How Greed, Coveteousness and Personal Gain Dominates Modern-Day Evangelicalism

By Rev. Dr. Robert S. Henry

In our consumption-oriented society, everyone’s energy is seen to be directed at attainment and profit. The implication of this matter is enhanced by the explicit obsession and preoccupation with money matters among church groups. It is made even more serious because of the recent rise in the popularity of the “doctrine of prosperity” among certain evangelical groups. The modern-day preacher promotes wealth as a signal of spirituality and favor from God. Instead, they should be considerate about saving souls rather than accumulating wealth and hoarding what they have left over (Luke 22:35 KJV). Another matter is the audacious attitudes of some church leaders who think they have the authority regrading the interpretation of scriptures that addresses biblical prosperity.

It is because of obvious errors in present-day teaching on giving and prosperity that there is so much uncertainty among those who want to support the work of God in a way that pleases Him. Many questions are left unanswered, resulting in confusion, unhealthy desires to become rich, and many misconceptions in the way the world views Christians in general.

Because of the many abnormalities and uncertainties, this book examines the premise upon which the prosperity doctrine is built, and the methods used to raise finances. Moreover, doctrines that are inconsistent with Scripture are identified and repudiated.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Jun 26, 2022
• ISBN: 9781664268807

Rev. Dr. Robert S. Henry

Reverend Dr. Robert Henry has served as a pastor and missionary in Western Europe, Eastern Canada and in Jamaica for over 50 years. Driven by his bible - inspired passion, Reverend Henry seeks to inform and enable people to know and live their God-given purpose.

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Copyright © 2022 Rev. Dr. Robert S. Henry.

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This book is a work of non-fiction. Unless otherwise noted, the author and the publisher make no explicit guarantees as to the accuracy of the information contained in this book and in some cases, names of people and places have been altered to protect their privacy.

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Unless marked otherwise, all Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version.

ISBN: 978-1-6642-6878-4 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-6642-6879-1 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-6642-6880-7 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022911134

WestBow Press rev. date: 6/24/2022

Contents

Preface

Introduction

1. The Meanings of Prosperity

2. The Misinterpretation of Spiritual Prosperity Persists

3. A Look at Modern Means of Fundraising

4. Implications of Teaching Prosperity Doctrines

5. A Close Look at Scripture Used to Justify Teaching Prosperity

6. The Reasons Many Are Silent about Teachings Focussed on Material Wealth

7. Early Believers and Prosperity

8. How Did Jesus Respond to Material/Financial Pursuits?

9. The Devastating Results of Covetousness

10. What the Scriptures Teach about Giving

11. What about the Poor Believers?

Conclusion

Bibliography

Preface

In writing this book, I make no claim to being a theologian or even a biblical scholar. I am a Bible-believing Christian with the deep conviction not to add or subtract from the Word of God. Having had personal experience and multiple encounters with others of similar experiences, I share the following in reference to Christian circles’ current teachings about money.

In the 1980s, I pastored a small assembly attended by an elderly lady in her late eighties. She loved the Lord and was very committed to pleasing Him. However, she was enthralled with television and radio personalities who persuaded her to subscribe to their programs and donate substantial amounts of money. She lived alone, and her primary source of income was her monthly pension. I received a call from her one day, informing me that she was freezing and had no funds to purchase oil. She needed help. That same day, she gave the person I sent to aid her about four or five envelopes to deposit in the mail. I learned later that those envelopes contained money for the ministries she supported monthly.

I subsequently visited her and asked how she could be freezing and yet donate substantial funds to television and radio personalities while not tithing to her local church. Her response was that she had made vows to these ministries and was afraid God would punish her if she failed to fulfil her pledges. One amounted to five hundred dollars in exchange for a gift of twelve crystal mugs that portrayed an artist’s rendition of the twelve Apostles’ images. Rhetorically, how were these gifts spiritually beneficial. Unfortunately, the records of these gimmicks are not exhaustive. What kind of Christianity would promote such abuse? Any kind of gospel that would pressure, coerce, and intimidate to extract money from the poor—or even from the wealthy—is outright shameful and sinful.

My intention is not to condemn any televangelist or preacher. Rather, the practice of fleecing must be replaced with the great need to feed the flock of God. Sinful human nature always gravitates to wants, not needs; that is why unscrupulous preachers prey on them. Paul, writing to the young preacher in Timothy, should be read by every believer, especially preachers:

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment, let us therewith be content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation end a snare and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition i.e. spiritual ruin—for the love of money is the root of all evil, which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. (1 Timothy 6:6–10 KJV)

Material wealth is very insignificant when compared with what is described in verse 11 of the same chapter: But thou, O man of God, flee these things and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. (1 Timothy 6:11 KJV)

Of course, the tendency today is to give the people what they want, not what they need. This is despite God’s promise to supply our needs and not our wants.

