Joel Osteen, the pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, lives a lifestyle that many would describe as opulent. His residence is a 17,000-square-foot mansion in the upscale River Oaks neighborhood, valued at $10.5 million, complete with luxury amenities like multiple elevators, fireplaces, and an expansive pool area. Osteen’s net worth is estimated to range from $40 to $100 million, a fortune accrued primarily through book sales rather than a direct salary from the church, which he claims not to take.
When questioned about his wealth, Osteen has defended it by emphasizing that he does not ask for money on television and that his lifestyle is a result of God’s blessings. He has argued that being a “big giver” aligns with his teachings on generosity, suggesting that his wealth is not just for personal enjoyment but also for contributing to charitable causes. In interviews, like one with Oprah Winfrey, he’s portrayed his success as a reflection of living what he preaches – that God wants His followers to be prosperous and happy.
However, this lifestyle and its defense have sparked considerable debate regarding its alignment with Biblical teachings:
The Camel and the Needle: One of the most cited Biblical critiques comes from Matthew 19:24, where Jesus states, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Critics argue that Osteen’s wealth, especially when juxtaposed with his teaching on prosperity, seems at odds with this teaching, suggesting an easier path to heaven through wealth rather than through humility and sacrifice.
Stewardship vs. Accumulation: The Bible frequently speaks on stewardship, encouraging believers to use their resources to serve others. Osteen’s accumulation of wealth, including high-end properties and luxury items, raises questions about how this aligns with the call to be good stewards or to live modestly as some interpretations of scripture suggest.
The Love of Money: 1 Timothy 6:10 warns against the love of money being the root of all kinds of evil. While Osteen might not claim to love money, his lifestyle and the prosperity gospel he preaches, which seems to equate faith with material success, can be perceived as promoting an unhealthy focus on wealth.
Hypocrisy and Public Perception: After events like Hurricane Harvey, where Lakewood Church initially hesitated to open its doors as a shelter, Osteen’s wealth and the church’s actions have been scrutinized. Critics argue this reflects a disconnect between living out the Biblical call to serve the least of these and the image of wealth accumulation, especially when it’s perceived that personal comfort is prioritized over communal need.
In sum, while Osteen defends his wealth as part of God’s blessing and a testament to his own generosity, critics point to these apparent conflicts with Biblical injunctions on humility, the dangers of wealth, and the priority of service over personal gain, questioning the sincerity and alignment of his teaching with traditional Christian values.
Is the “Smiling Preacher” a mass hysteria pooh-bah?
The “theory of mass movements,” notably explored by Eric Hoffer in his book “The True Believer,” offers a lens through which to understand phenomena like mass hysteria. Hoffer suggests that these movements gain traction when individuals, disillusioned and feeling their lives are irreparably tainted, yearn for a sense of belonging and purpose. They find this by merging their identity with a larger collective, often united by a shared disdain for a common foe. Here, the motivation isn’t personal advancement but rather the renunciation of one’s self for the sake of a grander cause.
This theory dovetails with historical and contemporary instances of mass hysteria, where collective behaviors transcend rational or traditional interpretations of religious or social practices.
To argue that Joel Osteen and Lakewood Church represent a modern form of “mass hysteria” movement, we must delve into several key aspects of their operation, influence, and the societal reactions they provoke. Here’s a comprehensive case:
1. Definition of Mass Hysteria:
Mass hysteria, a phenomenon where collective emotion or belief leads to irrational actions, has found new expressions in modern religious contexts, often driven by charismatic leadership and amplified by media and digital platforms:
Bethel Church (Redding, California): Known for its charismatic worship services, Bethel Church has been at the center of controversy with practices like the “glory cloud,” where attendees claimed to see a supernatural manifestation during services. The church also promotes the idea of “soaking prayer,” where participants lie down or sit to “soak” in God’s presence, sometimes leading to emotional or physical responses that could be seen as hysteria. Their worship style, with intense music, lights, and emotional appeals, can sometimes blur the line between spiritual experience and collective emotional response.
Hillsong Church: With a global reach, Hillsong’s services are renowned for their concert-like atmosphere, complete with rock bands, dynamic lighting, and charismatic preaching. The intense emotional experience during worship can lead to phenomena where congregants might fall, shake, or cry, behaviors that could be interpreted as mass hysteria, especially in contexts where these are seen as signs of spiritual encounter. Hillsong’s focus on personal experience and emotional connection with God sometimes overshadows traditional theological discourse, potentially leading to a collective fervor.
