the impact of prosperity theology in different regions of the world through several case studies. Part 4 proposes how we might respond to some of the challenges we have identified and what could be a way forward for us all. Each chapter is followed by ideas for further thought and discussion. Contributors include Femi Adeleye, Christopher Wright, Joel Tejedo, Valdir and Maicon Steuernagel, and many others.


Book Synopsis Prosperity Theology and the Gospel by : Lausanne Movement

Download or read book Prosperity Theology and the Gospel written by Lausanne Movement and published by Hendrickson Publishers. This book was released on 2022-05-03 with total page 282 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Prosperity theology--the belief that financial and physical well-being is God's will for his followers--has become prevalent in modern-day Christianity. For Christians looking to better understand how it is affecting the life and growth of the church around the world, this book is an accessible and practical resource. Evaluating the prosperity theology movement from a biblical and evangelical perspective, the authors encourage readers to think critically about the ways in which the theology we follow can lead toward or away from the kingdom of God. Prosperity Theology and the Gospel is in four parts: The first part turns our attention to God's word and looks at what the Bible says about the issue of prosperity. Part 2 looks at the issue from different perspectives--be it historical, ethical, or sociological. Part 3 considers the impact of prosperity theology in different regions of the world through several case studies. Part 4 proposes how we might respond to some of the challenges we have identified and what could be a way forward for us all. Each chapter is followed by ideas for further thought and discussion. Contributors include Femi Adeleye, Christopher Wright, Joel Tejedo, Valdir and Maicon Steuernagel, and many others.

PROSPERITY GOSPEL - and it's effect on the 21st Century Church - A Historical and Theological perspective on the Prosperity Gospel

PROSPERITY GOSPEL - and it's effect on the 21st Century Church - A Historical and Theological perspective on the Prosperity Gospel

Author: DR. JEFFERY B. BOWENS

Publisher: Xlibris Corporation

Published: 2012-01-27

Total Pages: 129

ISBN-13: 146913571X

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The Prosperity Gospel has been one of the most talked about discussions of the 21st century, particularly within the Christian Community. The battle line has been drawn by prominent theologians, influential scholars, pundits, and televangelists alike, who are on different sides of this debate and no one is conceding ground to anyone else. The narrow view simply places emphasis and focus on a more capitalistic view of prosperity, such as exquisite homes, fashionable wardrobes, excessive wealth, expensive cars, material and temporal possessions. Things which are tangible and are seen have come to symbolize for many prosperity and achieving the American dream. On the other hand the broader perspective of prosperity is associated with possessing good health, accomplishing ones goals, experiencing a changed life, having a healthy home life, seeing others become productive members of society, and maintaining a perpetual fellowship with the creator. Wherefore, this material will help the reader to be more distinct and precise in defining the different nuisances of prosperity from a historical and theological perspective.


Book Synopsis PROSPERITY GOSPEL - and it's effect on the 21st Century Church - A Historical and Theological perspective on the Prosperity Gospel by : DR. JEFFERY B. BOWENS

Download or read book PROSPERITY GOSPEL - and it's effect on the 21st Century Church - A Historical and Theological perspective on the Prosperity Gospel written by DR. JEFFERY B. BOWENS and published by Xlibris Corporation. This book was released on 2012-01-27 with total page 129 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Prosperity Gospel has been one of the most talked about discussions of the 21st century, particularly within the Christian Community. The battle line has been drawn by prominent theologians, influential scholars, pundits, and televangelists alike, who are on different sides of this debate and no one is conceding ground to anyone else. The narrow view simply places emphasis and focus on a more capitalistic view of prosperity, such as exquisite homes, fashionable wardrobes, excessive wealth, expensive cars, material and temporal possessions. Things which are tangible and are seen have come to symbolize for many prosperity and achieving the American dream. On the other hand the broader perspective of prosperity is associated with possessing good health, accomplishing ones goals, experiencing a changed life, having a healthy home life, seeing others become productive members of society, and maintaining a perpetual fellowship with the creator. Wherefore, this material will help the reader to be more distinct and precise in defining the different nuisances of prosperity from a historical and theological perspective.

