Rarely does a week go by without a conversation with individuals concerning the so called “Prosperity Gospel”. Rather than give you my thoughts on the subject (of which I have many), I decided I would let God’s Word speak directly to this issue from the book of 1 Timothy.
According to Paul,
5 And protracted wrangling and wearing discussion and perpetual friction among men who are corrupted in mind and bereft of the truth, who imagine that godliness or righteousness is a [a]source of profit [a moneymaking business, a means of livelihood]. From such withdraw. (1 Timothy 6:5 Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC))
Those ministries that teach the “Prosperity Gospel”, a message that usually includes a form of “God doesn’t want you to be poor no more” evidently failed to see or have willfully chosen to overlook this passage from Timothy where Paul specifically says “Those who teach such are corrupted in mind and bereft of the truth”.
Does this mean that God wants everyone to be poor?
Absolutely not. God does say in 1 Timothy 6:17-19
17 As for the rich in this world, charge them not to be proud and arrogant and contemptuous of others, nor set their hopes on uncertain riches but on God, Who richly and ceaselessly provides us with everything for (our) enjoyment;
18 (Charge them) to do good works, to be liberal and generous-hearted, ready to share (with others),
19 In this way laying up for themselves (the riches that endure forever) a good foundation for the future, so that they may grasp that which is life indeed. (Amplified Bible, Classic Addition (AMPC))
God blesses us with everything we need. Why? So that we may bless the kingdom for the furtherance of the gospel. Not so we can build our compounds, drive our Bentley or have our private planes so that we do not have to be around sinners.
Having wealth isn’t wrong. The pursuit of wealth at the expense of the gospel, or taking advantage of others in an effort to increase our own gains, however, is clearly inconsistent with the message found in scripture.
How should we respond to those who claim “God wants you to be rich!”? The Bible makes it plain: withdraw. Flee. Get away quickly. Not much room for debate there. No need to wonder if maybe just this one time….God says run.
Have questions about this or other timely topics? I’d love to hear from you!