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Was Jesus rich?
Swanky messiah not far-fetched in Prosperity Gospel
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 10/22/06
DEL.ICIO.USSwanky messiah not far-fetched in Prosperity Gospel
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 10/22/06
Christians gather around the world each Christmas to sing about "poor baby Jesus" asleep in the manger with no crib for his bed.
But the Rev. Creflo Dollar looks inside that manger, and he doesn't see a poor baby at all.
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He sees a baby born into wealth because the kings visiting him gave him gold, frankincense and myrrh. He sees a messiah with so much money that he needed an accountant to track it. He sees a savior who wore clothes so expensive that the Roman soldiers who crucified him gambled for them.
Dollar sees a rich Jesus.
"He was rich, he was whole, and I use those words interchangeably," says Dollar, senior pastor of World Changers Church International, a 23,000-member College Park church, which broadcasts its services on six continents.
Dollar is part of a growing number of preachers who say that the traditional image of Jesus as a poor, itinerant preacher who "had no place to lay his head" is wrong.
"Did Jesus have money? Well, the Bible was clear. Kings brought him gold," Dollar says. "Did Jesus have money? It's clear. He had a treasurer to keep up with it."
Yet many academic scholars say pastors like Dollar are inventing a rich Jesus for selfish reasons.
"You're giving people divine sanctification to be greedy," says Sondra Ely Wheeler, an ethicist at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. "You tell them what they want to hear: The reason you have a Mercedes is because God loves you."
People have argued over their perception of Jesus for centuries. They've debated his politics, his race and more recently, his relationship with Mary Magdalene.
The new battleground: his economic status, because of the popularity of pastors like Dollar.
Dollar preaches the Prosperity Gospel, where the basic tenet is God rewards the faithful with wealth, spiritual power and debt-free living. And he is joined by a host of other nationally known preachers:
• Bishop T.D. Jakes, one of the most popular televangelist in the United States, a best-selling author and star of MegaFest, one of the largest annual revivals in the country.
• Televangelist Oral Roberts, founder of Oral Roberts University.
• And Atlanta's own Bishop Eddie Long, pastor of the city's largest church, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, 25,000 strong.
Their teaching, once seen as a fringe theology championed by flamboyant characters like "Rev. Ike," a prosperity televangelist with a pompadour who once boasted during his heyday in the 1970s that his "garages runneth over," has now moved mainstream. In the 1970s and 1980s, the flamboyant Rev. Ike made millions by promising wealth to those who followed his unabashed emphasis on materialism.
Millions of people across the world watch prosperity preachers' broadcasts and attend their crusades.
But preaching the Prosperity Gospel presents a snag in logic to its proponents: If God wants people to be prosperous, why was Jesus poor?
Well, he wasn't, say many prosperity pastors. And although their claims appear to contradict 2,000 years of traditional Christianity, they say they can prove it through Scripture and history. They also invoke common sense: Jakes reportedly told a Dallas Observer reporter that Jesus had to be rich in order to support his disciples for three years.
'Supernatural provision'
Those who preach against a poor Jesus say they aren't trying to justify personal greed. Prosperity preachers like Dollar say their teaching isn't solely centered on money, but extends to other areas such as health and relationships. They say God will provide for the faithful in all areas of their life — just as he did for Jesus.
"When we are following God's will with all of our hearts, if it takes us to a place where we need God's supernatural provision to keep going, he will always provide it," says the Rev. Dennis Rouse of Victory World Church, a 5,000-member church in Gwinnett County.
And when it comes to Jesus, that's evident throughout his life, prosperity preachers say. How, for example, could Jesus have supported his mother when his father died early — unless he had ample money?
"It's historically inaccurate to say that Jesus was poor," says Bishop Johnathan Alvarado, senior pastor of Total Grace Christian Center in Decatur. Alvarado's church has 4,000 members who worship at two locations.
Alvarado also disputes the notion that Jesus was homeless — traditionally believed because of the passage in the ninth chapter of the Gospel of Luke where Jesus tells a would-be follower that he has "no place to lay his head."
But Alvarado says Jesus was speaking metaphorically — the world was not his home. "How many carpenters do you know who haven't built themselves a house?" he says.
And Jesus and his followers lived "sacrificially" by helping the poor and not trusting in their riches, Alvarado said. "Sacrifice is contextual," he says. " I can afford a BMW or a Bentley, but I drive a Nissan. ... It's OK to have stuff so long as stuff doesn't have you."
Dollar doesn't drive a Nissan. He drives a Rolls-Royce.
But he also believes that stories about Jesus being prejudiced against the rich have been misinterpreted. For example, he views the tale of the wealthy young ruler that Jesus confronts in the Gospel of Luke through different eyes.
In that encounter, the Gospels say Jesus told the man that it is "harder for a camel to squeeze through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
Dollar says, however, Jesus wasn't saying wealth was a barrier to being accepted by God.
He says the "eye of the needle" was an ancient passageway entering Jerusalem that was so small that a camel had to drop to its knees to squeeze through. Jesus meant that a man who trusted in his riches would have similar difficulties adjusting to God's way of handling riches, Dollar says.
"This guy had an opportunity to love God with his possessions, but he couldn't do it because his possessions had him," Dollar says.
That same passage also proves that Jesus' disciples "were absolutely not poor," Dollar says. (The Gospels report that the disciples were astonished when Jesus told them about the perils of riches.) "If the disciples were poor, why would they get astonished?" Dollar says. "If they were poor, they should have jumped up and said, 'Whoopee, we're on our way.' "
'A lack of understanding'
However, if Jesus and his disciples weren't poor — because God had blessed them — what does that say about the millions of faithful Christians who live throughout the world in brutal poverty?
Is that due to a failure of their character?
When asked this, Dollar says: "Part of it may be, first of all, a lack of understanding. You cannot do better until you know better. I used to be broke and poor just like all of those other people. I had to first change the way I think."
Rick Hayes, a 14-year member of Dollar's church, agrees.
He says he was "homeless and hopeless" until he attended World Changers. He learned there that Jesus preached to the poor so they wouldn't be poor anymore. Today he is a medical supply salesman.
Hayes says he believes Jesus was rich because some biblical translations suggest Jesus — as a baby — was visited by a caravan of about 200 kings bearing gold, not three wise men. Jesus also needed wealth to pay travel expenses for his 12 disciples as they took the Gospel from city to city.
