The Riches and Poverty in Africa

RICHES AND POVERTY IN AFRICA
PART SEVEN

The first error of the Prosperity Gospel is that it distorts the true reason for giving. Several more errors follow.

2. THE PROSPERITY GOSPEL DISTORTS THE BIBLICAL VIEW OF TRUE PROSPERITY

Unfortunately, the preachers of the Prosperity Gospel have bought into the marterialistic philosophy of this age, the belief that material prosperity is gain. It is a gospel shaped by the materialism of our contemporary culture. Biblical teaching is clear. “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap…For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil” (I Tim 6:6-10). In contrast to material prosperity, true prosperity in God’s sight is the riches of faith. “…God has chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom…” (James 2:5).

3. THE PROSPERITY GOSPEL VICTIMIZES THE POOR

Since preachers reduce God’s blessings to material gain, anyone who falls into financially hard times must be guilty of sin or unbelief. If God’s will is for everyone to be healthy and wealthy, then anyone who falls sick or remains poor is suffering from his own unbelief or disobedience. This places a terrible burden on the poor for it is unfair and unbiblical.

4. THE PROSPERITY GOSPEL DISTORTS GOD’S PROVIDENTIAL PLAN FOR HIS CHILDREN
Re
Let us be honest. If we had our own choice, most of us would desire perfect health, long life, material prosperity and influential positions in the church and nation. Such desires are natural because our sinful human nature seeks our own personal gain, prominence and sucdess. But God’s plan is for his children to grow in grace. The proud, self centered human nature must be crucified and in God’s providential plan this often entails trials of many kinds. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (Jam 1:2-4).