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Health, Wealth & Happiness: Has the Prosperity Gospel Overshadowed the Gospel of Christ?
� Qu� sucede cuando la promesa de prosperidad eclipsa la promesa del verdadero evangelio -el evangelio de Cristo? Los autores, David Jones y Russell Woodbridge, creen que el evangelio de la prosperidad se construye sobre una teolog�a defectuosa. En este libro examinan las cinco �reas principales de error relacionadas con su ense�anza sobre las riquezas. De forma justa, pero firme, los autores hablan de la historia y la teolog�a del movimiento del evangelio de la prosperidad, y revelan sus ense�anzas centrales err�neas b�blicamente que han sido hist�rica y popularmente mal interpretadas, incluso por reconocidos pastores de hoy como T. D. Jakes, Joel Osteen, y Kenneth Copeland. Despu�s de una introducci�n y evaluaci�n del movimiento, se proporciona a los lectores un estudio de las Escrituras para entender lo que la Biblia dice acerca de las riquezas, la pobreza, el sufrimiento, y las ofrendas. What happens when the promise of prosperity overshadows the promise of the real gospel-the gospel of Christ? Believing that the prosperity gospel is constructed upon faulty theology, authors David Jones and Russell Woodbridge take a closer look at five crucial areas of error relating to the teaching of wealth. In a fair but firm tone, the authors discuss the history and theology of the prosperity gospel movement to reveal its fraudulent core biblical teachings that have been historically and popularly misinterpreted, even by today's most well-known pastors, including T. D. Jakes, Joel Osteen, and Kenneth Copeland. After an introduction and assessment of the movement, readers are invited to take a look at Scripture to understand what the Bible really says about wealth, poverty, suffering, and giving.
208 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2012
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April 2, 2013
46% of self-identifying Christians believe God will make them rich if they have enough faith.
This sobering statistic makes me sad, and sometimes angry, but rarely does it make me compassionate. After reading this book, I'm hopeful that this will become my default reaction to what is commonly known as the prosperity gospel.
As the authors state in the book's conclusion, "The prosperity gospel is not a harmless movement that is slightly off; rather it is a dangerous movement that has eternal consequences." Millions of people — including many within Southern Baptist churches — have been deceived by this pervasive system of false teaching, but I have never felt equipped (nor inclined) to do anything more than criticize. While critique is indeed necessary, what is needed more is for Christians to lovingly instruct those influenced (often unknowingly) by prosperity teachings and to bring them into an understanding of the true gospel. That is the purpose of this much needed book.
Jones and Woodbridge — both professors at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary — have compiled a significant amount of scholarly research, combined it with wise pastoral counsel, and packaged it all into a very short little book that manages to be thorough without being overwhelming. They begin by investigating the history of prosperity theology, then address specific errors in the teaching of some of its most prominent proponents, and end by providing a sound, Biblical theology of suffering and giving.
Having never actually looked very deeply into the teachings of the prosperity gospel before — I tried to read Your Best Life Now once to try to understand the appeal, but I couldn't bear to continue after a few agonizing chapters — I was interested to read about its origins in an intellectual movement called "New Thought", which had its beginnings in the early 18th century. It was no great shock to see that the foundational doctrines of the "Word-Faith Movement" are simply a recycled godless philosophy with a quasi-Christian veneer slapped on.
What surprised me, though, was how the authors managed to help me see these heretical doctrines through the eyes of those who are deceived by them. Where perhaps I expected to find ammunition for future theological debates, I found something totally unexpected: sympathy. "Think about how devastating this philosophy can be to someone who has cancer," readers are exhorted. If all that is required to experience healing is enough faith (and maybe a little "seed money" sent to your favorite televangelist), "You are the reason you have cancer. You are at fault." How tragic!
As I read on through the section that broke down the specific teachings of prosperity preachers from E.W. Kenyon and Kenneth Hagin to Creflo Dollar and Kenneth Copeland, I began to see how hurting people might be drawn to their "ministries". This is particularly true when it comes to "prosperity lite" teachers such as T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyer, and Joel Osteen (to whom is devoted an entire lengthy section). Their sermons and writings are often saturated with Scripture, which lends the appearance of wisdom, but they habitually rip verses from their biblical context. When combined with a genuinely likable personality and great marketing, this is a recipe for a large following.
The question that began nagging me about halfway through the book was, "How can I help people who have been caught up in this teaching see that it is a counterfeit gospel?" The answer, of course, is the same way the Secret Service identifies counterfeit currency. If you want to know how to recognize a fake, you've got to become intimately familiar with the real thing.
For this reason, the final third of the book is devoted to presenting sound theological principles in place of the distortions of the prosperity gospel. In particular, the authors focus on the Bible's teachings about suffering, wealth & poverty, and giving. The chapter on suffering is worth the price of the book all by itself!
Of course, there are also practical suggestions for lovingly ministering to those who embrace prosperity theology. These include everything from questions to ask as part of a spiritual self-diagnosis, to ways to start a dialogue about prosperity teachings, to exhortations to pray and preach the gospel. All served as reminders that millions of people are in bondage to false teaching, but Jesus came to set captives free!
Whether or not you know anyone who has been taken in by the "prosperity" message, it is important to be aware of it and able to clearly articulate the genuine the Truth in love. This book will help you do that. Buy it here .
This sobering statistic makes me sad, and sometimes angry, but rarely does it make me compassionate. After reading this book, I'm hopeful that this will become my default reaction to what is commonly known as the prosperity gospel.
As the authors state in the book's conclusion, "The prosperity gospel is not a harmless movement that is slightly off; rather it is a dangerous movement that has eternal consequences." Millions of people — including many within Southern Baptist churches — have been deceived by this pervasive system of false teaching, but I have never felt equipped (nor inclined) to do anything more than criticize. While critique is indeed necessary, what is needed more is for Christians to lovingly instruct those influenced (often unknowingly) by prosperity teachings and to bring them into an understanding of the true gospel. That is the purpose of this much needed book.
Jones and Woodbridge — both professors at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary — have compiled a significant amount of scholarly research, combined it with wise pastoral counsel, and packaged it all into a very short little book that manages to be thorough without being overwhelming. They begin by investigating the history of prosperity theology, then address specific errors in the teaching of some of its most prominent proponents, and end by providing a sound, Biblical theology of suffering and giving.