Hayes, quoting the ninth chapter of Ecclesiastes ("The words of a poor man are soon forgotten"), also says Jesus could not have attracted a devoted following if he was poor.
"Nobody is going to follow a broke man," Hayes says.
'By any means necessary'
Wheeler, the ethicist from Wesley seminary, sighs when she hears the arguments for Jesus being rich. She and other New Testament scholars say these pastors are distorting history and words and have no understanding of the socio-economic conditions of Jesus' time.
Wheeler, author of "Wealth as Peril and Obligation: The New Testament on Possessions" (Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, $20), says most biblical scholars don't even want to dignify the debate with a response.
She says that Dollar's argument that Jesus started off wealthy because of the gold he received at birth is nonsense. Only one out of the four Gospels even mentions the gold he received from a king and that passage never gives the value of the gift.
"The notion that you would go from that to the assertion Jesus is wealthy passes credulity," she says. "You have to want to get there by any means necessary."
She also disputes Dollar's interpretation of Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler. Jesus was being literal when he said it was hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of God.
"What Jesus says is that it is rarer than teeth in chickens to find a person who can own many things and not be owned by them," she says.
Similarly, Obery M. Hendricks Jr., author of "The Politics of Jesus" (Doubleday, $26), scoffs at the contention that Jesus had enough money to support himself and his disciples for three years. Hendricks says the eighth chapter in the Gospel of Luke paints a different picture: Women, using their own meager means, covered the bills for Jesus and his disciples.
"If Jesus was rich, why would he need women to support him?" Hendricks asks.
Eric Meyers, a professor of archaeology at Duke University, says he has never heard a single reputable scholar argue for a rich Jesus.
"It's new to me," he says at the beginning of the conversation. But as he listens to a litany of arguments on why Jesus was rich, he breaks in: "Now you're getting me mad."
Meyers, who personally excavated the village of Nazareth where Jesus lived during a 19-year-period, says there is absolutely no evidence of an "eye of the needle" gate in Jerusalem.
And Meyers, editor of the Oxford Encyclopedia of Archaelogy in the Near East, says simply put, Jesus was poor — like virtually all the people around him.
"He didn't even have his own tomb," Meyers says. "He had to get it from a friend."
But Dollar says his interpretation of Jesus' ministry is just as valid as any scholar. His own prosperity is proof that God wants to bless his followers with financial and spiritual blessings — just as he did for baby Jesus.
"God didn't give the Bible just to theologians and scholars, he gave it to poor people," Dollar says. "He gave it to farmers, sheep-herders — we don't need somebody to help us misunderstand the Bible. If we just read the Book, things will begin to happen, and you'll see."
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Comments
By Ronald Millsaps
October 24, 2006 2:37 PM | Link to this
The Bible speaks clearly against greed, which is exactly what the prosperity “gospel” endorses.
I’d like to remind Mr. Dollar (I heard he had his name changed to promote his “ministry”) that Jesus had something infinitely more important than money: divinity, and therefore didn’t need money to support His disciples.
I hate to say it, but the Church today is very, very far from God. This “purpose-driven” movement is just as evil if not even worse, and you can take THAT to the bank.
By Anthony
October 24, 2006 2:45 PM | Link to this
last question (I think)What if after you studied the Bible some more and found that Jesus was indeed wealthy..what would you do differently? We got baptised like him, we try to love everybody like him, we try to live right like him, well why don’t you want to build wealth like him? Can you be trusted with the it? If you can’t, I got any idea…why don’t you ask God to give you a great idea that will make millions, even billions of dollars; keep out your $20-$40K/yr salary /give the rest away.
By Anthony
October 24, 2006 3:02 PM | Link to this
SINCE MONEY is in the world and it is possible to accummulate a lot of it. I would rather it be in the hands of people being led by the Spirit of God and they be obedient than it be in the hands of anyone else. I also think that Satan tempted (offered) Jesus all the wealth, kingdoms of the world if he would bow down and worhip him because the devil knew what Jesus was use too back in heaven. I know you can’t compare the wealthy of the earth to the wealth of heaven; he offered it anyway!!
By Marie
October 24, 2006 3:20 PM | Link to this
The evidence provided by Dollar and others that Jesus was rich is so flimsy that it is so SILLY to even argue the point. NO ONE can ascertain from scriptures the definite economic status of Jesus and its absolutely irrevelant. I have no problem with any Christian being rich and I certainly do not have disdain for those that are poor. The bible says he would supply our needs according to his riches in glory. If he provides tuna instead of lobster for me to eat — he has kept his word.
By Michael
October 24, 2006 3:29 PM | Link to this
We need to be careful as Christians as we read this. First of all, the article looks bad by reading it, but I am going to give Dollar and the others the benefit of the doubt. Preachers have to be careful of their messages,as sinners and Christians are listening and watching. This morning when I got up I prayed for preachers everywhere because we are taking our eyes off of Jesus. The gospel is simple and I would appreciate it if they left all this other stuff about obtaining so much down here out
By Fred
October 24, 2006 4:18 PM | Link to this
People would you do some homework, the largest and most expensive church in metro Atlanta is not World Changer or New Birth, but a predominately white church. Was that pastor interviewed for this story? No! Does Billy Graham fly commerical or driving a Taurus? AJC’s plan: Attack the black minister,Get blacks to register on AJC.com. Sell their information. They already have the white peoples info. Hispanics are next. Wakeup!!!
By Dave Lee
October 24, 2006 4:25 PM | Link to this
Creflo Dollar is Jim Bakker in blackface. History repeats itself…
By Dave Lee
October 24, 2006 4:27 PM | Link to this
Creflo Dollar is Jim Bakker in blackface. History repeats itself again.
By EM
October 24, 2006 4:39 PM | Link to this
I suggest that you all google a man named “Sweet Daddy Grace”. Sweet Daddy preached and thrived on the same message that these prosperity preachers promote. He amassed a $25 million dollar estate off the tithes and offerings of thousands of poor and down trodden minorities during the 30’s through the 60’s. His method was basically “brain wash them and they will turn over their money to you. But you have to tell them that God wants it because they are poor and desperate.” Google him.Interesting
By Victor T. Stephens
October 24, 2006 4:51 PM | Link to this
Creflo Dollar is mixing lies with some truth. He is preaching a different gospel and a different Jesus. Jesus was not rich. If Jesus was rich, then it must be asked: Why did Jesus have to cause a coin to appear in the mouth of a fish to pay the temple tax (Matt. 17:2427)? Why didn’t Jesus just pay the tax from all the money he had? If Jesus was rich, why did he need to receive support from his followers (Luke 8:1-3)?