Toronto Blessing: While not a church but a revival movement, the Toronto Blessing of the 1990s at the Toronto Airport Vineyard church included phenomena like “holy laughter,” shaking, and falling down, which were interpreted as manifestations of the Holy Spirit. Critics argued these were signs of mass hysteria, where the collective setting and emotional intensity led to behaviors not necessarily rooted in rational thought or consistent biblical interpretation.
The Jesus Culture Movement: Originating from Bethel Church, Jesus Culture has spread through music and conferences, promoting an intense worship experience. Their gatherings can lead to moments where participants engage in what might be seen as ecstatic or hysterical behavior, like prolonged crying, shouting, or physical manifestations believed to be spiritual in nature. This movement illustrates how modern religious experiences can sometimes veer into areas where the line between spiritual experience and collective emotional response becomes thin.
The Lakeland Revival: Led by Todd Bentley in 2008, this revival was marked by claims of miraculous healings, visions, and other spiritual phenomena. The revival’s services were filled with ecstatic worship, emotional testimonies, and Bentley’s dramatic style of ministry, which included physical actions like kicking or punching to “release” healing. The fervor and the rapid spread of belief in these miracles, despite little scientific validation, mirror historical instances of mass hysteria where belief outpaces evidence.
In these modern examples, the elements of mass hysteria include:
Charismatic Leadership: Leaders who can inspire intense emotional responses through their preaching or presence.
Emotional Atmosphere: Created by music, lighting, and the collective energy of the crowd, leading to a feedback loop of emotional intensity.
Shared Beliefs: A common narrative or expectation about what should happen in a spiritual setting, often reinforced by testimonials or shared experiences.
Media Amplification: The use of live streams, social media, and other digital platforms to spread these experiences, sometimes magnifying the phenomenon beyond the immediate congregation.
These manifestations often resemble the collective emotional responses seen in historical hysterias, where individuals, swept up in the moment, act in ways that might not align with logical or doctrinal norms. For instance, the fervent, sometimes ecstatic reactions in contemporary church services mirror the communal behaviors during the Salem witch trials, where fear and belief in the supernatural led to irrational actions. Similarly, the “Toronto Blessing” of the 1990s, with its “holy laughter” and physical manifestations, can be likened to the medieval dancing plagues, where participants were driven by shared emotion or belief to engage in what appeared to be involuntary, collective behavior.
This transcendence of rational thought is further amplified by modern media, where live streaming and social media can spread these experiences globally, creating a feedback loop of belief and expectation that can intensify the hysteria. The line between a genuine spiritual encounter and a mass emotional event becomes blurred, challenging observers and participants alike to discern between what might be a divine intervention and what could be explained through psychological or sociological phenomena. Thus, while these movements claim to offer a direct line to the divine, the dynamics at play often echo the complexities of human psychology and social influence, where the search for spiritual fulfillment can sometimes lead to behaviors as confounding and controversial as those seen in history’s pages.
2. Charismatic Leadership:
Joel Osteen is a quintessential charismatic leader. His persona, often described as the “smiling preacher,” has an immense draw due to his positive, upbeat messaging. His ability to attract tens of thousands weekly to services and millions through broadcasts illustrates how his charisma can lead to a form of mass following, akin to historical figures in mass hysteria movements who captivated crowds with their personality and messaging.
Evidence: Osteen’s transition from a reluctant pastor to one of America’s most recognized religious figures, with a congregation of 45,000 weekly attendees, speaks to his influence. His books, like “Your Best Life Now,” selling millions, show how his message resonates on a mass scale.
Charisma isn’t a pastoral prerequisite:
J.P. Holding, Reasons for Jesus: The Danger Of Prosperity Preaching: A Review Of Joel Osteen
Criticism: Osteen lacks formal training as a pastor.
Judgment: Confirmed.Not surprisingly, Osteen’s program of non-disconfirmation gives him a ready means to deflect a related criticism that he lacks formal training as a pastor (which in turn, readily explains the lack of substantive answers to theological questions). In the 60 Minutes interview, Mike Wallace brought this up, and noted Osteen’s reply that the twelve disciples of Jesus didn’t have formal training either.
This is not quite true, or the whole story. Matthew certainly had the equivalent to a modern seminary education as a scribe; Paul had extensive rabbinic training as a disciple, and Luke was among the most educated persons of his day.
Osteen has positioned himself as a broker of information on the Gospel – as presented in a document written in another language, another time, and another place. His example of the apostles, his only argument to the contrary, is simply not effectual. Osteen owes it to his congregants (as do all pastors) to either receive such training, or else consult with those who have.