Having never actually looked very deeply into the teachings of the prosperity gospel before — I tried to read Your Best Life Now once to try to understand the appeal, but I couldn't bear to continue after a few agonizing chapters — I was interested to read about its origins in an intellectual movement called "New Thought", which had its beginnings in the early 18th century. It was no great shock to see that the foundational doctrines of the "Word-Faith Movement" are simply a recycled godless philosophy with a quasi-Christian veneer slapped on.
What surprised me, though, was how the authors managed to help me see these heretical doctrines through the eyes of those who are deceived by them. Where perhaps I expected to find ammunition for future theological debates, I found something totally unexpected: sympathy. "Think about how devastating this philosophy can be to someone who has cancer," readers are exhorted. If all that is required to experience healing is enough faith (and maybe a little "seed money" sent to your favorite televangelist), "You are the reason you have cancer. You are at fault." How tragic!
As I read on through the section that broke down the specific teachings of prosperity preachers from E.W. Kenyon and Kenneth Hagin to Creflo Dollar and Kenneth Copeland, I began to see how hurting people might be drawn to their "ministries". This is particularly true when it comes to "prosperity lite" teachers such as T.D. Jakes, Joyce Meyer, and Joel Osteen (to whom is devoted an entire lengthy section). Their sermons and writings are often saturated with Scripture, which lends the appearance of wisdom, but they habitually rip verses from their biblical context. When combined with a genuinely likable personality and great marketing, this is a recipe for a large following.
The question that began nagging me about halfway through the book was, "How can I help people who have been caught up in this teaching see that it is a counterfeit gospel?" The answer, of course, is the same way the Secret Service identifies counterfeit currency. If you want to know how to recognize a fake, you've got to become intimately familiar with the real thing.
For this reason, the final third of the book is devoted to presenting sound theological principles in place of the distortions of the prosperity gospel. In particular, the authors focus on the Bible's teachings about suffering, wealth & poverty, and giving. The chapter on suffering is worth the price of the book all by itself!
Of course, there are also practical suggestions for lovingly ministering to those who embrace prosperity theology. These include everything from questions to ask as part of a spiritual self-diagnosis, to ways to start a dialogue about prosperity teachings, to exhortations to pray and preach the gospel. All served as reminders that millions of people are in bondage to false teaching, but Jesus came to set captives free!
Whether or not you know anyone who has been taken in by the "prosperity" message, it is important to be aware of it and able to clearly articulate the genuine the Truth in love. This book will help you do that. Buy it here .
July 26, 2012
The prosperity gospel is truly a serious threat in both the US and abroad. It is deceptive and damning and there are probably more Christians who have been duped by it than we care to admit. Jones and Woodbridge express the hope and prayer that "the Lord would use this book to draw people away from the prosperity gospel and toward the gospel of Christ, for only in Him is there true prosperity." To that I add my hearty amen. They have done a great service to the church by writing this book.
The book is designed to give an introduction to what the 'health and wealth' preachers really teach and expose their connection to a false teaching called 'new thought.' There are multiple quotations from well-known teachers as infamous as Robert Tilton and as popular as Joel Osteen and Joyce Meyer. The authors also are clear about the one true gospel and how incompatible the prosperity gospel is with it. After the critique in the first half of the book, the second half sets forth the biblical perspective on issues like suffering and giving, areas that the prosperity gospel focuses heavily on and get seriously wrong.
Pastor's wanting a clear and concise book to hand to church members on how far the prosperity gospel diverges from the biblical gospel will find just what they are looking for in the volume. But those who already have a fair grasp of the basic teaching of prosperity preachers and are looking for a detailed and extensive critique will want to look elsewhere.
This really is a good book and I hope many are helped by it to see through the Christian facade of the health and wealth teachers. The reason I gave it two stars is it has no life. There is no real vibrancy or passion in the text. Perhaps that was intentional so that the authors could not be charged with vitriol or a merely emotional response. But as it is, its a rather dry read.
That said, I would unhesitatingly recommended it for all who want a basic guide to the prosperity gospel and its errors.
The book is designed to give an introduction to what the 'health and wealth' preachers really teach and expose their connection to a false teaching called 'new thought.' There are multiple quotations from well-known teachers as infamous as Robert Tilton and as popular as Joel Osteen and Joyce Meyer. The authors also are clear about the one true gospel and how incompatible the prosperity gospel is with it. After the critique in the first half of the book, the second half sets forth the biblical perspective on issues like suffering and giving, areas that the prosperity gospel focuses heavily on and get seriously wrong.
Pastor's wanting a clear and concise book to hand to church members on how far the prosperity gospel diverges from the biblical gospel will find just what they are looking for in the volume. But those who already have a fair grasp of the basic teaching of prosperity preachers and are looking for a detailed and extensive critique will want to look elsewhere.
This really is a good book and I hope many are helped by it to see through the Christian facade of the health and wealth teachers. The reason I gave it two stars is it has no life. There is no real vibrancy or passion in the text. Perhaps that was intentional so that the authors could not be charged with vitriol or a merely emotional response. But as it is, its a rather dry read.
That said, I would unhesitatingly recommended it for all who want a basic guide to the prosperity gospel and its errors.
August 3, 2018
Although I am not a proponent of prosperity theology, I was very put off by some of this books opening suppositions: that prosperity teachers do not believe in the trinity, that they are pantheists, etc. (p. 29) The rest of the book is pretty solid.
"Prosperity teachers not only misinterpret the atonement but also abuse it by stressing the benefits of the cross while ignoring its claims. The cross becomes little more than a means to an end: Jesus died for your sins so that you can be prosperous and healthy." (p. 52)
Rather than just attack wrong teachings, these authors spend a significant time showing the biblical view of suffering and prosperity. The chapter on poverty vs. wealth was excellent, tracing biblical themes of both throughout the scriptures.
"Prosperity teachers not only misinterpret the atonement but also abuse it by stressing the benefits of the cross while ignoring its claims. The cross becomes little more than a means to an end: Jesus died for your sins so that you can be prosperous and healthy." (p. 52)
Rather than just attack wrong teachings, these authors spend a significant time showing the biblical view of suffering and prosperity. The chapter on poverty vs. wealth was excellent, tracing biblical themes of both throughout the scriptures.