God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel

God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel

Author: Costi W. Hinn

Publisher: Zondervan

Published: 2019-07-09

Total Pages: 224

ISBN-13: 0310355281

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A captivating first-person look at one of the world's most powerful prosperity dynasties that offers a unique perspective on greed, the Church, and the journey toward Truth. Millions desperate for hope and solutions are enticed by the promise of the prosperity gospel--that God will do whatever they need with just a little faith and a financial gift. All the while, prosperity preachers exploit the poor and needy to stockpile their riches. What can followers of the true gospel do to combat the deception? Through a remarkable and fascinating journey, Costi Hinn went from a next-generation prosperity preacher to the first to abandon the family faith and share the true gospel. Nephew of the world-famous televangelist, Benny Hinn, Costi had a front-row seat to the inner workings and theology of the prosperity gospel. But as Costi's faith deepened, so did his questions about prosperity teaching. As the deceptions in his past were exposed, Costi came face to face with the hypocrisy and devastation caused by his belief system, and the overwhelming truth about the real Jesus Christ. This captivating look into the daily lives of one of the world's leading prosperity dynasties offers a thoughtful perspective on the perils of greed, the power of the true gospel, and hope for the future of the global church. Through real-life stories, Costi challenges and equips readers to be living lights pointing the way to the true gospel and the saving grace of Christ. God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel will bolster your faith and encourage your own journey toward the Truth. Spanish edition also available.


Book Synopsis God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel by : Costi W. Hinn

Download or read book God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel written by Costi W. Hinn and published by Zondervan. This book was released on 2019-07-09 with total page 224 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A captivating first-person look at one of the world's most powerful prosperity dynasties that offers a unique perspective on greed, the Church, and the journey toward Truth. Millions desperate for hope and solutions are enticed by the promise of the prosperity gospel--that God will do whatever they need with just a little faith and a financial gift. All the while, prosperity preachers exploit the poor and needy to stockpile their riches. What can followers of the true gospel do to combat the deception? Through a remarkable and fascinating journey, Costi Hinn went from a next-generation prosperity preacher to the first to abandon the family faith and share the true gospel. Nephew of the world-famous televangelist, Benny Hinn, Costi had a front-row seat to the inner workings and theology of the prosperity gospel. But as Costi's faith deepened, so did his questions about prosperity teaching. As the deceptions in his past were exposed, Costi came face to face with the hypocrisy and devastation caused by his belief system, and the overwhelming truth about the real Jesus Christ. This captivating look into the daily lives of one of the world's leading prosperity dynasties offers a thoughtful perspective on the perils of greed, the power of the true gospel, and hope for the future of the global church. Through real-life stories, Costi challenges and equips readers to be living lights pointing the way to the true gospel and the saving grace of Christ. God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel will bolster your faith and encourage your own journey toward the Truth. Spanish edition also available.

Health, Wealth, and Happiness

Health, Wealth, and Happiness

Author: David W. Jones

Publisher: Kregel Publications

Published: 2017-07-25

Total Pages: 152

ISBN-13: 0825445078

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Be faithful in your giving and God will reward you financially. It's not always stated that blatantly but the promises of the Prosperity Gospel--or the name-it-and-claim-it gospel, the health-and-wealth gospel, the word of faith movement, or positive confession theology--are false. Yet its message permeates the preaching of well-known Christian leaders: Joyce Meyer, T. D. Jakes, Joel Osteen, Creflo Dollar, Kenneth and Gloria Copeland, and many more. The appeal of this teaching crosses racial, gender, denominational, and international boundaries. Why are otherwise faithful Christians so easily led astray? Because the Prosperity Gospel contains a grain of biblical truth, greatly distorted. For anyone who knows that Prosperity Gospel theology is wrong but has trouble articulating and refuting the finer points, this concise edition contains all the robust arguments of the hard-hitting original edition in a shorter, more accessible form.