This is especially the case with his current status as a “celebrity” as recognized by secular news organizations. He is Christ’s ambassador, and “I don’t know” – not used on occasion, but repeated often, and concerning important issues — does not represent Christ well to anyone, nor does it fulfill the commission to make disciples of all nations. It also once again makes James 3:1 all the more ominous … “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”
Once again, we can only hope that Osteen’s congregants will not pay the price for this further down the road. As we note in an article on the meaning of faith, Osteen’s understanding is incorrect. “Not understanding” is not a natural aspect of faith; while faith may sometimes require us to trust without understanding, it does not do so for lack of answers or in order to come to the defense of the irrational.
Eventually, for some of Osteen’s congregants, cognitive dissonance will set in when they realize that their questions deserve answers that Osteen’s teachings cannot provide.
3. Prosperity Gospel:
The enemy is strategic. He knows how to plant doubt, discouragement, and inferiority at just the right time. You could shrink back. Instead, get in agreement with God.
Check out Joel’s message, “A Thousand Times More”: https://t.co/fzO8ZeVnAZ pic.twitter.com/lDkvQh9IC9
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) July 19, 2024
Oh, and you know you’ve really hit rock bottom when even the Babylon Bee decides you’re satire-worthy. I mean, if your antics are so outlandish that they’ve become the punchline of a Christian satire site known for lampooning the absurd, congratulations, you’ve officially entered the ‘Hall of Shame’ in the world of internet mockery. That’s when you know you’ve transcended mere controversy and stepped into the realm of legendarily bad.
Osteen’s propagation of the prosperity gospel—where financial and health blessings are seen as rewards from God for faith—can be likened to a modern-day hysteria. This doctrine:
Promotes Unchecked Belief: It encourages followers to believe in financial gain through faith alone, which can lead to irrational financial decisions or neglect of personal responsibility.
Creates Cognitive Dissonance: When prosperity does not materialize, it can lead followers into a loop of self-blame or increased faith, akin to historical hysteria where individuals would intensify their beliefs despite contrary evidence.
Exploits Hope: Much like historical mass movements, it leverages human hope for a better life but without the grounding in reality, leading to behaviors where followers might make life-altering decisions based on the promise of divine favor.
Evidence: The controversy around Osteen’s wealth and the church’s financial practices, including tax exemptions and income from book sales, while preaching about giving, mirrors how leaders in hysteria movements often benefited personally.
4. Mass Gatherings and Emotional Intensity:
Lakewood Church’s services resemble mass gatherings where the emotional intensity is palpable:
High Energy Services: The atmosphere in Lakewood Church mirrors historical gatherings where collective emotion was used to reinforce belief, with music, testimonials, and Osteen’s preaching creating an environment where skepticism might be suspended.
Emotional Contagion: The collective experience can lead to emotional contagion, where individuals feed off the energy of the crowd, leading to heightened emotional states that can be mistaken for spiritual experiences or confirmation of the preached doctrines.
Evidence: The sheer scale of Lakewood Church, once an NBA arena, hosting services with 45,000 attendees, provides a venue for this type of mass emotional experience.
Matt Walsh enters the chat: “Has anyone really listened closely to this guy!”
Joel Osteen’s Fake, Heretical ‘Christianity’ Isn’t Any Better Than Atheism
If you don’t pay attention to where you’re going on the internet, you may accidentally expose yourself to some terribly objectionable content. I’m usually very careful about that, but yesterday I let my guard down for just a moment and I ended up reading a Joel Osteen tweet. I don’t follow the famous motivational speaker on Twitter, but someone I do follow happened to retweet one of his self-esteem boosting quips. It said:
When you can give God praise even when life doesn’t make sense, then He will release you into a new level of your destiny.
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) July 30, 2016I was confused. Release me into a new level of my destiny? What does that mean? And is this a reliable guarantee? If I praise God enough, can I be quite confident that I will ascend to this graduated plane of existence where greater success and fortune awaits? What can be said, then, about the people who are not at that level? Have they simply failed to be grateful? Are all the people at the higher level more grateful than the ones at the lower level?
Ah, but there are no answers to these questions. These are just Osteenisms, similar in character and quality to all other Osteenisms. Vapid, approaching creepy. The kind of wisdom you look forward to reading on a little slip of paper after you just finished way more than your fair share of General Tso’s, but also not far from what you’d expect to see if you flipped through a copy of Dianetics. Basically, a Joel Osteen tweet — and a Joel Osteen sermon, which is just a collection of Joel Osteen tweets — is exactly what you’d get if L. Ron Hubbard wrote fortune cookies. Or if Yoda and Dr. Phil had a baby, and then the baby attended too many Tony Robbins seminars.