March 6, 2021
Great look at the foundations of the heretical prosperity gospel and push toward a biblical viewpoint of wealth and poverty! Neither wealth nor poverty is inherently bad or inherently good!
January 6, 2014
David W. Jones and Russell S. Woodbridge, Health, Wealth and Happiness: Has the Prosperity Gospel Overshadowed the Gospel of Christ? (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 2011). Paperback / Kindle
Health, Wealth and Happiness by David W. Jones and Russell S. Woodbridge offers both a critique of prosperity theology as well as an exposition of what the Bible really teaches about suffering, wealth and poverty, and giving. Regarding the critique, it identifies major theological errors in prosperity theology without concluding that adherents are not Christians. And regarding the exposition, its approach outlines biblical teaching in the context of salvation history, i.e., creation, fall, and redemption.
As a minister, I would use this book in several ways. First, I would recommend it to my congregation for reading. Second, I would use it to help outline a sermon series on prosperity theology. The twofold movement of “critique” (Part 1) and “correction” (Part 2) is a helpful way to organize the movement of your sermons. Show the errors first, then show the truths. Moreover, the next time I preach on 1 Corinthians 16:1–2 or 2 Corinthians 8–9, I plan on borrowing Jones and Woodbridges’ principles of giving: Giving should be periodic, personal, planned, proportionate, and plentiful (pp. 154–155). Third, I would encourage Sunday school classes and small groups to use it as the basis of a 6-week curriculum. This is an ideal book for group use: It is short, irenic, thought-provoking, and readable.
That doesn’t mean I agree with everything Jones and Woodbridge write. For one thing, as a Pentecostal, I affirm the doctrine of healing in the atonement, while they don’t. Christ’s death and resurrection reconciles us to God both spiritually and physically. For some, this healing happens “now”; for others, it has “not yet” happened but will. The question, it seems to me, is not whether healing is provided for in the atonement but when it will occur.
Indeed, one of the major problems of prosperity theology—oddly unmentioned by Jones and Woodbridge—is its overrealized eschatology. While believers experience tokens of the New Heaven and New Earth in the present, they will experience the fullness of these things in the future. Prosperity theology promises more than the Bible (and Christian experience, for that matter) says will be delivered in this lifetime.
Third, it seems to me that we need to stop thinking of prosperity theology as one set of beliefs. Jones and Woodbridge note that prosperity theologians differ among themselves. For example, hardcore Word of Faith theology is different than, say, Joel Osteen’s “prosperity light” theology. I would add that the word prosperity itself means different things to different people. To a middle-class North American, it means a Mercedes and a bigger house. To an African eking out a subsistence living, it means having enough to live one, and then some. Perhaps we should start talking about prosperity theologies in the plural and recognizing that a one-size critique does not fit all of them.
That brings me to a fourth and final point: Perhaps so many people find prosperity theology (of one kind or another) attractive precisely because we have de-emphasized what the Bible teaches about bodily health and material wellbeing. It’s one thing for already-rich North Americans to look askance at televangelists who preach what amounts to slick defenses of gluttony. (Our North American social context is where Jones and Woodbridge’s critique works best.) It’s another thing for “the wretched of the earth” to read the Bible’s robust promise of provision and healing in Matthew 6:18–34 and James 5:13–16 and then to believe them. Shouldn’t we be be careful lest, in pooh-poohing the faith of these Majority World believers—most of whom adhere to some version of prosperity theology—we teach them to become people of “little faith”?
P.S. If you found my review helpful, please vote “Yes” on my Amazon.com review page.
Health, Wealth and Happiness by David W. Jones and Russell S. Woodbridge offers both a critique of prosperity theology as well as an exposition of what the Bible really teaches about suffering, wealth and poverty, and giving. Regarding the critique, it identifies major theological errors in prosperity theology without concluding that adherents are not Christians. And regarding the exposition, its approach outlines biblical teaching in the context of salvation history, i.e., creation, fall, and redemption.
As a minister, I would use this book in several ways. First, I would recommend it to my congregation for reading. Second, I would use it to help outline a sermon series on prosperity theology. The twofold movement of “critique” (Part 1) and “correction” (Part 2) is a helpful way to organize the movement of your sermons. Show the errors first, then show the truths. Moreover, the next time I preach on 1 Corinthians 16:1–2 or 2 Corinthians 8–9, I plan on borrowing Jones and Woodbridges’ principles of giving: Giving should be periodic, personal, planned, proportionate, and plentiful (pp. 154–155). Third, I would encourage Sunday school classes and small groups to use it as the basis of a 6-week curriculum. This is an ideal book for group use: It is short, irenic, thought-provoking, and readable.
That doesn’t mean I agree with everything Jones and Woodbridge write. For one thing, as a Pentecostal, I affirm the doctrine of healing in the atonement, while they don’t. Christ’s death and resurrection reconciles us to God both spiritually and physically. For some, this healing happens “now”; for others, it has “not yet” happened but will. The question, it seems to me, is not whether healing is provided for in the atonement but when it will occur.
Indeed, one of the major problems of prosperity theology—oddly unmentioned by Jones and Woodbridge—is its overrealized eschatology. While believers experience tokens of the New Heaven and New Earth in the present, they will experience the fullness of these things in the future. Prosperity theology promises more than the Bible (and Christian experience, for that matter) says will be delivered in this lifetime.
Third, it seems to me that we need to stop thinking of prosperity theology as one set of beliefs. Jones and Woodbridge note that prosperity theologians differ among themselves. For example, hardcore Word of Faith theology is different than, say, Joel Osteen’s “prosperity light” theology. I would add that the word prosperity itself means different things to different people. To a middle-class North American, it means a Mercedes and a bigger house. To an African eking out a subsistence living, it means having enough to live one, and then some. Perhaps we should start talking about prosperity theologies in the plural and recognizing that a one-size critique does not fit all of them.
