The Prosperity Deception

The era of so-called “mega-churches” has become increasingly associated with an emphasis on biblical teachings on the subject of prosperity. In many cases, it appears that the main proponents of these teachings seem quite adept in applying these principles on behalf of their own households, perhaps to a larger degree than on behalf of most needy segments of our society.

Some ministries have targeted communities that historically have been characterized by financial struggle, attracting a representative following of persons who have experienced considerable monetary instability. Among these ministries are individuals who earnestly have sought out a God-made solution for entrenched societal traits that have kept entire communities locked into poverty.

Nevertheless, many of these ministries have faced criticism from persons who consider an emphasis on financial wealth to be a perversion of the bible's principal teachings on the connection between wealth and unfaithfulness toward God. These critics point specifically to verses such as Jesus' comment that it is easier for a camel to get through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.

Other commentators express concern that English-speaking believers may greatly misunderstand the meaning of original scriptural words that translate into English as “prosperity.” For example, when we read Isaiah's prophecy (KJV) that “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper ...”, no one sensibly concludes that a weapon is capable of earning money. In fact, another translation of that quotation points to a weapon having prevailed.

The whole idea of prevailing brings greatly into focus a notion that God has a purpose for His people prevailing in whatever He has empowered His people to accomplish – despite all odds. This distinction from mere monetary success is significant enough to draw attention away from any petty financial vulnerabilities or cravings that befall God's people.

At the same time, God's purposes in delivering His people from the evil of economic oppression are consistent with the objective of benefiting the “least of these.” To the extent that God's people have surrendered their individualistic yearnings to God, the bible's “seed for the sower” promises remain worthy of a believer's trust.

The same biblical chapter that demonstrates God's “least of these” measuring stick, also sets forth God's expectation that His servants will multiply any resources that He has given them. The unifying principle is that God does provide seed for the sower, and makes each of us responsible for multiplying that seed to reach this planet's greatest needs.

At no time should a person consider material wealth in itself to be sinful, or a barrier toward a closer walk with God. Concurrently, one should also realize that the purposes for that wealth are not for one's own individual “nest feathering” or for enriching some purported prosperity preacher.

God desires and expects His people to apply the fruits of one's labors toward righteous ends. This means giving first fruits and offerings toward the Gospel's advancement, and providing “alms to the poor.” This also means sharing financial acumen with those who need it, in the sense of “teaching a man to fish.” Additionally, this means sharing one's very being with those whom this society has forsaken.

God's prosperity plan is real, and completely encompassed in His redemptive plans – not bling-bling.