Still, I was compelled by some dark force to click on the good pastor’s Twitter page and read more of these morsels. As I skimmed, I learned, among other things, that “if I get rid of the negative” then “God will fill my life with good things,” and that I must “break out in my thinking” so that I won’t be “kept from my destiny,” and that if I “live in my faith” very soon “all of my dreams will come to pass,” and that I can only “go forward” if I don’t “focus on the negative,” and that “if I have a positive mindset” then “I can’t be defeated,” and that “the fuel I need to accomplish my dreams, release my potential, and overcome obstacles is the anointing on my life.”
I’m fairly sure that last one actually makes no sense. It’s almost like a bunch of random buzzwords from a Joel Osteen word search were strung together haphazardly. This is common with prosperity preachers. Lacking the truth, they tend sometimes to descend into utter incoherence, pouring out of their smiling mouths a verbal smoothie of faintly spiritual cliches.
5. Response to Criticism and External Events:
The reaction to criticism or external events like the Lakewood Church shooting further illustrates this hysteria:
Defensive Reactions: Osteen’s response to criticism during events like Hurricane Harvey or the church shooting shows a pattern where the community rallies around their leader, often with more fervor, akin to how groups in hysteria would defend their beliefs or leader against external scrutiny.
Confirmation Bias: The tragedy at Lakewood might have been interpreted by some as an attack on their faith, reinforcing their beliefs rather than questioning them, a common trait in mass hysteria where events are seen through the lens of the group’s narrative.
Evidence: Public statements by Osteen and the congregation’s response to crises, like the shooting, show how adversity can strengthen the movement’s cohesion rather than dismantle it.
Here are some modern religious leaders who have been notably critical of Joel Osteen:
John MacArthur: One of the most influential figures in contemporary evangelical Christianity
MacArthur has served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, since 1969. He is also the president of The Master’s University and Seminary, where he has shaped numerous future pastors and theologians with his conservative, expository preaching style and commitment to biblical inerrancy.
MacArthur’s criticism of Joel Osteen is rooted in his staunch opposition to what he terms the “prosperity gospel.” Here’s an expanded look at why MacArthur considers Osteen’s teachings heretical:
The Prosperity Gospel Critique: MacArthur accuses Osteen of promoting a version of Christianity that prioritizes personal success, wealth, and health over the core tenets of the Gospel. In his view, Osteen’s messages often omit or downplay the need for repentance, the reality of sin, and the atoning work of Jesus Christ, focusing instead on a feel-good, self-improvement theology.
In “Strange Fire”: This book, published in 2013, MacArthur tackles the charismatic movement, but his criticisms inadvertently capture much of what he sees in Osteen’s ministry. He argues that Osteen’s teachings are a form of “strange fire” – a reference to Leviticus where offerings not commanded by God were presented, leading to divine judgment. MacArthur sees Osteen’s focus on prosperity as a similarly unauthorized addition to the Gospel message.
Public Statements and Sermons: Beyond his written works, MacArthur has used his platform, including his radio program “Grace to You,” to critique Osteen. He has described Osteen’s ministry as one where “the gospel is not the issue; the gospel is not the message; the gospel is not the point,” emphasizing that Osteen’s preaching often centers on self-actualization rather than salvation through Christ alone.
Consequences of Prosperity Teaching: MacArthur warns that Osteen’s version of Christianity leads followers astray by offering a “gospel” of personal gain rather than one of self-sacrifice, suffering, and true discipleship. He believes this not only misrepresents Christianity but can also lead to disillusionment when the promised material blessings do not materialize.
Biblical Exposition vs. Inspirational Speaking: MacArthur contrasts his own method of teaching, which involves verse-by-verse exposition of the Bible, with Osteen’s style, which he describes as more akin to motivational speaking. He argues that this difference in approach leads to a superficial understanding of scripture among Osteen’s followers.
MacArthur’s critique extends beyond just Osteen to encompass a broader warning against the encroachment of secular success culture into Christian theology. His stance has sparked debates within evangelical circles about the nature of faith, the purpose of preaching, and how one should measure the success of a ministry – by numbers and wealth, or by spiritual growth and adherence to biblical truth.
The tension between MacArthur’s conservative theology and Osteen’s prosperity-focused messages represents a significant fault line in modern Christianity, where questions of doctrine, the role of the church in the world, and the essence of the Gospel are constantly re-examined. MacArthur’s criticisms are not just theological but also cultural, reflecting deep concerns about how the American dream might corrupt the Christian message.