That brings me to a fourth and final point: Perhaps so many people find prosperity theology (of one kind or another) attractive precisely because we have de-emphasized what the Bible teaches about bodily health and material wellbeing. It’s one thing for already-rich North Americans to look askance at televangelists who preach what amounts to slick defenses of gluttony. (Our North American social context is where Jones and Woodbridge’s critique works best.) It’s another thing for “the wretched of the earth” to read the Bible’s robust promise of provision and healing in Matthew 6:18–34 and James 5:13–16 and then to believe them. Shouldn’t we be be careful lest, in pooh-poohing the faith of these Majority World believers—most of whom adhere to some version of prosperity theology—we teach them to become people of “little faith”?
P.S. If you found my review helpful, please vote “Yes” on my Amazon.com review page.
January 27, 2023
“Health, Wealth, and Happiness” details the differences between the false Word of Faith movement’s teaching versus the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. I’m so grateful to have discovered this book because it helped me to find the truth after having been taught things for years that were unbiblical.
It contains a wealth of information concerning the Word of Faith movement’s problematic origins. The book covers different aspects of the prosperity movement’s teaching, comparing it to the truths and principles of God’s Word.
This book details what you need to know about the false Word of Faith gospel versus what the Bible actually teaches, such as:
• What the false prosperity gospel actually is.
• The origin and history of the Word of Faith movement.
• Errors and unbiblical teachings of the prosperity gospel.
• What the Bible actually teaches on suffering, wealth, poverty, and giving.
Notable quotes:
“Instead of promising Christ, this gospel promises health and wealth… According to this new gospel, if believers repeat positive confessions, focus their thoughts, and generate enough faith, God will release blessings upon their lives. This new gospel claims that God desires and even promises that believers will live a healthy and financially prosperous life.”
“It is difficult, if not impossible, to find anyone in either the Old or New Testament who experienced a pain-free life on account of their faith. Many passages in the Bible presume that suffering is a regular part of the Christian life.“
“…believers must take up their cross daily and die to self in order to live for Christ (Matt. 16:24). The cross demands that followers of Christ make sacrifices for the sake of the kingdom of God and exalt God rather than themselves.”
This book contains such a wealth of information. I highly recommend it to all believers so we can be equipped with the truth in the face of this all-too-popular false teaching.
It contains a wealth of information concerning the Word of Faith movement’s problematic origins. The book covers different aspects of the prosperity movement’s teaching, comparing it to the truths and principles of God’s Word.
This book details what you need to know about the false Word of Faith gospel versus what the Bible actually teaches, such as:
• What the false prosperity gospel actually is.
• The origin and history of the Word of Faith movement.
• Errors and unbiblical teachings of the prosperity gospel.
• What the Bible actually teaches on suffering, wealth, poverty, and giving.
Notable quotes:
“Instead of promising Christ, this gospel promises health and wealth… According to this new gospel, if believers repeat positive confessions, focus their thoughts, and generate enough faith, God will release blessings upon their lives. This new gospel claims that God desires and even promises that believers will live a healthy and financially prosperous life.”
“It is difficult, if not impossible, to find anyone in either the Old or New Testament who experienced a pain-free life on account of their faith. Many passages in the Bible presume that suffering is a regular part of the Christian life.“
“…believers must take up their cross daily and die to self in order to live for Christ (Matt. 16:24). The cross demands that followers of Christ make sacrifices for the sake of the kingdom of God and exalt God rather than themselves.”
This book contains such a wealth of information. I highly recommend it to all believers so we can be equipped with the truth in the face of this all-too-popular false teaching.
March 2, 2015
This is a helpful resource for those looking for a critique of the prosperity gospel. The authors argue, "The prosperity gospel is not a harmless movement that is slightly off; rather it is a dangerous movement that has eternal consequences." They critique the false and dangerous gospel that is preached by Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, Creflo Dollar, Paula White, Benny Hinn, TD Jakes, Kenneth Copeland, and others. Their false gospel contains, "false promises, promotes self-exaltation, and ultimately does not satisfy."
The goal of this book is to inform readers about the prosperity gospel, as well as to give biblical teaching on wealth, poverty, suffering, and giving. It certainly accomplishes this goal. Likely, those needing and wanting information on the prosperity gospel will want to start here, but I actually think more needs to be said on the subject. This book is concise, and in that sense helpful, but a fuller and more robust biblical theology could have helped give it more life (as other reviewers have said it needed). The best chapter in the book was Chapter 6, "The Biblical Teaching on Giving," because they did a pretty good job describing a biblical theology of giving.
As I mentioned, though, this is a good place to start!
The goal of this book is to inform readers about the prosperity gospel, as well as to give biblical teaching on wealth, poverty, suffering, and giving. It certainly accomplishes this goal. Likely, those needing and wanting information on the prosperity gospel will want to start here, but I actually think more needs to be said on the subject. This book is concise, and in that sense helpful, but a fuller and more robust biblical theology could have helped give it more life (as other reviewers have said it needed). The best chapter in the book was Chapter 6, "The Biblical Teaching on Giving," because they did a pretty good job describing a biblical theology of giving.
As I mentioned, though, this is a good place to start!
December 29, 2019
Practical book warning against prosperity gospel
This is a helpful book, outlining some of the key origins and theological faults of the prosperity gospel (PG). The book is composed in two parts. The first describes the PG's history and doctrines, and the second part attempts to provide a summary of biblical teaching on healing, suffering, and money as an alternative to the PG. The intended audience is likely church laity, which means that the portrayal of the issues is necessarily generalized.
The authors are not unfair in their description and assessment of the PG, but at times there is a lack of nuance. Further, Calvinist/popular evangelical assumptions seem to be at play throughout, meaning that the PG is evaluated based on perhaps too simplistic of a theological system, although given the intended audience and agenda (practical help) this may be inevitable. For example, when critiquing Joel Osteen's theology, it is asserted that Osteen does not sufficiently emphasize the cross and suffering, and therefore he is teaching a false gospel. Gospel is then narrowly defined as sinners needing forgiveness and justification through Christ. I don't want to defend Osteen here, since I find his preaching to be rather shallow, but the gospel cannot be reduced to individual "sin management" (to use Dallas Willard's term). Rather, the good news is that in and through Jesus all things will be made right (and God has made a way for individuals to participate). It is the entire story of Jesus, not my story of my interaction with Jesus. It would be helpful to see what a critique from a fuller view of "gospel" would look like for these authors.
