We can’t ignore Joel Osteen
We can’t ignore Joel Osteen, though I wish we could. His “church” in Houston hosts more than 35,000 attendees each Sunday, and more than 7 million viewers watch his messages on TV each week (no need to wear a cross, just put on an IWJO lapel).
While Osteen’s message is far from the biblical Gospel Jesus Himself preached, people are clamoring for his self-help mantras. His message appeals to the longings of the natural mind — we want money and happiness, but we do not want God Himself. The gifts are more beautiful and compelling than the Giver. We want what God can give us but not God Himself.
Below I’ve compiled a few helpful resources in wading through the shallow waters Osteen swims in. Let me know if you find others.
Watch the video or read the transcript from the CBS 60 Minutes segment on 10/14/07.
Michael Horton of Westminster Seminary was interviewed in the Osteen segment. Read more essays by Horton about Osteen.
- Also, White Horse Inn (Horton’s radio ministry) hosts some related resources
Michael Spencer gives some comments on Osteen’s 60 Minutes piece from 10/14 on CBS
Tullian Tchividjian reminds us How to Identify a “Reliable Carrier” of God’s Truth
Tim Challies reviews Osteen’s new book, Become a Better You
Brent Thomas offers some reasons Why Joel Osteen’s Newest Book Should Not Be Sold in “Christian” Bookstores
Prosperity Gospel in Africa in Christianity Today (via Desiring God blog)
Short John Piper video excerpt on America’s Ugly Exported “Gospel”
John Piper sermon, “Prosperity Preaching: Deceitful and Deadly”
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