In this episode of Wisdom for the Wilderness, the pastors of Overland Church dive into a critical theological discussion about the prosperity gospel, a pervasive and misleading doctrine both in America and globally. They contrast the true gospel—centered on Christ's death, burial, and resurrection for salvation—with the distorted teachings of the prosperity gospel, which falsely promises health, wealth, and success as a direct result of faith or financial giving. The episode explores various manifestations of this false gospel, including the "hard" prosperity teachings of figures like Creflo Dollar and Benny Hinn, the softer versions promoted by Joel Osteen and Steven Furtick, and related movements like Word of Faith, seed faith, and dominion theology. The pastors highlight how these teachings misuse Scripture, promote a works-based or faith-based entitlement to prosperity, and often leave followers feeling condemned when promises of wealth or healing fail. Through personal stories, biblical references like Galatians 1:6-9 and Romans 1:16-17, and cultural observations, they warn against the dangers of these teachings, emphasizing the true gospel's focus on Jesus as the source of hope amidst life's trials. The episode concludes with a call to discernment and a reminder to share the true gospel, which offers salvation and blessing even in hardship.

Resources

American Gospel Documentary: https://www.americangospelfilm.com

Costi Hinn's "God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel:" https://a.co/d/fT9paPw

Africa Statement on the Prosperity Gospel: https://africastatement.org