The debate over the PG is also by not quite as simple as is portrayed here, although I share the authors' concern over its abuses. The book at least does note that there is a strong and weaker form of the PG. It is the stronger form that seems more explicitly tied to 19th century New Thought, and which probably deserves the severest critique. I do think the presentation of New Thought and it's connection to current PG teachers is described in a clear and concise way, and readers may be surprised to see some integration of questionable metaphysics into Christian preaching.
Regarding the second part of the book, the teaching here does a good job of summarizing some of the biblical material on how Christians should handle suffering and money, emphasizing overall that the life of a disciple is one lived for the Lord and not immediate material gain. The biblical content is handled fairly, and pastoral applications are provided in each chapter. The authors even breach the subject of tithing, raising doubt in whether it is necessarily required of believers today (while advocating generous giving that need not stop at 10%). In this point I think they are being quite consistent with their anti-PG stance, since the way tithing is often taught today is really a mild expression of PG assumptions. A minor irritation for me was the authors' point re the use of biblical narrative material (in Acts) not being suitable for developing principles. I understand their caution, but the conversation in this matter has evolved considerably in the past few decades, and narrative genre deserves more attention for the development of doctrine that sometimes assumed.
Overall, this would be a good book for introducing some of the key teachings and background to PG, but other perspectives may help round out the conclusions of this book. For those interested, Kate Bowler's *Blessed* provides a more detailed and nuanced history of the PG movement and doctrines.
This is a helpful book, outlining some of the key origins and theological faults of the prosperity gospel (PG). The book is composed in two parts. The first describes the PG's history and doctrines, and the second part attempts to provide a summary of biblical teaching on healing, suffering, and money as an alternative to the PG. The intended audience is likely church laity, which means that the portrayal of the issues is necessarily generalized.
The authors are not unfair in their description and assessment of the PG, but at times there is a lack of nuance. Further, Calvinist/popular evangelical assumptions seem to be at play throughout, meaning that the PG is evaluated based on perhaps too simplistic of a theological system, although given the intended audience and agenda (practical help) this may be inevitable. For example, when critiquing Joel Osteen's theology, it is asserted that Osteen does not sufficiently emphasize the cross and suffering, and therefore he is teaching a false gospel. Gospel is then narrowly defined as sinners needing forgiveness and justification through Christ. I don't want to defend Osteen here, since I find his preaching to be rather shallow, but the gospel cannot be reduced to individual "sin management" (to use Dallas Willard's term). Rather, the good news is that in and through Jesus all things will be made right (and God has made a way for individuals to participate). It is the entire story of Jesus, not my story of my interaction with Jesus. It would be helpful to see what a critique from a fuller view of "gospel" would look like for these authors.
The debate over the PG is also by not quite as simple as is portrayed here, although I share the authors' concern over its abuses. The book at least does note that there is a strong and weaker form of the PG. It is the stronger form that seems more explicitly tied to 19th century New Thought, and which probably deserves the severest critique. I do think the presentation of New Thought and it's connection to current PG teachers is described in a clear and concise way, and readers may be surprised to see some integration of questionable metaphysics into Christian preaching.
Regarding the second part of the book, the teaching here does a good job of summarizing some of the biblical material on how Christians should handle suffering and money, emphasizing overall that the life of a disciple is one lived for the Lord and not immediate material gain. The biblical content is handled fairly, and pastoral applications are provided in each chapter. The authors even breach the subject of tithing, raising doubt in whether it is necessarily required of believers today (while advocating generous giving that need not stop at 10%). In this point I think they are being quite consistent with their anti-PG stance, since the way tithing is often taught today is really a mild expression of PG assumptions. A minor irritation for me was the authors' point re the use of biblical narrative material (in Acts) not being suitable for developing principles. I understand their caution, but the conversation in this matter has evolved considerably in the past few decades, and narrative genre deserves more attention for the development of doctrine that sometimes assumed.
Overall, this would be a good book for introducing some of the key teachings and background to PG, but other perspectives may help round out the conclusions of this book. For those interested, Kate Bowler's *Blessed* provides a more detailed and nuanced history of the PG movement and doctrines.
Read
June 8, 2024A concise, yet very clear and eye-opening journey through the history of the Word of Faith movement, exposing its roots found in the Swedenborgian church and tracing it all the way to Joyce Meyer, Creflo Dollar and the likes. Absolutely recommended in researching how the prosperity gospel came about – a gospel that has sadly not only overtaken entire churches, but has also negatively influenced the theology of many, and is still doing it today.
The second part of the book is an attempt to summarize what the Biblical of finances is. It may be seen as completely separate from the first part, and you won't miss to much by reading just the journalistic gem that is the first part. Only read the second part if you want a basic overview, without absolute, final answers, to the rather complicated, seemingly contradictive teaching found in the Bible.
The second part of the book is an attempt to summarize what the Biblical of finances is. It may be seen as completely separate from the first part, and you won't miss to much by reading just the journalistic gem that is the first part. Only read the second part if you want a basic overview, without absolute, final answers, to the rather complicated, seemingly contradictive teaching found in the Bible.
November 28, 2018
In Health, Wealth, & Happiness David Jones and Russell Woodbridge examine the historical and theological foundations of the prosperity gospel and its roots in the 19th century movement known as New Thought. After considering the history of the prosperity gospel, they summarize the teachings of the prosperity gospel in regard to doctrinal errors.
This false gospel threatens churches across the globe through soft advocates like Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, and T.D. Jakes.
This false gospel threatens churches across the globe through soft advocates like Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, and T.D. Jakes.
May 19, 2020
Health, Wealth and Happiness was the perfect tool to help me understand the Prosperity Gospel. The explanation of Scripture passages misused to promote this teaching made it very clear that a sound hermeneutic is clearly missing in Prosperity Gospel teaching. I had my seminary students think through two questions: 1. How easy, or not, can the Prosperity Gospel edge itself into churches with sound teaching and why?, 2. What the church can do to protect itself?
July 20, 2017
Good, concise explanation of the errors of prosperity theology. The first half of the book is about what prosperity gospel teachers believe, the second half is what the Bible teaches about the same things. This book is more of an overview than an in-depth study of prosperity theology. Well worth a read.
February 8, 2019
Clear and Concise
Here is a clear and concise refutation of the Prosperity Gospel. The Prosperity "Gospel" is not the Gospel. It is a repackaging of old heresies, and it is seriously dangerous and must be confronted.