By Victor T. Stephens
October 24, 2006 4:58 PM | Link to this
Truth be told, Creflo Dollar is not, by biblical definition, a true teacher of God’s Word; but rather a false teacher. The Bible warns us to be on the watch for many false teachers in these last days … who will cleverly introduce false doctrines. And contrary to the misinterpreted use of “Touch not God’s anointed”, the bible commands us to EXPOSE, CORRECT, REBUKE, and SEPARATE from those who teach false doctrines.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 24, 2006 5:04 PM | Link to this
There is an article that addresses the false teachings of Creflo Dollar as well as many other Word-Faith heretics (Eddie Long, T.D. Jakes, Kenneth Copeland, etc.) located at: www.victorstephens.com/victorstephenswebsite_018.htm
This extensive essay contains many quotations and audio files of the heretical statements made by the Word-Faith camp.
By Mark
October 24, 2006 7:28 PM | Link to this
I don’t know if Jesus was rich, but He and his apostles certainly weren’t poor. Opinions need to be backed up by scripture, not necessarily what we have traditionally been led to believe. Consider the feeding of the 5000 with 5 loaves and 2 fishes as documented in Mark 6: 36-45. Jesus directed the apostles to feed the multitude. They said to Him, “Shall we go and spend two hundred denarii on bread and give them something to eat?” Clearly the apostles had money, but did not want it spent.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 24, 2006 8:45 PM | Link to this
Since two-hundred denarii was equal to eight months pay, Avanzini and other Word-Faith leaders contend that the disciples “offer” to purchase 200 denarii worth of bread was indicative of their great wealth. Close examination of this verse, however, does not prove that the disciples were “mega” rich. In context, the disciples were not offering to purchase this amont of bread, but was actually indicating to Jesus that 200 denarii worth of bread was beyond their means. Since they did not possess the funds to feed 5,000 people, Jesus took five loaves of bread, two fish and induced a miracle that produced more than enough food to feed the multitudes (v 38-43).
By Victor T. Stephens
October 24, 2006 8:47 PM | Link to this
While the Word-Faith teachers are contending that the disciples were rich, Peter is saying:
“Silver and gold I do not have…” (Acts 3:6) Paul, the man who Avanzini claims had enough money to block up justice, says, “To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless…” (1 Cor. 4:11) Paul also says, “But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: ….as poor, yet making many rich (spiritually); as having nothing, and yet possessing all things (spiritual riches).” (2 Cor. 6:4,10) He continues stating, “And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” (1 Timothy 6:8) The author of Hebrews states: “They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented — of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.” (Heb. 11:37) Furthermore, in Luke 22:36, Jesus says to the disciples: “But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one.” If the disciples were rich, they would be able to purchase a sword rather than sell their clothes in order to buy one.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 24, 2006 8:50 PM | Link to this
How anyone can read the above passages, yet contest that the disciples were rich is nothing short of a convenient denial of reality to preserve an agenda. With militant vigilance, Creflo Dollar and other Word-Faith proponents blatantly defy doctrinal purity to shield their program of flock fleecing; confidently aware that the flock will gladly tolerate their false teachings. (2 Cor. 11:4,13-15)
By Mary T
October 25, 2006 12:19 AM | Link to this
I am heartbroken at hearing Bishop Eddie Long is a prosperity preacher… I watch him on TV and I really like his message - he seems sincere,, is he really in the WOF preacher camp??? oh no… i thought he might have been one of the good preachers.
I also like JW Walker… please dont tell me he is a prosperity preacher too.. i really dig him!!!!
By Mary T
October 25, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this
oh no.. please dont tell me Bishop Eddie Long is a WOF prosperity preacher!!! I have been watching him on TV and I thought he was a good teacher.. and right on with the Bible..
Has anyone heard J W Walker? he seems sincere and right on and I enjoy him so much… I will be so disappointed if he is a WOF/prosperity preacher…
I am so sad now… my favorite preachers … we gotta pray for these folks,, as they have large large churches and a huge tv audience..
By Victor T. Stephens
October 25, 2006 1:01 AM | Link to this
Mary,
Yes, Eddie Long is a Word-Faith teacher. You can read and hear some of his unbiblical statements on my website at: www.victorstephens.com/victorstephenswebsite_019.htm. Most, if not all false teachers, give an appearance of being “good”. It is the darkness disguised as light (Wolves in sheep’s clothing). The only way to discern false teachers is to study the Bible in proper context and test (Acts 17:11) what is taught behind the pulpit.
By Norma Dickson
October 25, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
I cannot concur with Reverend Dollar that Jesus was rich in worldly goods. That He was rich is heritage is understandable -that God owns it all is Scriptural. Riches are not condemned in Scripture, but trusting in riches is. If we trust God with all that we have, He will provide for our needs.
The salvation message is universal, but the prosperity doctrine is not. How can you preach that message to third world countries? Jesus said, “Go ye into the world and preach the gospel.”
By Willard W. Mann
October 25, 2006 1:06 PM | Link to this
The Bible states that Jesus was rich spiritually, but not secular (Philippians 2:5-8; II Corinthians 8:9; and many other scriptures)
I agree with the person who said “now you’re getting me mad“ when you tell me that Jesus was rich.
The types of preachers mentioned in the article are preachers who prosper from preaching the Gospel. They use the gospel as a profession to become wealthy.
By Delaine
October 25, 2006 7:13 PM | Link to this
If you don’t want to believe that God blesses according to his promises, go ahead! But then, just what do you think you will be able to do about meeting someone else’s need? What about financing the gospel - just leave that to someone else (perhaps the prosperity preachers)?
By lisa brown
October 25, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this
When I first recieved Jesus as Lord of my life, I would listen to all of those preachers preach the message of prosperity. Let me just say, prosperity is fine. There is nothing wrong with being rich, as long as the riches don’t have you. The Bible says in Luke 12:48 “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required”. God is the God of prosperity. Psalms 50:10 says “For every beast of the forest is mine AND the cattle on a thousand hills”. Everyone is not meant to be rich.
