The Prosperity Gospel, also known as the “health and wealth gospel” or “word of faith movement,” is one of the most controversial and influential theological movements in modern Christianity. It teaches that God rewards faith with financial success and physical well-being, and that believers can access these blessings through positive confession, generous giving, and unwavering belief.
Origins and Influential Ideas
The Prosperity Gospel has its roots in early 20th-century American religious and philosophical trends, particularly:
- New Thought Movement – A philosophical movement that emphasized the power of the mind, positive thinking, and metaphysical healing. Its influence laid the foundation for ideas that thoughts could directly shape reality.
- Pentecostalism – Emerging in the early 1900s with revivals like Azusa Street, Pentecostalism’s emphasis on spiritual gifts, miracles, and divine healing made it fertile ground for prosperity teachings.
- Healing Evangelists – Figures like Oral Roberts in the 1940s and 50s combined revivalism with claims of divine healing and supernatural blessings, laying the groundwork for broader prosperity preaching.
Key Figures
Several major figures have shaped and spread the Prosperity Gospel:
- Kenneth Hagin – Often considered the “father” of the Word of Faith movement, Hagin taught that Christians have the authority to claim healing and prosperity through their spoken words.
- Oral Roberts – Brought prosperity teachings into the mainstream through radio and television, famously saying “God wants you to prosper.”
- Kenneth Copeland – A disciple of Hagin, Copeland became one of the movement’s most visible and wealthy proponents, emphasizing faith-filled speech and seed giving.
- Benny Hinn, Creflo Dollar, Joyce Meyer, Joel Osteen – Each contributed to expanding the message globally, with variations in tone—from overt promises of wealth to more subtle encouragement toward success and blessing.
How It Fits Within the Charismatic Movement
The Prosperity Gospel is closely tied to Charismatic and Pentecostal Christianity, sharing a belief in the active, miraculous work of the Holy Spirit. However, not all charismatics embrace prosperity teaching. Many leaders within these movements have criticized its theological excesses and materialistic tendencies.
Still, its appeal has grown alongside the global Pentecostal movement, especially in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia, where the message of hope, healing, and abundance resonates deeply.
Evolution Over Time
While the core message remains, the Prosperity Gospel has evolved in style and presentation:
- Earlier iterations emphasized dramatic miracles, seed-faith giving, and direct appeals for donations.
- Modern expressions (e.g., Joel Osteen) often focus more on personal empowerment, positive mindset, and general success, avoiding overt materialism.
- Media Savvy Expansion – From televangelism to Instagram and YouTube, prosperity preachers have adapted to new platforms to grow their influence.
- Global Spread – In countries facing poverty or limited social mobility, the message that faith brings success has gained tremendous popularity.
Criticism and Pushback
The Prosperity Gospel has drawn sharp criticism from across the Christian spectrum:
- Theological critiques argue it misrepresents the gospel, ignores suffering, and distorts Scripture.
- Ethical concerns arise from the wealth amassed by some preachers while followers struggle financially.
- Pastoral damage happens when believers are told their illness or poverty results from a lack of faith.
Groups like The Gospel Coalition and theologians such as John Piper, Costi Hinn (former insider), and Michael Horton have voiced strong opposition.
Where It Stands Today
Despite the criticism, the Prosperity Gospel remains influential. It has become:
- A dominant force in global Pentecostalism, especially in the Global South.
- A mainstay in Christian media, with polished branding and feel-good messages.
- A dividing line in debates over the nature of Christian discipleship, suffering, and wealth.
In a culture of self-help and ambition, its message continues to attract—and challenge—the church.
Closing Thought:
The Prosperity Gospel raises crucial questions for Christians today: What does it mean to be blessed? How should we understand faith, suffering, and God’s provision? Wrestling with these questions is part of the ongoing task of faithful, biblical theology in a modern world.
