The Real Prosperity Gospel

Taken from our pastor's notes:

"All of us have heard about the prosperity gospel. It is a false teaching that says if you claim wealth in faith, you will become wealthy. Interestingly enough, this message is based upon a half truth. What is true, is that there are in fact economic ramifications to the gospel of Jesus Christ. As a general rule, (there are significant exceptions to this) obedient Christians tend to do better financially than those who do not fear God. This is due to two factors. The first is the blessing of God. The second is that a redeemed personality is more likely to treat money differently."

He went on to explain that it is a notable phenomenon that when people give their lives to Christ, they give their money too, and their time. They have a different mind set, and don't spend money on themselves. Money begins to accumulate and instead of spending it on alcohol, gambling, parties, etc. they have more than when they lived a wasted life. In tribal countries where men used to beat their wives, and let them do all the work, after they found Christ they began to work with their wives, and so earned more to bring into the home. It's an amazing concept. Once our lives are cleaned up and surrendered to God, the blessings come upon us.

Deuteronomy 28: 1 & 2 "And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord...all of these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you."

Points from the Pastor's message:

The godly life often has economic advantages.
The godly life heightens our EQ. (emotional intelligence)
The godly life combines worship and work in one unified whole.
The godly life seeks the way of peace.
The godly life sees compounding benefits.

Prosperity and generosity are related.