Here is a clear and concise refutation of the Prosperity Gospel. The Prosperity "Gospel" is not the Gospel. It is a repackaging of old heresies, and it is seriously dangerous and must be confronted.
April 21, 2025
A Needed Warning for Laodicea
I have seen the slipping of some towards prosperity gospel. This book details what I have seen. The excuses I have heard are also in this book. Thank you for speaking truth.
I have seen the slipping of some towards prosperity gospel. This book details what I have seen. The excuses I have heard are also in this book. Thank you for speaking truth.
September 23, 2019
I really liked this book! I'm surprised by how much! It was so helpful and interesting! A great reference for those with questions or concerns about this pervading movement in the Church.
July 21, 2020
This book reveals the underbelly of the foundations, teaching and error of the prosperity gospel. It then offers great hope in what the Bible really teaches! Well worth the read.
November 5, 2022
A simple, good introduction to the prosperity gospel. Jones and Woodbridge provide convincing critiques against this false teaching and offer the true gospel throughout.
May 22, 2023
I’d hand this to just about anyone in America to understand and respond biblically to the prosperity gospel.
February 4, 2024
This book against the demonstration of the prosperity gospel and explained why that's a wrong movement. There are many names for the prosperity gospel, and this book is named explicitly.
April 5, 2025
A decent, short guide summarising the main biblical arguments against the prosperity gospel.
April 7, 2011
Being unsure if he would ever see them again, Paul called together the elders of the church at Ephesus. He reminded them of their duty to protect God’s flock. He told them to be on guard because he knew eventually savage wolves would try to feed off the flock. These wolves in sheep’s clothing, with their perverse gospel, would seek to gather as many sheep around them as they could. Paul doesn’t say exactly what this perverse gospel would be, but perhaps he had it in mind as he concluded his words to the elders. “I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothes,” he reminded them. He then left them with the words of the Lord Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Some years later, Paul sent Timothy to Ephesus to combat these wolves that Paul had warned of. Prominent among the false teaching being used to fleece the sheep was “that godliness is a means of gain.” These depraved men, deprived of the truth, had discovered a way to make money off ministry. By practicing what they preached, they were getting rich off Jesus. This prosperity teaching however was ruining people’s faith.
Today’s church is also confronted with this perverse gospel. Ironically, while claiming to encourage faith, the “Prosperity Gospel” actually destroys people’s faith, by substituting faith in the real gospel with faith in faith. As David Jones and Russell Woodbridge point out in their just released book Health, Wealth & Happiness: Has the Prosperity Gospel Overshadowed the Gospel of Christ? the prosperity gospel’s roots are found in the “New Thought” movement of the early twentieth century. “In the New Thought works, one can discern some of the key recurring elements of the prosperity gospel: speaking the right words, invoking a universal law of success with words, and having faith in oneself” (p. 31).
Jones and Woodbridge have PhDs from and teach at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. They are both uniquely qualified in the areas of finance and Christianity. They have produced a very informative and readable critique of the prosperity movement within evangelicalism.
The book’s six chapters are grouped under two headings. Chapters one through three offer a critique of the prosperity gospel and prosperity preachers. Chapters four through six offer a correction of the false teaching of prosperity. Chapter one excavates the foundations of the prosperity gospel as being built upon “New Thought Philosophy.” In chapter two one can readily see the link between this philosophy and the unorthodoxy of the prosperity message. They conclude, “while many prosperity teachers offer the plan of salvation, they undermine the gospel with their teaching” (p.71). Jones and Woodbridge use Joel Osteen as an example. “While Osteen certainly appears genuine and sincere in his faith, his prosperity message is anything by harmless” (p. 73). They go on to demonstrate how Osteen “misinterprets Scripture, misunderstands the gospel, and lacks theological conviction” (p. 73). Chapter three exposes the errors of prosperity theology by examining how it perverts Scripture’s teaching on: the gospel, faith, atonement, the Abrahamic Covenant, the mind, prayer, the Bible, and giving.
“An aspect of the prosperity gospel that makes it attractive to many believers is that it contains elements of biblical truth. Historically speaking, this has been a mark of nearly all false teaching and heresy; few would accept teaching that was clearly unbiblical” (p. 123). Part two offers a corrective by scrutinizing what the Bible really teaches about suffering (chapter four), wealth and poverty (chapter five) and giving (chapter six).
For my money, chapter five provided the most food for thought. It concludes:
Whereas the biblical gospel encourages people to work in order to meet their needs, the prosperity gospel emphasizes the conjuring of mystical forces of faith in order to meet material needs; whereas the biblical gospel stresses focusing on the material needs of others, especially those who are impoverished, the prosperity gospel focuses on acquiring wealth for oneself; and finally, whereas the biblical gospel warns people about the spiritual pitfalls of accumulated wealth, the prosperity gospel is consumed with the accumulation of wealth. The prosperity gospel is no gospel at all (p. 140).
As a pastor, it is my job to counter false teaching. Through the media, wolves have infiltrated my flock. I will recommend this book to anyone in my flock that is in danger of being devoured.
Kregel Publications freely provided this book for review and there was no expectation of a positive review.
Some years later, Paul sent Timothy to Ephesus to combat these wolves that Paul had warned of. Prominent among the false teaching being used to fleece the sheep was “that godliness is a means of gain.” These depraved men, deprived of the truth, had discovered a way to make money off ministry. By practicing what they preached, they were getting rich off Jesus. This prosperity teaching however was ruining people’s faith.
Today’s church is also confronted with this perverse gospel. Ironically, while claiming to encourage faith, the “Prosperity Gospel” actually destroys people’s faith, by substituting faith in the real gospel with faith in faith. As David Jones and Russell Woodbridge point out in their just released book Health, Wealth & Happiness: Has the Prosperity Gospel Overshadowed the Gospel of Christ? the prosperity gospel’s roots are found in the “New Thought” movement of the early twentieth century. “In the New Thought works, one can discern some of the key recurring elements of the prosperity gospel: speaking the right words, invoking a universal law of success with words, and having faith in oneself” (p. 31).
Jones and Woodbridge have PhDs from and teach at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. They are both uniquely qualified in the areas of finance and Christianity. They have produced a very informative and readable critique of the prosperity movement within evangelicalism.