Michael Horton: A distinguished theologian
Horton serves as a professor at Westminster Seminary California, where he has spent decades teaching and shaping theological thought. Known for his deep engagement with Reformation theology, Horton has made significant contributions through his writings, including books like “Christless Christianity,” where he critiques contemporary American Christianity’s drift from traditional doctrines.
Horton’s critique of Joel Osteen is particularly poignant given his theological stance. He has been one of the most vocal critics in mainstream media, notably featured in a “60 Minutes” segment titled “Joel Osteen Answers His Critics.” Here, Horton didn’t mince words:
Heresy Claim: Horton labeled Osteen’s teachings as “heresy,” a strong term in theological circles, suggesting that Osteen’s message fundamentally deviates from orthodox Christian doctrine. His contention is that Osteen’s emphasis on personal happiness, success, and health as signs of God’s favor represents a misrepresentation of the Gospel, focusing more on self-improvement than on the transformative work of Christ.
Theological Concerns: Horton’s criticism centers on what he perceives as Osteen’s omission of key Christian doctrines like sin, repentance, and the cross. According to Horton, Osteen’s presentations often reduce Christianity to a feel-good self-help guide, which he sees as a form of “moralistic therapeutic deism” rather than the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Public Discourse: Beyond the 60 Minutes segment, Horton has discussed Osteen’s theology in various platforms, including his radio show “The White Horse Inn” and in articles. He often contrasts Osteen’s message with the Reformation’s emphasis on grace, faith, and the sufficiency of Scripture, arguing that the prosperity gospel preached by Osteen lacks these foundational truths.
Cultural Impact: Horton’s critique is not just an academic exercise but a call to the broader Christian community to reconsider what kind of Christianity is being exported to the masses. He warns that Osteen’s approach, while appealing, might lead to a hollow form of Christianity where personal gain is confused with spiritual growth.
Educational Role: As an educator, Horton uses these critiques to teach about the importance of doctrine in Christian life, emphasizing that faith should not be reduced to a means for personal success but should lead to understanding one’s need for salvation through Christ alone.
Engagement with Contemporary Christianity: His criticism of Osteen reflects a broader engagement with contemporary Christian culture, where he seeks to reinvigorate a return to the historical and theological roots of the faith, warning against the dangers of diluting the Gospel message for popular appeal.
Horton’s stance against Osteen’s teachings exemplifies his commitment to doctrinal purity and the need for the church to maintain its theological integrity amidst a culture that often prefers a less challenging, more palatable version of Christianity. His critiques are a reminder of the ongoing dialogue within Christianity about what it means to truly follow Christ.
R. Albert Mohler Jr.: President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
R. Albert Mohler Jr. is not only a leading figure in evangelical Christianity but also a vocal critic of theological trends he sees as deviations from orthodox Christianity. His criticisms of Joel Osteen’s ministry extend beyond mere theological disagreement into a broader discourse on the health of contemporary Christianity:
Critique on Core Doctrines: Mohler has pointed out that Osteen’s messages often omit or minimize key Christian doctrines like the need for repentance, the reality of sin, and the centrality of Christ’s atonement. He argues that Osteen’s sermons lack depth, focusing instead on self-improvement and worldly success, which Mohler sees as a superficial understanding of the Gospel.
Example: In one of his articles, Mohler critiques Osteen’s book “Your Best Life Now,” suggesting it presents a version of Christianity that’s more about personal gain than spiritual transformation. He describes this as a “gospel of self-fulfillment” rather than a call to discipleship and sacrifice.
Podcast Commentary: On “The Briefing,” Mohler’s daily analysis of news and culture from a Christian worldview, he has often discussed Osteen’s influence. He warns of the dangers of what he calls “gospel-lite” or “therapeutic deism,” where God is seen more as a cosmic therapist than the sovereign judge and savior described in scripture. Mohler uses these platforms to urge Christians to return to foundational truths rather than be swayed by feel-good theology.
Public Speaking: In various public addresses, Mohler has contrasted Osteen’s approach with what he believes is authentic Christianity. He often cites the need for a robust doctrine that includes the realities of sin, judgment, and the transformative power of the Gospel, not merely the promise of earthly prosperity.
Educational Emphasis: Given his role at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Mohler has incorporated these critiques into educational materials and lectures, shaping future Christian leaders to recognize and counter what he views as theological dilution. He emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded theological education to discern and teach the full counsel of God, not just the parts that promise immediate personal benefits.
