The Real Prosperity Gospel

I received this question one day: “I’m a new believer in Christ, and a friend told me that God wants us all to be financially wealthy. Is this what the Bible teaches?”

This view is known as prosperity theology, which says that all Christians who have enough faith will always be prosperous, but that’s just not true.

Just look at some of God’s people in the Bible. Joseph was born into a wealthy family—then was a slave and prisoner for 17 years before God elevated him to prime minister of Egypt. David was anointed king of Israel, and then had to flee for his life for 10 years from King Saul before he became king. The apostle Peter told a lame beggar, “Silver and gold have I not, but in the name of the Lord Jesus, walk.”

Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11, “I have learned the secret of being content whether I am in abundance or want.” And in his life, that is exactly what he experienced.

Our job is to be faithful to handle money God’s way. It’s the Lord’s responsibility to decide how much to entrust to us at any time, whether it is much or little.

To learn more about contentment and other principles of biblical financial stewardship, head over to our website at www.compass1.org.

Warmly in Christ,

Howard