Book Synopsis Health, Wealth, and Happiness by : David W. Jones

Download or read book Health, Wealth, and Happiness written by David W. Jones and published by Kregel Publications. This book was released on 2017-07-25 with total page 152 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Be faithful in your giving and God will reward you financially. It's not always stated that blatantly but the promises of the Prosperity Gospel--or the name-it-and-claim-it gospel, the health-and-wealth gospel, the word of faith movement, or positive confession theology--are false. Yet its message permeates the preaching of well-known Christian leaders: Joyce Meyer, T. D. Jakes, Joel Osteen, Creflo Dollar, Kenneth and Gloria Copeland, and many more. The appeal of this teaching crosses racial, gender, denominational, and international boundaries. Why are otherwise faithful Christians so easily led astray? Because the Prosperity Gospel contains a grain of biblical truth, greatly distorted. For anyone who knows that Prosperity Gospel theology is wrong but has trouble articulating and refuting the finer points, this concise edition contains all the robust arguments of the hard-hitting original edition in a shorter, more accessible form.

In Search of Health and Wealth

In Search of Health and Wealth

Author: Hermen Kroesbergen

Publisher: Wipf and Stock Publishers

Published: 2014-01-07

Total Pages: 140

ISBN-13: 1625641419

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The prosperity gospel is very influential in Africa, in Pentecostal churches, and in Reformed churches. But what is the prosperity gospel? Where did it originate? Is it biblically sound? How should we evaluate the prosperity gospel? Does it represent a wrong way of looking for health and wealth, or can we learn something from it? In this book the authors provide an analysis from different perspectives on the highly debated topic of the prosperity gospel. It is intended to be accessible and helpful both to academic colleagues and to ordinary ministers. Most of the authors are lecturers at Justo Mwale Theological University College in Lusaka (Zambia). Together with Prof. L. Togarasei from the University of Botswana, they use their theological skills to examine and assess this important topic from an African and Reformed perspective. The articles in this book will help anyone who wants to deeply explore and evaluate the intriguing phenomenon of the prosperity gospel in Africa. Book jacket.


Book Synopsis In Search of Health and Wealth by : Hermen Kroesbergen

Download or read book In Search of Health and Wealth written by Hermen Kroesbergen and published by Wipf and Stock Publishers. This book was released on 2014-01-07 with total page 140 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The prosperity gospel is very influential in Africa, in Pentecostal churches, and in Reformed churches. But what is the prosperity gospel? Where did it originate? Is it biblically sound? How should we evaluate the prosperity gospel? Does it represent a wrong way of looking for health and wealth, or can we learn something from it? In this book the authors provide an analysis from different perspectives on the highly debated topic of the prosperity gospel. It is intended to be accessible and helpful both to academic colleagues and to ordinary ministers. Most of the authors are lecturers at Justo Mwale Theological University College in Lusaka (Zambia). Together with Prof. L. Togarasei from the University of Botswana, they use their theological skills to examine and assess this important topic from an African and Reformed perspective. The articles in this book will help anyone who wants to deeply explore and evaluate the intriguing phenomenon of the prosperity gospel in Africa. Book jacket.

Healthy and Wealthy?

Healthy and Wealthy?

Author: Robert L. Plummer

Publisher: Faith & Work

Published: 2022-06

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781948048712

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The "prosperity gospel" has spread across the globe and infiltrates homes daily, even through primetime television. Among the core claims of these teachers is that God wants his people to be healthy and wealthy, and if a person is not rich and well, it is because that person lacks faith. This distortion of the Bible's teaching needs to be answered faithfully and winsomely, and the chapters of this volume work toward that end. Writing from perspectives such as missiology, biblical studies, economics, and pastoral theology, the contributors tackle crucial issues from Scripture and ministry to lay out a realistic and theologically sound view of health, wealth, and spiritual vitality.


Book Synopsis Healthy and Wealthy? by : Robert L. Plummer

Download or read book Healthy and Wealthy? written by Robert L. Plummer and published by Faith & Work. This book was released on 2022-06 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The "prosperity gospel" has spread across the globe and infiltrates homes daily, even through primetime television. Among the core claims of these teachers is that God wants his people to be healthy and wealthy, and if a person is not rich and well, it is because that person lacks faith. This distortion of the Bible's teaching needs to be answered faithfully and winsomely, and the chapters of this volume work toward that end. Writing from perspectives such as missiology, biblical studies, economics, and pastoral theology, the contributors tackle crucial issues from Scripture and ministry to lay out a realistic and theologically sound view of health, wealth, and spiritual vitality.