Cultural Impact: Mohler doesn’t just critique Osteen; he discusses the broader cultural implications of such teachings. He warns that when Christianity is reduced to a feel-good message, it risks losing its prophetic and transformative power in society. This perspective ties into his broader commentary on how churches should engage with culture, politics, and personal morality.
Engagement with Contemporary Issues: Mohler often ties his critique of Osteen’s theology to contemporary issues like consumerism in religion, the health and wealth gospel’s impact on global Christianity, and the challenge of maintaining evangelical identity in an era where many seek only comfort from religion.
The Mormon Conundrum: Mohler notes a disturbing report about Osteen’s observation on Mormonism.
Does Joel Osteen Not Know, or Does He Not Care?
Joel Osteen is in the news once again, this time for saying that Mormonism is just another form of Christianity. Osteen, pastor of “America’s largest church,” as the media repeat over and over, was speaking to The Washington Times in an interview that covered a variety of issues. It was the quintessential Joel on display.
On Mormonism, Joel said:
“I believe that [Mormons] are Christians . . . . I don’t know if it’s the purest form of Christianity, like I grew up with. But you know what, I know Mormons. I hear Mitt Romney — and I’ve never met him — but I hear him say, ‘I believe Jesus is the son of God,’ ‘I believe he’s my savior,’ and that’s one of the core issues.”
“I’m sure there are other issues that we don’t agree on. But you know, I can say that the Baptists and the Methodists and the Catholics don’t all agree on everything. So that would be my take on it.”
Osteen just stated his belief that Mormons are Christians. He then expressed the thought that Mormonism “might not be the purest form of Christianity, like I grew up with,” but he affirmed Mormon statements that Jesus is the Son of God and that He is Savior.
Evaluating Osteen’s boyhood understanding of Christianity would be a project unto itself, given the shifting theology of his preacher father, the late John Osteen.
The main point of concern in Joel’s latest comment is the lack of any biblical standard of judgment and the total abdication of theological responsibility. He relegates doctrinal disagreements between Christians and Mormons to the status of theological debates between Protestant denominations and then includes Roman Catholicism. There are plenty of issues there, and the issues are not the same when comparing Baptists to Methodists, on the one hand, and Protestants and Roman Catholics, on the other. Comparing any form of Trinitarian orthodoxy with Mormonism is another class of question altogether.
The little details of it? Mormonism does not differ from historic biblical Christianity in only the “little details,” and a faithful Mormon would be the first to point this out. Mormonism begins with a plurality of gods, not with the monotheism of the Bible. Jesus Christ is an exalted man — not the incarnate Word. The list of categorical doctrinal differences continues throughout the entire belief system.
The very essence of Mormonism is the claim that historic Christianity is fundamentally in error, and that true Christianity did not exist on earth from the time of the Apostles until Joseph Smith. Mormonism can hardly be charged with hiding their movement’s teachings — the Book of Mormon and the other fundamental texts of the Latter Day Saints are published in plain sight.
Here we face a fundamental dilemma. When Joel Osteen hears a summary of Mormon belief that mentions God assuming “the shape of a man,” does he lack the theological discernment to hear how that differs from biblical Christianity, or does it not concern him? In other words, does Joel not know, or does Joel not care?
In the end, we have to conclude that he does not care enough to know, and that is the greater tragedy for a Christian minister. He doesn’t “get hung up” on doctrinal issues, nor has he “really studied them or thought about them.” His own words indict him.
In essence, Mohler’s criticism of Joel Osteen’s theology is part of his larger mission to safeguard and promote what he views as biblical Christianity against what he perceives as modern distortions. His method is not only to critique but to provide an alternative vision of what church leadership and teaching should look like, rooted in historical Christian doctrine and practice.
Tim Challies: A Christian Blogger and Author
Tim Challies is a prominent figure in the Christian blogging community, known for his insightful critiques on various theological issues through his website, Challies.com. His work extends beyond blogging; he’s an author of several books, including “The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment,” where he advocates for a biblically grounded approach to faith.
Challies has been particularly vocal about his concerns regarding the prosperity gospel, a movement within Christianity that suggests God rewards faith with material wealth, health, and success. Here’s how he specifically addresses Joel Osteen and the broader prosperity theology:
Extensive Writing: On his blog, Challies has written numerous articles dissecting prosperity theology. He often uses Osteen as a case study due to his significant influence and the widespread dissemination of his teachings. One of his more notable pieces includes a review of Osteen’s book, ” “Become a Better You.” Challies writes, “Osteen teaches self-help but wraps it in a thin guise of Christian terminology. Thus people believe they are being taught the Bible when the reality is that they are learning mere human wisdom rather than divine wisdom.”