By lisa brown
October 25, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this
…..in continuation to my last comment. Everyone is not ment to be rich, but we are required to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as our savior. We are in the very last days and the Rapture of the church is about to occur(1Thess. 4). Our focus should not be on riches but on the fact that we have GOT to win as many souls to heaven that we can. God will supply our need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19)
By Anthony
October 25, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this
I really don’t know if this question will ever be fully answered and understood in this life time or not; and it may not even matter, but we may have to ask Jesus himself when we all get to heaven ( well the ones that are saved )and then when we see Jesus in all OF HIS GLORY…..”Angels, crowns, Thrones, Mansions; etc. As a matter of fact; when we do see all that (you now what; I have a thought )I’m going to go ahead and start a new entry…cause I’m going to run out of room…sorry
By Anthony
October 25, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this
I’m back….I was saying; Maybe it’s hard to believe Jesus was wealthy, because maybe some people don’t want to believe it. I think unconsciously, they believe to be like Jesus in every area; they would have to become wealthy too. And they really can’t see themselves being wealthy. So to not have to deal with trying to become wealthy…it’s easier to just admit that Jesus was poor. You are the one that has problems with being wealthy.
By Anthony
October 25, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this
Was Jesus POOR? if he was…are you going to sell everything you have and give it to the poor. My guess is most people would not do that. WOULD YOU? if Jesus was poor; don’t you want to be like him in every way. Jesus didn’t have a job either “9to5” and the disciples quit their jobs to follow Jesus. Peter said to Jesus; we have given up all to follow you..what did Jesus say to him. (paraphrase)Whatever you give up for me & the Gospel, I’ll give you more back in this life time.
By notbelieveinchristhiansanymore
October 26, 2006 2:49 AM | Link to this
Thanks Mr.Stephens,millions of souls like myself are suffering today,no church to go anymore,no Pastor to trust or believe,completely alone,no fellowship with any brother or sister in the Lord,all this Pastors of Satan are destroying people faith,looking how they steal and misuse the tithing and offerings to buy big houses,nice cars,expensive clothes and travel first class the World,how I can believe in church,salvation and Jesus anymore when hundreds of TBN preachers are getting millionaries???
By Victor T. Stephens
October 26, 2006 3:38 AM | Link to this
To: notbelieveinchristhiansanymore,
While today’s church is infested with false teachers and false Christians, lets remain encouraged that there are some genuine pastors and brothers/sisters in the Lord. More importantly, our main focus should remain on Christ. No matter how corrupt the world may be and difficult the road we may have to travel, the Lord will guide us through. With Christ, we are overcomers!
By Victor T. Stephens
October 26, 2006 3:48 AM | Link to this
As part of their extortion scheme, Creflo Dollar and other Word-Faith teachers grossly misuse and abuse tithing. Truth be told, while generous giving is encouraged, tithing is NOT a command given by God to Believers today. In addition to the article that addresses the false doctrines of the Word-Faith Movement, I’ve also written an articles (A Closer Look At Tithing) that exposes the errors of church tithing. It can be found at: www.victorstephens.com/victorstephenswebsite_014.htm
By rachel
October 26, 2006 9:01 AM | Link to this
Total Grace Christian Center: Bishop Johnathan & Toni Alvarado, We are given a gospel of truth and balance and encouraged to research biblical history for a more comprehensive teaching. The African-American community is deeply entrenched in consumerism & status quo living. The”faith & prosperity movement” is able to “fleece the sheep” with the same marketing tools that have kept our communities in poverty. Our church values promote education, hard work and meeting holistic needs.
By rachel
October 26, 2006 9:03 AM | Link to this
Total Grace Christian Center: Bishop Johnathan & Toni Alvarado, We are given a gospel of truth and balance and encouraged to research biblical history for a more comprehensive teaching. The African-American community is deeply entrenched in consumerism & status quo living. The”faith & prosperity movement” is able to “fleece the sheep” with the same marketing tools that have kept our communities in poverty. Our church values promote education, hard work and meeting holistic needs.
By rachel
October 26, 2006 9:03 AM | Link to this
Total Grace Christian Center: Bishop Johnathan & Toni Alvarado, We are given a gospel of truth and balance and encouraged to research biblical history for a more comprehensive teaching. The African-American community is deeply entrenched in consumerism & status quo living. The”faith & prosperity movement” is able to “fleece the sheep” with the same marketing tools that have kept our communities in poverty. Our church values promote education, hard work and meeting holistic needs.
By rachel
October 26, 2006 9:10 AM | Link to this
Total Grace Christian Center, Bishop Johnathan & Toni Alvarado pastor with teachings of balance and the gospel of truth! We are encouraged to research historical background for a more comprehensive look into the Bible. Our church values and promotes education, taking personal fiscal responsibility and meeting the needs of the less fortunate at home and abroad! The “consumer” mentality has consumed our communities as we unwittingly play into the gospel of “giving our way” to physical abundance!
By STEVE
October 26, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this
After careful review of the article and crossreferencing scripture it is appearent that the writer is not familiar with scripture. In the Gospels it tells of the house Jesus had, it also talks of temple taxs paid, accountants ( Judas as keeper of the purse) and other areas such as Malachi which talk of tithing and blessing. It was the lie of Constantine and the Romans which taught and drove the Church into the dark ages along with teaching poverty as a blessing.
By Rev. Gene Adcox
October 26, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this
A careful study of Acts 3will let us know the truth about silver and gold
Freedom Assembly of God Greenville, SC
Pastor Gene Adcox
By Rev. Gene Adcox
October 26, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this
A careful study of Acts 3will let us know the truth about silver and gold
Freedom Assembly of God Greenville, SC
Pastor Gene Adcox
By Victor T. Stephens
October 26, 2006 3:30 PM | Link to this
Steve,
Where in the Bible does it state that Jesus had a big expensive house as alleged by prosperity teachers? The temple tax was not a tithe, but a half-shekel coin equal to two days pay that was paid yearly by every Jewish male ages 20 to 50. And if you read the entire passage, Jesus indicates that God’s children are exempt from paying any kind of temple tax. The only reason Jesus paid the tax was not to offend the religious leaders of His day.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 26, 2006 3:37 PM | Link to this
Steve,
In addition, why did Jesus have to cause a coin to appear in the mouth of a fish to pay the temple tax for Himself and Peter? Why didn’t Jesus just pay the tax from all the money He had? Tithing in Malachi has nothing to do with Believers today. The prophet, Malachi, was speaking to the nation of Israel (who were under the Mosaic Law), not the Gentile Christian Church.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 26, 2006 3:50 PM | Link to this
Steve,
And contrary to popular teaching, tithing was not commanded prior to the Mosaic Law, but was practiced as a man-made custom to pay tribute to pagan gods and kings. The Hebrews adopted this custom to show appreciation to the one true God. Tithing became law (for the Israelites) due to Jacob’s vow. And bear in mind, that vowing is VOLUNTARY. Tithes were not paid by the Early Church. Tithing was inappropriately introduced by the Catholic Church.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 26, 2006 4:00 PM | Link to this
Steve,
If Jesus was rich, why did He need to receive support from His followers (Luke 8:1-3)? And notice, Jesus’ followers supported Him according to their means, not by tithing.