The book’s six chapters are grouped under two headings. Chapters one through three offer a critique of the prosperity gospel and prosperity preachers. Chapters four through six offer a correction of the false teaching of prosperity. Chapter one excavates the foundations of the prosperity gospel as being built upon “New Thought Philosophy.” In chapter two one can readily see the link between this philosophy and the unorthodoxy of the prosperity message. They conclude, “while many prosperity teachers offer the plan of salvation, they undermine the gospel with their teaching” (p.71). Jones and Woodbridge use Joel Osteen as an example. “While Osteen certainly appears genuine and sincere in his faith, his prosperity message is anything by harmless” (p. 73). They go on to demonstrate how Osteen “misinterprets Scripture, misunderstands the gospel, and lacks theological conviction” (p. 73). Chapter three exposes the errors of prosperity theology by examining how it perverts Scripture’s teaching on: the gospel, faith, atonement, the Abrahamic Covenant, the mind, prayer, the Bible, and giving.
“An aspect of the prosperity gospel that makes it attractive to many believers is that it contains elements of biblical truth. Historically speaking, this has been a mark of nearly all false teaching and heresy; few would accept teaching that was clearly unbiblical” (p. 123). Part two offers a corrective by scrutinizing what the Bible really teaches about suffering (chapter four), wealth and poverty (chapter five) and giving (chapter six).
For my money, chapter five provided the most food for thought. It concludes:
Whereas the biblical gospel encourages people to work in order to meet their needs, the prosperity gospel emphasizes the conjuring of mystical forces of faith in order to meet material needs; whereas the biblical gospel stresses focusing on the material needs of others, especially those who are impoverished, the prosperity gospel focuses on acquiring wealth for oneself; and finally, whereas the biblical gospel warns people about the spiritual pitfalls of accumulated wealth, the prosperity gospel is consumed with the accumulation of wealth. The prosperity gospel is no gospel at all (p. 140).
As a pastor, it is my job to counter false teaching. Through the media, wolves have infiltrated my flock. I will recommend this book to anyone in my flock that is in danger of being devoured.
Kregel Publications freely provided this book for review and there was no expectation of a positive review.
August 12, 2012
in my humble opinion, everyone needs to read this
false gospel is spiritually and physically dangerous; the treachery of it is only compounded when it's made to resemble true gospel. so this book is particularly vital for non-believers,
(though i can imagine the daunting challenge of convincing someone with pronounced hostilities toward organized religion to read a book about christianity..)
...since the most common indictment against 'houses' of faith..
(i use houses to mean families---presbyters, adventists, jews, mormons...---not actual structures/buildings..)
...are that they are hotbeds of hypocrisy, and the fervent believers are the flies on the dung heap. this dangerous, deceitful non-gospel is heard--and thanks to the televangelistic prosperity gospel, usually this is quite easily done, worldwide with the double-edged blades of tv and internet--and when the individuals who hungrily lap it up show themselves to be just as depraved as the rest of the world, with no signs of Christ's work in them, the transformative work of salvation is thought to be myth, and the triune God right along with it. and so the observers of all this become rightfully suspicious, resentful. because the spreaders of false doctrine have done what judge judy sheindlin so aptly describes: pissed on the proverbial leg and called it rain; they lie, cheat, and steal while claiming to belong to God, perhaps even highlighting your every mistake while inflating themselves on the noxious vapor of self-righteousness and overstating their inerrancy. and so thinking 'the church'--all church, any church--is full of hypocrites, all churches, all believers, all pastors are considered the same.**
and nothing grieves the heart of a believer more than this because we are instructed 'to demonstrate the Lord, that in so doing, others would see His good works through us and praise Him' [matt 5:16 and 1 pet 2:12]
(notice it says praise Him, not praise us..they are His good works, not ours..)
never mind if as a christian my character is sullied because of it--i deserve much worse--but heaven help the people who besmirch the name and reputation of God. can there be a greater offense?
so while i understand it may never happen, i do hope somehow the truth infiltrates not only the false congregations, no matter the denomination, but also the minds and homes of atheists and agnostics. God has been sorely misrepresented, as this fantastic book discusses, by irresponsible and greedy men. the only gladness is in knowing that God doesnt need anything or anyone to set the record straight on His behalf; He is mighty enough to do that all on His own.
**Disclaimer: now, certainly, this is not the way that every non-believer thinks, but this is a very common reason for rejecting religion/faith and a very common reason for doing so.
false gospel is spiritually and physically dangerous; the treachery of it is only compounded when it's made to resemble true gospel. so this book is particularly vital for non-believers,
(though i can imagine the daunting challenge of convincing someone with pronounced hostilities toward organized religion to read a book about christianity..)
...since the most common indictment against 'houses' of faith..
(i use houses to mean families---presbyters, adventists, jews, mormons...---not actual structures/buildings..)
...are that they are hotbeds of hypocrisy, and the fervent believers are the flies on the dung heap. this dangerous, deceitful non-gospel is heard--and thanks to the televangelistic prosperity gospel, usually this is quite easily done, worldwide with the double-edged blades of tv and internet--and when the individuals who hungrily lap it up show themselves to be just as depraved as the rest of the world, with no signs of Christ's work in them, the transformative work of salvation is thought to be myth, and the triune God right along with it. and so the observers of all this become rightfully suspicious, resentful. because the spreaders of false doctrine have done what judge judy sheindlin so aptly describes: pissed on the proverbial leg and called it rain; they lie, cheat, and steal while claiming to belong to God, perhaps even highlighting your every mistake while inflating themselves on the noxious vapor of self-righteousness and overstating their inerrancy. and so thinking 'the church'--all church, any church--is full of hypocrites, all churches, all believers, all pastors are considered the same.**
and nothing grieves the heart of a believer more than this because we are instructed 'to demonstrate the Lord, that in so doing, others would see His good works through us and praise Him' [matt 5:16 and 1 pet 2:12]
(notice it says praise Him, not praise us..they are His good works, not ours..)
never mind if as a christian my character is sullied because of it--i deserve much worse--but heaven help the people who besmirch the name and reputation of God. can there be a greater offense?
so while i understand it may never happen, i do hope somehow the truth infiltrates not only the false congregations, no matter the denomination, but also the minds and homes of atheists and agnostics. God has been sorely misrepresented, as this fantastic book discusses, by irresponsible and greedy men. the only gladness is in knowing that God doesnt need anything or anyone to set the record straight on His behalf; He is mighty enough to do that all on His own.