Focus on Material Prosperity: Challies argues that Osteen’s messages prioritize material wealth and personal success over spiritual health and the traditional Christian emphasis on suffering, sacrifice, and sanctification. He points out that Osteen’s sermons often lack depth, focusing instead on positive thinking and self-improvement, which he sees as a misrepresentation of the Gospel.
Misleading Followers: A recurring theme in Challies’ critique is how prosperity preaching can mislead followers. He explains that by promising worldly gains as a sign of faith, this theology can lead believers to a shallow faith, where their relationship with God is transactional rather than transformative. This perspective, Challies warns, can cause disillusionment when the promised prosperity does not materialize, potentially leading individuals away from Christianity altogether.
Biblical Counterarguments: Challies frequently cites scripture to counter prosperity theology. He emphasizes passages like Matthew 6:19-21, where Jesus speaks about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, or the numerous instances where the Bible celebrates poverty in spirit, meekness, and the acceptance of hardship as part of the Christian walk.
Cultural Impact: He also discusses how Osteen’s brand of Christianity fits into a broader cultural narrative of American individualism and consumerism, where faith becomes another tool for personal gain rather than communal or spiritual growth. Challies sees this as not only theologically incorrect but also culturally corrosive, undermining the communal aspects of Christianity.
Call for Discernment: Through his writings, Challies encourages Christians to practice discernment, urging them to measure what they hear against the whole counsel of Scripture. He advocates for a return to teachings that promote humility, sacrifice, and a focus on the eternal rather than the temporal.
Books and Speaking Engagements: Apart from his blog, Challies has authored books like “The Next Story: Life and Faith after the Digital Explosion,” where he explores how technology intersects with faith, offering another layer to understanding his critique of cultural trends in Christianity, including prosperity theology.
Influence: His work has influenced a wide audience, providing a counter-narrative to popular but, in his view, theologically unsound teachings. He engages with his readers through comments, fostering a community that values critical thinking about faith.
In summary, Tim Challies stands out as a voice of discernment in the digital age of Christianity, particularly regarding the prosperity gospel’s implications. His critiques of Joel Osteen are part of a broader call to return to what he perceives as the true essence of Christian doctrine—focused on spiritual growth, humility, and the cross rather than the accumulation of worldly success.
Related Online Criticism:
Yes, there is online information about Lakewood Church members or individuals associated with the church who have left and subsequently published criticisms of the ministry. Here are some notable examples based on web results:
Reddit Discussion: On platforms like Reddit, former attendees or observers of Lakewood Church have shared criticisms. A thread titled “Why do people still attend Lakewood Church after everything about Osteen has been coming out?” on r/NoStupidQuestions discusses the church’s handling of financial matters, the response to Hurricane Harvey, and other controversies surrounding Joel Osteen. Here, users express disbelief at the continued attendance, citing Osteen’s wealth, his response to natural disasters, and perceived insincerity.
General Critiques from Religious Leaders: While not former members, several religious leaders and authors have critiqued Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen’s teachings. For example, Pastor Adam Key from Psalm 24 Ministries wrote “Your Best Lie Now: The Gospel According to Joel Osteen,” which directly challenges Osteen’s theology and practices. This book, along with other critiques, indicates a broader discourse around Lakewood’s teachings, although these are from outside perspectives rather than from within the church itself.
Public and Media Scrutiny: Various articles and discussions highlight criticisms from former attendees or those who have closely observed the church’s operations. The Guardian, for instance, covered the slow response of Lakewood Church to Hurricane Harvey, where criticism came from both the public and former or current members. Similarly, discussions around the prosperity gospel, which Lakewood advocates, have led to criticisms from theologians and former members of similar churches, pointing to a broader critique of the church’s doctrine and financial practices.
Online Forums and Social Media: Beyond formal publications, there’s a plethora of informal criticism on social media platforms and forums where individuals share personal experiences or observations about Lakewood, often focusing on the church’s focus on prosperity, the handling of donations, and the personal wealth of its leadership.
While specific cases of former members publishing critical books or articles directly about their experiences at Lakewood are not extensively documented in the search results provided, the general discourse around Lakewood is rich with criticism from both former affiliates and external observers, focusing on theological, financial, and ethical concerns.
The “Not Exactly Stunning” Kanye West Endorsement:
Revolt.TV: Kanye West defends Joel Osteen at Lakewood Church
Kanye West and Joel Osteen reportedly had a fulfilling conversation today (Nov. 17, 2019) at the Lakewood Church in Houston. TMZ reports that one of the big takeaways from the chat was Kanye defending Osteen and his reputation within the Christian community.