By Ervin Smith
October 26, 2006 5:14 PM | Link to this
It is no surprise to me that people read the bible and interpret it to fit there place in the journey of life. That is nearly always the case; preacher or not.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 26, 2006 5:57 PM | Link to this
Mr. Smith,
I agree. Many people (including numerous pastors) interpret the Bible to fit their agenda and/or preceived notions. Proper Biblical exegesis involves studying the scriptures with an unbiased viewpoint; understanding scriptures in their proper context by examing surrounding passages and other relevant text, the meaning of certain words in light of the passage, periods of time (dispensations), whom the author is speaking to, and differentiating laws and customs.
By Pastor Lydia Hall
October 26, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this
If You aren’t preaching the cross message…which by the way wans’t a rich way to die….hmmmmmmmmmm you are not preaching the TRUE gospel!!! Everything we need was provided at the cross…It’s not about us and how rich we can get but it’s all about HIm and winning lost souls to Christ. When we seek Him First the benefits come to bring Him glory not us.!!! Pastor Lydia
By Evelyn
October 27, 2006 8:32 AM | Link to this
1 Timothy 6:17-19 “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who give us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold of eternal life” This is what prosperity preachers obey as well as live in bearing their flock’s eternal rewards in mind - as they themselves have not need
By Evelyn
October 27, 2006 8:37 AM | Link to this
If I were alive in Jesus’ days I would have loved an opportunity to sow into His ministry by providing for Him. Living in today’s times I can - so I tithe and make offerings into the kingdom for the gospel to reach others where I can’t go - if it blesses the under-shephard we have in our pastor then praise Jesus all the more for the man’s labor in pure doctrine, which includes my prosperity in all dimensions in life, bringing praise to the glory of the grace of El Shaddai! Amen & Haleluja
By Victor T. Stephens
October 27, 2006 10:50 AM | Link to this
If we read and study the Bible in proper context, it will be discovered that some of God’s people were rich in material possessions while others were poor. Therefore, neither wealth nor poverty can be offered as an absolute prescriptive for godliness. From God’s perspective, a more balanced interpretation and definition of true wealth is a “state of godliness plus contentment.”
1 Tim. 6:6 — “Now godliness with contentment is great gain.”
When Paul counsels Timothy (1Tim. 6:17) he states that God will “give us richly all things to enjoy.” By this he means that God will provide all the basic living needs pertaining to life. This is reflected in 1 Tim. 6:8 when Paul says, “And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.”
Matthew 6:31 states, “Therefore do not worry, saying ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.”
True prosperity is not a condition of possessing an abundance of material things, but is acquired from living a godly life and being content with what you have.
God does not condemn wealth if it obtained by honest means. Those who possess more are required to give more. It is, however, unbiblical to get rich (profiting) from teaching the gospel and/or teach that godliness is a guarantee to financial gain as alleged by Creflo Dollar and other Word-Faith heretics.
1 Tim. 6:5 ” … useless wranglings of men of CORRUPT MINDS and DESTITUTE of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a MEANS OF GAIN.” From such withdraw yourself.”
Notice that the above verse states that those who teach that godliness leads to material wealth are corrupt and destitute of the truth; and that we should remove ourselves from their teachings. The only reason that Creflo Dollar is rich is due to his clever ability to deceive and fleece his followers.
On tithing … again God never gave a command for Christians to tithe. Jesus’ ministry was not supported by tithes (Luke 8:1-3) and the Early Church never taught tithes.
“It is admitted universally that the payment of tithes, or the tenth of possessions, for sacred purposes did not find a place within the Christian Church during the age covered by the apostles and their immediate successors.” (Dr. James Hastings, Dictionary of the NT: The Apostolic Church, vol. 4, p. 594)
“Centuries later some tried to reinstitute a tithe for the church, but ‘leaders in the church (like Irenacus and Epiphanius) showed the arguments’ of these who sought to bind the tithe upon their brethren ‘were not valid. Rather, freedom in Christian giving was emphasized.’ ” (The Zondervan Pictorical Encyclopedia of the Bible, vol. 5, p. 758)
“It (tithing) was not practiced in the early Christian church, but gradually became common by the 6th century.” (Encyclopedia Americana, p.6, 259)
Tithing was inappropriately introduced by the Catholic Church.
“As the Church expanded and various institutions arose, it became necessary to make laws which would insure the proper and permanent support of the clergy. The payment of tithes was adopted from the Old Law…—-The Catholic Encyclopedia
“No law of tithing is found in the New Testament, although the principle of church support is laid down in Matt. 10:10 (see also Luke 10:7) and echoed in 1 Corinthians 9:13-14.” —-Roman Catholic Encyclopedia
By JP
October 27, 2006 1:01 PM | Link to this
Seek the kindom(Spritual)of God “FIRST” and all these things(Earthly) will be added unto Thee. Do not put your heart in riches(Earthly) that will pass away(Temporal) but store your treasures in Heaven(Spritual)which will last forever. Which investment did Jesus make? Remember he died so we can have everlasting life(Spritual Entertal Investment:)). It dosen’t matter what he had on earth. If he stored his treasures up in heaven than that means he rose from the dead(natural death)to enjoy them.
By lwyrgrl
October 27, 2006 4:30 PM | Link to this
I have a suggestion for all persons reading this article. Please go to II Timothy 4:3-4 and remember watch as well as pray!
By Harrison
October 27, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this
It is written: If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. ITim. 6:3-5
By Thomas Dickensheets
October 28, 2006 3:27 AM | Link to this
First of all lets see what Jesus saids.
