Speaking of Piper, I came across this clip on YouTube. He is talking about the "prosperity gospel." Watching this clip gives me goose bumps. THIS is why I am in seminary - to know the truth. -GrantJ
Monday, September 7, 2009
John Piper and the Prosperity Gospel
Sorry I haven't posted in awhile. I have been buried in reading and getting my house ready for closing this week. One book that I'm reading is John Piper's "Let the Nations be Glad." I plan to make a couple posts on this book. For now, I'll just say that it's been eye-opening on how I view world missions.
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Jesus said,"Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions" (Luke 12:15). But some people just don't get it, and the way they lead others astray makes me sad. The Lord was never too pleased about those who take from the poor to make themselves rich. I don't know why these people aren't ashamed. I pray they repent. How it must grieve His heart.
ReplyDeleteIt has been nice seeing you on my TV again on the weekends! You are still in my prayers.
God bless,
ChildOfGod
It is true that some people lead others astray, but the so called "prosperity" preachers are not the only ones who lead others astray. I have suffered loss and God has been glorified in those times, but I have also been blessed beyond my wildest dreams and God is still glorified through that and it is through my financial blessings that I am able to support the church and ministries that preach the gospel. I have been fortuante enough to take time off from jobs and spend a fair amount of money flying across the country and ministering to others. How could I possibly do that without money? I have a fantastic job, live in a lovely home, and give geneously to my church and others because I serve a God who wants to bless me in every way and that includes financially and God and God alone receives all the glory. I too grew up in a church that wanted to cleanse the church of God's "prosperity" for His children and His church, but I am so thankful that He taught me the whole truth. Blessings in your search for truth as well.
ReplyDeleteMichele,
ReplyDeleteThanks for commenting. I agree that oftentimes God blesses us financially. I don't believe there is anything wrong with financial prosperity. It doesn't make anyone more or less spiritual. What angers me is that there is no reason for it to be presented in context with the gospel. Gospel means "good news." There is no mention of being prosperous or the promise of ever being prosperous in the good news. It is solely good news because Christ died for our sins and we can accept that gift through grace. Prosperity has nothing to do with it. It shouldn't be our motivation. Unfortunately when presented within the context of the gospel, ie "God wants you to be prosperous", it sends the wrong message. All of a sudden prosperity becomes the primary pursuit, not God. Or God is sought solely for the purpose and hope of becoming prosperous.
Great discussion on a sensitive topic. Paul offered great words of warning to his protege, Timothy...
ReplyDelete"For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." (1 Tim. 6:10 NASB)
The warning isn't about money itself, but our attitude toward money. I hear Grant and Michele saying the same thing -- we should have a right perspective regarding money. A right perspective will allow us to see God's grace apart from money AND allow us to use money to His glory, if He chooses to bless us with more than we need.
Following Him,
Andy