The outlet says Kanye noted that Osteen was responsible for converting thousands of people to Christianity, and that alone should receive more praise than criticism.
The Jesus Is King rapper boasted a bit as well, saying that he was the greatest artist God ever created. He added that he is currently working with God, opposed to working for the devil, which he feels most of his peers are currently doing.
We previously reported that Kanye will be holding his Sunday Service at Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston. After Kanye’s conversation with Osteen about his life transformation and religious journey, it was reported that his 120-person choir would perform for the evening service, which is a ticketed event due to the 45,000 people that are expected to attend. Ticketmaster provided tickets for the Sunday Service on Friday morning (Nov. 15), but some fans experienced difficulty accessing the site, due to the influx of visitors.
In an ironic twist, Kanye West, who defended Joel Osteen with fervor at Lakewood Church in 2019, praising him for his positive outlook and impact on Christianity, has since taken a path that starkly contrasts with his earlier expressions of faith. West’s later public disavowal of Christianity, coupled with his claim of being a “god” himself after feeling that Jesus did not answer his prayers, directly undermines the very foundation of Christian belief he was advocating for. This evolution in his spiritual narrative not only questions his reliability as a commentator on faith but also highlights the irony of him standing up for Osteen, a figure often criticized for promoting a diluted version of Christianity centered on prosperity. West’s journey from a defender of faith to a self-proclaimed deity underscores the complexities and contradictions in modern expressions of religious belief, casting a shadow over the authenticity of his earlier endorsements.
Concluding thoughts:
While “mass hysteria” might seem an extreme comparison, the elements of charismatic leadership, belief in unprovable prosperity, mass emotional gatherings, and the reinforcement of belief through adversity align Joel Osteen and Lakewood Church with historical movements where rationality took a backseat to collective belief. This isn’t to say all followers are in a state of hysteria, but the structure, messaging, and reactions within this church suggest a modern manifestation of how mass movements can sway individuals into collective irrationality or fervor.
Despite the theological critiques from respected religious leaders, the allure of Joel Osteen and Lakewood Church remains potent. The reasons are manifold: Osteen’s message of hope, prosperity, and personal empowerment resonates in an era where many seek relief from life’s challenges. His positive, inclusive approach offers an accessible form of Christianity that contrasts with more traditional, austere interpretations of faith. The promise of a “best life now” appeals to those looking for immediate, tangible benefits from their faith, providing comfort and motivation amidst personal or societal turmoil. Additionally, Lakewood’s impressive scale, combined with Osteen’s charismatic presence, creates an engaging, community-driven experience that can feel like a celebration rather than a sermon. While these aspects might diverge from some Biblical foundations, they cater to a human desire for happiness, success, and a sense of belonging, explaining why millions are drawn to its message and ministry.
For an additional resource on Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen, check out our other post, “Positive Thinking vs. Divine Grace: Why Joel Osteen’s Message Wouldn’t Fly in the First Century.”
The core message of Joel Osteen’s “good news” is that God’s love can elevate you from mediocrity and small dreams. By believing in and obeying God, you can achieve big dreams, self-esteem, favor, health, wealth, influence, a better job, a positive self-image, and a life free from negativity. This message is consistent across his books, sermons, media appearances, and social media presence.
It’s important to note that Osteen frequently mentions God, but not in a personal or relatable way. His references to God lack specific Christian or biblical context, devoid of doctrinal or theological depth. Instead, he presents God as an abstract, impersonal entity, akin to a cosmic vending machine dispensing blessings and improvements to your life. Even when God is mentioned, the focus is not on God himself, but rather on what God can do for you.
Joel Osteen’s message may resonate in the modern world, but it starkly contrasts with the teachings of the New Testament apostles. They emphasized humility, sacrifice, community, and spiritual transformation, aligning with Christ’s call to deny oneself, take up their cross, and follow Him Matthew 16:24. Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” This stands in stark opposition to the prosperity gospel’s focus on material wealth and personal success, which echoes the warnings against the love of money 1 Timothy 6:10. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. and the deceitfulness of riches Matthew 13:22. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.
While Osteen’s intentions may seem good, his message could be seen as a wolf in sheep’s clothing Matthew 7:15. Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves, leading people away from the narrow path that leads to life Matthew 7:14. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. His teachings, though alluring, ultimately distract from the true Gospel, which centers on repentance, faith in Christ, and a transformed life. Let us not be deceived by the attractive packaging; instead, let us hold fast to the timeless truths of Scripture, seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else Matthew 6:33. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.