Matthew 6:24
Matthew 13:22
Matthew 19:21
Matthew 19:23
Mark 10:21-26
Luke 6:24
Luke 9:3
Luke 12:16-21
Luke 14:12-14
By Hal
October 28, 2006 4:06 PM | Link to this
Open your hearts and minds to the Word. Jesus met all our needs at the cross. Not all will accept or believe so not all will receive. CHRIST BECAME POOR THAT WE MIGHT BE RICH. HE BECAME SIN THAT WE MIGHT BE THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD. HE BECAME SICK AND MAMED THAT WE MIGHT BE HEALED. HE SUFFERED ANGUISH THAT WE MIGHT HAVE HIS PEACE. God gives the power to gain wealth that his covenant may be established on the earth. Seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you
By Jesus Is LORD
October 28, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this
The apostle Peter told the lame man begging for alms, “Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have, I give you. In the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” Does Peter’s lack of silver and gold mean that he wasn’t up to the spiritual calibre of today’s ‘prosperity teachers’?
The apostle Paul worked at making tents to provide for those who traveled and ministered with him. Does it mean Paul was somehow inferior to Dollar, Meyers, Copeland, et al, who ‘fleece sheep’?
By Jesus Is LORD
October 28, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this
We are to seek the Kingdom of God so we know what we are to manifest on the earth. We do not seek His kingdom to get the ‘things’. They will come naturally with the Kingdom and WITHOUT the need for this world’s money. If trusting in the Father is good enough for Jesus and Paul and Peter and John and the rest of our first century examples, it is good enough for us. To boast in worldly wealth when most of the souls of earth suffer lack is carnal and shameful. To guilt the poor is despicable.
By Found a pearl
October 29, 2006 1:00 PM | Link to this
If people would push aside their hate and jealousy, and actually read the Bible, they might just realize that this whole subject on “Was Jesus rich?” is a waste of time. This debate proves that no one knows the truth.
The truth is, Jesus is a King, and kings do not need wealth for themselves. Kings use their wealth so that their kingdom (territory) can look perfect, and Jesus made it clear that his Kingdom was not of this earth, so congratulations on debating a vain subject.
By Mary T
October 30, 2006 7:43 AM | Link to this
Ok, when some of these preachers are on TV, I do not hear anything wrong in their message, like Bishop Eddie Long. Yesterday, purposefully scrutinizing what he had to say, I didn’t hear him teaching a prosperity message & what he said was reasonable and according to the Bible. If I keep things in perspective according to the Word and dont fall for any prosperity message (on any preacher), I dont feel there’s a danger listening to him on tv and I dont send any money anyway. What do ya’ll think
By Mary T
October 30, 2006 7:44 AM | Link to this
Ok, when some of these preachers are on TV, I do not hear anything wrong in their message, like Bishop Eddie Long. Yesterday, purposefully scrutinizing what he had to say, I didn’t hear him teaching a prosperity message & what he said was reasonable and according to the Bible. If I keep things in perspective according to the Word and dont fall for any prosperity message (on any preacher), I dont feel there’s a danger listening to him on tv and I dont send any money anyway. What do ya’ll think
By Mary T
October 30, 2006 7:46 AM | Link to this
sorry for posting twice,,, i didn’t think it went thru.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 31, 2006 9:23 PM | Link to this
Word-Faith teachers like Eddie Long, Creflo Dollar, Kenneth Copeland, T.D. Jakes and many others are not true preachers of God’s Word; but rather false teachers … ministers of darkness disquised as Angels of Light. Their false teachings are cleverly cloaked with much truth. And one needs to be skilled in proper biblical exegesis in order to discern their falsehoods. Once exposed, Christians are commanded to separate from them. God will judge those who purposely follow false teachers.
By Victor T. Stephens
October 31, 2006 9:28 PM | Link to this
The Word of God clearly states that there will be many false teachers in today’s church age. When speaking of false teachers, may Believers tend to contemplate on those outside the church. However, it is those inside the church that are not so obvious to doctrinal transgressions.
One of the most dangerous movements to invade the modern Christian Church is know as “The Word-Faith Movement.” In order to justify their extravagant lifestyles, this heretical camp is attempting to persuade us that Jesus and His disciples were rich; that poverty and sickness is sin, and that faith is a creative force.
The following false teachers include, but is not limited to: Creflo Dollar, Eddie Long, Kenneth Copeland, T.D. Jakes, Fred Price, John Hagee, Jesse Duplantis, Jerry Savelle, Charles Capps, Benny Hinn, Joel Osteen, R.W. Schambach, Robert Tilton, John Avanzini, Marilyn Hickey, Juanita Bynum, Rod Parsley, Joyce Meyer, Rarl Paulk, Paul Crouch, Leroy Thompson, Paula White, Pat Robinson and Myles Munroe.
I’ve written a very comprehensive article (“The Word-Faith Movement: Wolves In Sheep’s Clothing) that addresses the heretical teachings of the individuals above. It can be viewed by clicking on the link below.
www.victorstephens.com/victorstephenswebsite_018.htm
By Mary T
October 31, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this
if you go to the “Let us Reason Together” website, your eyes will bug out at the excellent information they give, they talk about things I never even heard of. the latest doctrine to come into nowadays is the “DOMINIONISM” and “NEW APOSTOLIC REFORMATION” which seems to be creeping in to modern churches.. It SOUNDS right,,, actually do a Google search with those words and you will learn this new thing.. Its very tricky and subtle.
By Victor T. Stephens
November 1, 2006 1:21 AM | Link to this
Mary T,
Yes, I’m very familiar with “Let Us Reason”. They are one among other excellent apologetic resources that exposes many falsehoods and heresies that are occuring in the “church” today.
By T Cook
November 2, 2006 1:28 AM | Link to this
Ezekiel 34:2-4, Son of man prophesy against the shepherds of Isreal, prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Isreal that do feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye eat the fat and ye clothe you with wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock. The diseased have ye not stengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have you bound up that which was broken,
By T Cook
November 2, 2006 1:34 AM | Link to this
that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and cruelty have ye ruled them. The prosperity message is not presented properly. Acts 4:34-35 Believers that had great wealth sold their possessions and gave the money to the apostles, the apostles took the money and gave it to those that had need so that everyones needs were met. They did not use the money to live a life of great matrial substance. Wealthy christians today should also use their wealth to
By T Cook
November 2, 2006 1:41 AM | Link to this
assist their brothers and sisters in Christ. To whom much is given, much is required. Tithing is not for the Church Age, giving out of a pure heart is for the Church Age. The money given to the Church leadership today is being misused. In the old testament when the children of Isreal gathered manna, he who gathered much did not have above what he needed and he who gathered a little did not lack. All had what they needed. That is the example for today. Those who have alot give to those that need.