**Disclaimer: now, certainly, this is not the way that every non-believer thinks, but this is a very common reason for rejecting religion/faith and a very common reason for doing so.
April 1, 2013
The first half of the book did a sufficient job explaining some of the history behind the new thought movement. Proponents of this movement have had a heavy influence on prosperity preachers of today. However, this "new thought" is anything but new. Satan has been using this kind of thinking to deceive us since the beginning.
There seemed to be way too much finger pointing going on through out the first halve of this book. I got the impression that the message the author wanted to present was, we are right & they are wrong stay as far away from these people as you can. While there is some truth to that I have to disagree. Our objective as Christians should never be to win arguments but to win souls for Christ. In the conclusion of this book the author did encourage us to engage people who are held captive by this teaching. We need to come along side them and explain the truth. I didn't, however, feel he had any compassion for the individuals who are teaching this new thought. Now I understand Joel Osteen probably wouldn't except an invitation from me to have coffee anytime soon. In an attempt to explain the truth to him. We do, however, need to morn over his current standing with God. This should sadden us. Our prayer should be that someone would come along side him and explain the truth to him as well.
I believe our best defense against false teaching is to immerse yourself in the word of God daily. I was delighted when the author took that turn in the second halve of the book. While it wasn't an exhaustive study of what God has to say about this topic. I felt the second halve of this book was more necessary than the first. We need to study the bible daily to understand who God is and what he has taught us. That way when false teachers come around we'll be able to spot them a mile away.
I gave this book three stars. Two and a halve would probably be more accurate. Okay two for the fist halve. Three for the second halve.
There seemed to be way too much finger pointing going on through out the first halve of this book. I got the impression that the message the author wanted to present was, we are right & they are wrong stay as far away from these people as you can. While there is some truth to that I have to disagree. Our objective as Christians should never be to win arguments but to win souls for Christ. In the conclusion of this book the author did encourage us to engage people who are held captive by this teaching. We need to come along side them and explain the truth. I didn't, however, feel he had any compassion for the individuals who are teaching this new thought. Now I understand Joel Osteen probably wouldn't except an invitation from me to have coffee anytime soon. In an attempt to explain the truth to him. We do, however, need to morn over his current standing with God. This should sadden us. Our prayer should be that someone would come along side him and explain the truth to him as well.
I believe our best defense against false teaching is to immerse yourself in the word of God daily. I was delighted when the author took that turn in the second halve of the book. While it wasn't an exhaustive study of what God has to say about this topic. I felt the second halve of this book was more necessary than the first. We need to study the bible daily to understand who God is and what he has taught us. That way when false teachers come around we'll be able to spot them a mile away.
I gave this book three stars. Two and a halve would probably be more accurate. Okay two for the fist halve. Three for the second halve.
February 17, 2017
Thorough attack of the Prosperity Gospel in the first half, followed by a Biblical view of money and giving.
February 10, 2017
The prosperity gospel is a global movement, promising millions the golden triumvirate of health, wealth and happiness with the very credibility of God on the line. Jones and Woodbridge powerfully and Biblically demonstrate that, in the case of the health-wealth-and-happiness gospel, the emperor is clearly without close. If you or someone you love finds themselves caught up in this movement, this is one antidote I can highly commend.
February 15, 2015
This was a required book in my seminary class this semester and my professor was one of the co-authors. Overall, the book offers a robust critique of the prosperity gospel and an explanation of the biblical gospel. It's one of the most helpful books I've read critiquing the movement and offering biblical insight in opposition.
However, the book is extremely academic and dry with very little passion or life. Potentially, that was purposeful by the authors simply to offer an academic view on the subject, yet it seems that the best way to combat the prosperity gospel is to demonstrate the vibrancy of the biblical gospel itself.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more about the history, beliefs and dangers of the prosperity gospel and how to combat their claims biblically.
However, the book is extremely academic and dry with very little passion or life. Potentially, that was purposeful by the authors simply to offer an academic view on the subject, yet it seems that the best way to combat the prosperity gospel is to demonstrate the vibrancy of the biblical gospel itself.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more about the history, beliefs and dangers of the prosperity gospel and how to combat their claims biblically.
February 6, 2014
Solid overview of the Prosperity ("Name It & Claim It," "Word of Faith," etc.) Gospel and the implications of this movement on the Christian faith and the modern Christian Church. Dives into the motivations and history of the movement and contrasts these "beliefs" with what is actually in the Bible. The authors clearly refute the teachings of the Prosperity Gospel, name names, and lay out a compelling case as to why & how this is damaging the American Christian Church and, in general, American Christianity. In my opinion, this is a very important book and topic that every Bible-believing Christian and follower of Christ should read, study, & understand so as to not be taken in by the admittedly appealing beliefs of this movement.
April 25, 2012
If you have read Hank Hanegraaff’s book entitled “Christianity in Crisis” or books like it then there is nothing new here. In fact Hank’s book is far more thorough than this one. However if you have not looked into the Health & Wealth Teachings in the church you cannot go wrong with this one. As a bonus there are some good chapters detailing what the Bible says about suffering, wealth, and giving. They also incorporate the teachings of the newer prosperity teachers such as Joyce Meyer, T.D. Jakes and of course Joel Osteen. It is a good, informative quick read.
July 15, 2015
Read and Keep as Recourse. This is a fast, thorough read that covers the background and current threat of the Prosperity Gospel. It is Biblically sound and clearly written. Given the increasing popularity of teachers like Joel Osteen, it is an important read for the church today. The authors cover the main teachings of the Prosperity Gospel, and show how it distorts the Biblical Gospel and leads away from a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
April 1, 2017
An excellent and accessible book on the history and teaching of prosperity gospel and its proponents. This is a valuable resource to enable people to engage thoughtfully and carefully with adherents of this false gospel. The writing is clear, points are well argued, and fair. The authors offer sound biblical and corrective teaching and practical principles in areas of a theology of suffering, wealth and poverty, and giving.
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