The prosperity gospel is the belief that faith, positive confession, and giving will result in material wealth, physical health, and worldly success. It teaches that God guarantees prosperity to those who follow certain spiritual formulas. This message is not biblical, it distorts the gospel and appeals to fleshly desires.
1 Timothy 6:5 warns against those:
“…who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.”
The Bible teaches contentment, not covetousness. True faith is not measured by financial success. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:12–13:
“I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound… I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Jesus warned against storing up treasures on earth and said:
“You cannot serve God and mammon.” (Matthew 6:24)
While God does bless His people, those blessings are not always material. Many faithful believers suffer poverty, sickness, and persecution. Hebrews 11 describes men and women of great faith who suffered greatly.
The prosperity gospel contradicts the example of Christ, who had no place to lay His head (Luke 9:58), and of the apostles, who endured hardship for the sake of the gospel.
2 Timothy 3:12 says:
“Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.”
The true gospel calls for self-denial, not self-exaltation. It offers eternal life, not earthly riches. Teaching that God guarantees health and wealth undermines biblical suffering, spiritual maturity, and trust in God’s will.
Believers are called to be good stewards, generous, and thankful. Not to chase after riches as proof of faith. The prosperity gospel is a counterfeit that must be rejected.