By D Nugent
November 2, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this
The Lord Jesus told us to love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world the love of the Father is not in him. Creflo Dollar actually taught panthism in one of his sermons to his church. He had all his people saying they were just like God. He said they were like God because they had the indwelling Holy Spirit. This of course is blasphemy!
By Art
November 5, 2006 9:59 AM | Link to this
It’s called Americanity, not Christianity. It’s the theology of capitalism with a Christian stamp.
It’s the same thing the church of old did. These megachurches are on their way to becoming the largest landowners and are slowly creeping into government. Once this “church” is in bed with the government at the highest levels we will truly have the new American Empire.
Be afraid.
Follow Jesus, not the teachings of men.
By Mary T
November 10, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this
Hey - When you realize how many THOUSANDS of people attend these prosperity church meetings/services & for such a long time, I ask the people: Are you rich yet? If the prosperity thing works, why are there so many poor people and people struggling and not being rich now? Why are you usually just hoping for blessings? Why have’t more blessing come? Heck, if you’ve been hearing it all this time, your life oughta have produced fruit eh? Hmmm how come the preacher is the only one reaping???
By tee
November 14, 2006 10:48 AM | Link to this
The Lord our God tells us we’re suppose to live, do, and be in Excellence. Doesn’t the bible say this? I’m not mad at anyone who reaps prosperity, because they’re usually ones who follow, obey, and are do-ers of the Word. Am I rich, yes in health and family. If I’m suppose to have more, then by His riches and glory I will, especially if I continue to live my life through Him. Yes, beware of false prophets, but as like many here, I believe this is just another way of attacking us believers! Amen
By Kevin
November 16, 2006 5:11 PM | Link to this
Joseph may have been a poor carpenter but Mary’s mother and father, Joachin had much money. Joachim is described as a rich and pious man who regularly gives to the poor and to the temple. So if Jesus was rich he inherited it from his grandfather.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joachim
By Victor T. Stephens
November 18, 2006 8:27 AM | Link to this
Tee,
Creflo Dollar is not wealthy due to God’s blessings, but on account he is engaging in scripture twisting tactics and fleecing the flock.
Yes, beware of false prophets and teachers. And Creflo Dollar fits in this category. I’ve written a very detailed article (“The Word-Faith Movement: Wolves In Sheep’s Clothing)addressing the false teachings of Creflo Dollar and many other Word-Faith teachers. It can be read at the following url: http://www.victorstephens.com/victorstephenswebsite_018.htm
By Victor T. Stephens
November 18, 2006 8:32 AM | Link to this
Jesus and His disciples were not rich. The proof is contained in my article. http://www.victorstephens.com/victorstephenswebsite_018.htm
By Mary T
November 20, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this
Victor, I was at your website.. It made me sick to read all these things these fakers say especially the threats.And then some folks wrote in to criticize you and stick up for the bad preachers.. its a shame. some people will go down to the pit of hell all the while saying “yes but I believed that preacher was real”. And those false preachers .. rather wolves in sheeps clothing will say to Jesus “I have cast out devils in your name, etc.” and Jesus will say “depart from Me, I never knew you”
By Victor T. Stephens
November 21, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this
Mary T
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, it is incredible how Word-Faith teachers can make such blasphemous statements, and yet people will still support and defend them. However, this comes as no surprise. God’s Word clearly states that many people will purposely follow false teachers; which is nothing more than idolatry. Then we have some politically correct “Christians” who simply label them (false teachers) as flawed “brothers”. Truth be told, real men of God don’t purposely teach falsehood.
By Avon
December 30, 2006 9:42 PM | Link to this
Heaven is described as a place with streets composed of the substance which has become the most universal symbol of wealth on the planet. Maybe this is purely metaphorical but, even if it is, it’s one whopping metaphor for how God/Jesus would have perceived earthly wealth. If you visited a place where dried manure was used as money, how much of that would you save to take back home? If gold is like asphalt to you…you do the math. Jesus was rich - too rich to be overly concerned with our money.
By Don
January 9, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
The Evangelical Community is for the most part notorious for prooftexting, having a few pet verses from which they build in this case an enormous and burdensome doctrine which ensnares the poor and rich alike. When you study the scriptures on the subject of the financial status of Jesus in particular, the Bible paints an entirely different picture: Jesus was not rich. 3 or 4 “rich” verses and dozens of “poor” verses. explanation
By Ken
January 21, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
By COOL BOB
February 2, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this
Was Jesus rich or poor? Not sure. Does he want us to be properous now? Definitely.
Galatians 3:29 - If ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.
What promise?
Deuteronomy 28:2 - And all these blessings shall come upon thee and overtake thee, if thou shalt harken unto the voice of the Lord the God.
Psalm 112:1 - …blessed is the man that feareth the Lord and delighteth greatly in his commandments.
By shane
March 18, 2007 1:56 AM | Link to this
After reading most of the comments and the article I am really not sure if Jesus was materially wealthy or not. Its probably more important to explore what Jesus said than trying to determine his earthly wealth.Does he give abilities to people to aquire wealth in order to give towards his kingdom? You would have to say yes.It would be a very dissappointing moment during your final judgement if God gave you this ability and you didn’t use it towards spreading his word on earth.
By jerry Marino
March 21, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this
1 Timothy 6:3-10:
3If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.
By jerry Marino
March 21, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this
as for tithing here’s what the Lord says: matthew 23
23”Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. 24You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.
By paul
May 10, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this
I know a renowned Internet Evangelist, named Dr. Chris Mentillo. He is extremely rich. He has 12 Porsches, 4 mansions goes on 12 extravagant trips a year. Has 10 Rolex watches, and the list goes on and on. But he is a real living man of God, because he gives away his gifts to other’s that sow into his company. And believe me if you sow a $10,000 seed you will get back $20,000 in your mail box.
I believe in the prosperity gospel because of this man alone. I’ve seen him help so many out!
By Dee
May 14, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
Now we not only have Dr. Chris Mentillo as “Celebrity Evangelist.” But Tom Cruise (Celebrity Evangelist) is teaming up with Dr. Chris Mentillo. Did you know that both Tom Cruise and Chris Mentillo are both from around the same city in New York. But I think Dr. Chris Mentillo was born in Auburn NY. That is the next city over from were Tom Cruise was born in Syracuse New York. Most be something in the air about New York when it comes to celebrities and evangelists. I do hear some very great things about Dr. Chris Mentillo. He is supposed to be a great guy, until you double cross him.
