Back in 1993 I picked up a book entited "Christianity in Crisis" by Hank Handgraaff. It was a large book that methodically and meticulously documented the teaching of the "Word of Faith" movement by many of its most famous purveyors. One of the most familiar tenets of the "Word of Faith" movement is what is often referred to as "The Prosperity Gospel". I remember being amazed at what was being taught by so many, and equally amazed at the crowds of people buying into such teaching. I also remember assuming this movement was doomed because it was so far away from the truth of Scripture.
Now 18 years later I see how wrong I was. More and more, at "Christian" bookstores, and "Christian Conferences" like Catalyst, and at events like "The Elephant Room", the Prosperity Gospel seems to be going mainstream. The warning of the Apostle Paul from Acts 20 seems more and more disregarded by many who seem to be able teach so well.
"Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears." (Acts 20:28-31)
This afternoon I found this short video from John Piper. I could not be more in agreement with him.
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