Know the Heretics

Know the Heretics

Author: Justin S. Holcomb

Publisher: Zondervan

Published: 2014-04-29

Total Pages: 177

ISBN-13: 0310515084

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There is a lot of talk about heresy these days. The frequency and volume of accusations suggest that some Christians have lost a sense of the gravity of the word. On the other hand, many believers have little to no familiarity with orthodox doctrine or the historic distortions of it. What’s needed is a strong dose of humility and restraint, and also a clear and informed definition of orthodoxy and heresy. Know the Heretics provides an accessible “travel guide” to the most significant heresies throughout Christian history. As a part of the KNOW series, it is designed for personal study or classroom use, but also for small groups and Sunday schools wanting to more deeply understand the foundations of the faith. Each chapter covers a key statement of faith and includes a discussion of its historical context; a simple explanation of the unorthodox teaching, the orthodox response and a key defender; reflections of contemporary relevance; and discussion questions.


Book Synopsis Know the Heretics by : Justin S. Holcomb

Download or read book Know the Heretics written by Justin S. Holcomb and published by Zondervan. This book was released on 2014-04-29 with total page 177 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: There is a lot of talk about heresy these days. The frequency and volume of accusations suggest that some Christians have lost a sense of the gravity of the word. On the other hand, many believers have little to no familiarity with orthodox doctrine or the historic distortions of it. What’s needed is a strong dose of humility and restraint, and also a clear and informed definition of orthodoxy and heresy. Know the Heretics provides an accessible “travel guide” to the most significant heresies throughout Christian history. As a part of the KNOW series, it is designed for personal study or classroom use, but also for small groups and Sunday schools wanting to more deeply understand the foundations of the faith. Each chapter covers a key statement of faith and includes a discussion of its historical context; a simple explanation of the unorthodox teaching, the orthodox response and a key defender; reflections of contemporary relevance; and discussion questions.

Invading Babylon

Invading Babylon

Author: Lance Wallnau

Publisher: Destiny Image Publishers

Published: 2013-07-16

Total Pages: 192

ISBN-13: 0768485665

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You were transformed to transform your world! For too long, Christianity has been defined by a false concept of church. As a result, believers have built walls around their lives, keeping culture at a distance. As Christians have tried to keep culture out of the church, unfortunately, the church has kept itself out of the culture. This was never Jesus’ design for the your life! Before church was established as a place that people “came to,” Jesus instituted it as an army that brought transformation to society, starting with salvation and continuing with seven spheres of influence: Church, family, education, government, media, arts, and commerce. Six revolutionary voices in the modern church deliver Invading Babylon. This essential guide will equip you to: Understand your vital role in shaping society. Release God’s will in your sphere of influence. Become an unstoppable citizen in God’s Kingdom. It’s your time to arise and be a light in a dark world.


Book Synopsis Invading Babylon by : Lance Wallnau

Download or read book Invading Babylon written by Lance Wallnau and published by Destiny Image Publishers. This book was released on 2013-07-16 with total page 192 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: You were transformed to transform your world! For too long, Christianity has been defined by a false concept of church. As a result, believers have built walls around their lives, keeping culture at a distance. As Christians have tried to keep culture out of the church, unfortunately, the church has kept itself out of the culture. This was never Jesus’ design for the your life! Before church was established as a place that people “came to,” Jesus instituted it as an army that brought transformation to society, starting with salvation and continuing with seven spheres of influence: Church, family, education, government, media, arts, and commerce. Six revolutionary voices in the modern church deliver Invading Babylon. This essential guide will equip you to: Understand your vital role in shaping society. Release God’s will in your sphere of influence. Become an unstoppable citizen in God’s Kingdom. It’s your time to arise and be a light in a dark world.