By dot
May 14, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
Now we not only have Dr. Chris Mentillo as “Celebrity Evangelist.” But Tom Cruise (Celebrity Evangelist) is teaming up with Dr. Chris Mentillo. Did you know that both Tom Cruise and Chris Mentillo are both from around the same city in New York. But I think Dr. Chris Mentillo was born in Auburn NY. That is the next city over from were Tom Cruise was born in Syracuse New York. Most be something in the air about New York when it comes to celebrities and evangelists. I do hear some very great things about Dr. Chris Mentillo. He is supposed to be a great guy, until you double cross him.
By ryanbelk
June 17, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this
The fact that 800 million people will not eat today is the problem. the fact that almost 30,000 will die today from a lack of clean water. anyone who believes that driving expensive cars and living in huge houses is okay when their is a dying and suffering world out their is dead wrong. as believers we need to love our neighbor and hoarding up things on earth where moth and rust will destroy is not Glorifying to God. how can the ove 2,000 people groups ever here of Christ when everyone is
By Nick
July 19, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
What this is saying is that Jesus was a man with enough money to live a comfortable life in a comfortable house with servants and whatnot. All this says to me is that Jesus, who had the finances to live in a comfortable house and live a relaxed nice life, left it all to serve men and teach them the way to the Father. Jesus also told people to sell everything and follow God, and if a teacher does not do what he teaches, what value does it have?
By alberto rendon
December 22, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this
I believe Jesus was RICH. His parents had more money to pay for a room in the inn but because no vacant room Jesus was born in a manger. He received the precious gifts, He has a treasurer, he has the resouces-the women who supported Him; a poor man has no enough resouces. He has no place to lay his head because he was traveling for the ministry. Jesus never condemned the rich people because they are rich, only those who trusted on riches.
By alberto rendon
December 22, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this
Jesus was rich but cannot be compared to the first class rich people of today, He was rich in his time. The classification of his being rich is not at the first level/class. If not middle class third class as what we classified about rich people.
By djrmb
January 21, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Felicia, poor in spirit is not being poor naturally. And you mentioned the mark of the beast… That is exactly why GOD has inspired his preachers (the men of GOD that bring revelation knowledge and preach the word of GOD, Not the bible scholors which half of are athiest looking to make a case against christians)to teach on this subject. This teaching is as a second arc of sorts. If you do not know GOD as your provider and supplier of all you need and want then you will take the mark.
By djrmb
January 21, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Felicia, poor in spirit is not being poor naturally. And you mentioned the mark of the beast… That is exactly why GOD has inspired his preachers (the men of GOD that bring revelation knowledge and preach the word of GOD, Not the bible scholors which half of are athiest looking to make a case against christians)to teach on this subject. This teaching is as a second arc of sorts. If you do not know GOD as your provider and supplier of all you need and want then you will take the mark.
By djrmb
January 21, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
That is exactly why there is such a huge fight against the message of prosperity. Satan hates it, he wants his mark to be effective in destroying as many christians as possible. If you do not know GOD as your provider and know that “GOD takes joy in the PROSPERITY of his servant” Psalms 35:27 then you will take the mark. Think about it, if this teaching was leading christians a stray then would satan want that??? But instead he fights against it. Bringing persicution. Thats just common sense
By John
January 25, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this
These preachers are all about money, they have gone as so far as training others to carry this message. Beware of one by the name of Bryan Holiday. He is a Pastor who even closed his church to work for Dr. Leroy Thompson so he could learn how to get more money. Sad to say he could have been a good preacher!
By Mark
March 28, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Look at the big picture. God ALWAYS propered and provided for His people when they were obedient to Him. Was Jesus Obedient? Jesus said concerning natural needs “But seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you.” Did Jesus seek first the Kingdom? Did what He preach apply to Him as well as us? The problem with most theologins and scholars is that they simply don’t take the Bible literally.
By Millie
April 3, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
Jesus chose to be who he was.If he had been rich with money,etc. as some teach, rich according to the worlds standard. Then no need for the miracle of feeding the multitude. He did not trust in riches of this world but to bring forth food he trusted in the supernatural. There is coming a day that we better know this dramatic God of multiplication. He is a dramatic God, he walked water,caused the blind to see,raised the dead and drowned hogs, beat money changers out Gods house.My bowl he fills
By alberto rendon
June 15, 2008 4:57 AM | Link to this
Jesus in his time was rich but not millionare or billionare, you do not need million to be considered rich. A poor man has no money and maybe has debt, Jesus has no debt. Jesus had money to buy foods for his disciples, but was not enough to buy foods for 5,000 people because he is millinare.
By alberto rendon
June 15, 2008 5:06 AM | Link to this
Jesus in his time was rich but not a millionare or a billionare, you do not need million to be considered rich. A poor man has no money and maybe has debt, Jesus has no debt. Jesus had money to buy foods for his disciples, but was not enough to buy foods for 5,000 people because he is not a millionare.
By Angel
June 27, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Proverbs 8:18 Riches and honor are with me, Enduring riches and rightousness. 19 My fruit is better than gold, and my revenue than choice silver. 20 I traverse in the way of rightousness. In the midst of the path of justice. 21 THAT I MAY CAUSE THOSE WHO LOVE ME TO INHERIT WEALTH. THAT I MAY FILL THEIR TREASURIES
By Angel
June 27, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
God does not have a problem with blessing His children with wealth. It is trusting in the wealth, or being greedy with money, or placing the money above Him that is the problem. We are to use the money God blesses us with for His purposes. Of course God wants you to be blessed. Abraham was rich, Lot was also, Issac, Jacob, King Solomon. I know there were more, its God who gives the increase. Job was rich, then poor, than restored to double of what he had lost.
By Angel
June 27, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
Malachi 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed me!…. 3:10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse that there may be food in My house. “And try me now in this”, says the Lord of hosts. “If I will ot open for you the windows of heaven and pour you out a blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it”. vs12 “And all nations will call you blessed, for you will be a delightful land.”
By Angel
June 28, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
So obviously God does not want you to be poor. How can you feed and clothe the poor if you are poor? How can we finance the kingdom if all the christians are poor.