Paul ‘s words to Timothy were:

"Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called: Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen." (1 Timothy 6: 13, 17–21 KJV)

It’s all about the negative effects on the believer who strives for riches. Some men of God, who should know better, have been ensnared to boldly twist the Scripture without shame. They rely on scriptures such as, But money answereth all things. (Ecclesiastes 10:19 KJV)

Money is not and never will be the answer to all things. Jesus is the only answer to all things. The writer is here stating that concerning this world system, money is the medium for all commerce. Mammon is a biblical term for money. Jesus refers to its debasing influence as unrighteous, and you cannot serve God and mammon; you will either love one or hate the other.

The great concern today is that in evangelical circles, so much emphasis is placed on the attainment of money rather than on holiness: Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14 KJV)

Beyond the shadow of any doubt, my Father’s house has become a house of merchandising (John 2:16 KJV), by modern evangelicals rather than a House of prayer (Matthew 21:13 KJV). More emphasis is placed on generating money and the teaching of prosperity than prayers being sent up. Sadly, the pew has wholeheartedly bought into this twisted version of biblical teaching on money matters and prosperity.

You will note throughout each chapter a recurring theme as highlighted above: Money is not and never will be the answer to all things. Jesus is the only answer to all things. Throughout this book you will find many scriptures repeated to emphasize their importance regarding this matter. Repetition is intentional as each chapter can be used and applied individually as a sermon or study. I give God praise for giving me understanding and boldness to teach God’s truth—His Holy Word!

Introduction

There can be no doubt in the minds of most Christians that there are serious divisions within the church community on the matter of giving and raising money for the work of Christian ministries. The seriousness of this matter is enhanced by the explicit obsession and preoccupation with money matters among church groups. It is made even more serious because of the recent rise in the popularity of the doctrine of prosperity among certain evangelical groups. The modern-day preacher promotes wealth as a signal of spirituality and favor from God. Instead, they should be considerate about saving souls rather than accumulating wealth and hoarding what they have left over (Luke 22:35).

This prosperity doctrine suggests that there is a definite connection not only between giving and receiving in general but also emphasizes that the amount given will bring in greater dividends in kind. It also stresses the claim that the believer’s subsequent prosperity is contingent on generosity towards specific churches. The claim further states that it is the will of God to rid all believers of poverty and make them rich in material things.

How can any God-fearing person be silent concerning the audacious behaviour of this conduct of interpreting scripture to satisfy one’s greed?

To present this doctrine as credible, passages of Scripture and the testimonies of those who embrace it and claim it works for them are used. This doctrine and misinterpretation is problematic as it inflates the truth.

In our consumption-oriented society, everyone’s energy is seen to be directed at the consumer. The news media, social media platforms, databanks, markets, and reporters of secular communication claim to be public informants. They will, perhaps, hold to the claim that their sole interest is to unbiasedly inform the public on matters that interest them. They want the giant share of the consumer market at any cost.

In a similar way, the salesperson will tell prospective clients that their satisfaction is always uppermost in his or her mind and product. Likewise, the politician, the doctor, and the lawyer will defend their integrity when it comes to their clients’ best interests. Even politicians defend their motives for seeking public office. They will speak of their long hours in the office, untiring efforts on behalf of their respective constituents, and their approachability—all in the aim of winning a majority.

In much the same way, church leaders are prone to defend their motives, efforts, and commitments to the work of God, their claims to sacrificial life and service, and their total undivided interest in the spiritual growth and development of the believer.

One should not allow cynicism to erode respect and admiration for these persons. That said, to protect oneself from deception, which is a God-given responsibility, assets should not be given over to anyone without first examining very carefully any and everything that could possibly influence them for good or evil.

Jesus made no apologies when He warned his followers about imminent and possible deception from many who would claim to be of God. Nor did the apostle Paul in his letters to the various churches. These warnings also apply to every believer today. Especially because they have special significance to the last days in which we are living.

Jesus also told his disciples plainly that The foxes have their holes and birds of the air have their nests; but the son of man hath not where to lay his head (Luke 9:58 KJV). And, A servant is not greater than his master. (John 15:20 KJV)

No one can afford to be blind to the possibility of deception that could come in any form and for any reason. No one can afford to leave the welfare of his or her soul to others, no matter who they are:

A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. (Proverbs 22:3 KJV)

And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you" (Matthew 24:4 KJV).

Each person is obligated to examine himself or herself and the doctrines they embrace. Otherwise, they themselves susceptible to deception.

The likely deception believers must deal with in the area of money is two-fold. On the one hand, there are those who seek to deceive in order to gain. And on the other hand, there is the accompanying deception that money itself has on humankind. Thus, the following warns of the deceitfulness of riches which chokes the Word.

And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. (Mark 4:19 KJV)

The decade of the eighties has been designated as the decade of greed. Along with the ignominious designation given to this generation—the me first generation—one must seriously confront oneself as to the validity and accuracy of what one accepts, with particular attention to the doctrine that has to do with money. This matter can never be oversimplified because it carries weighty implications for the soul.

Another area of major concern for believers is the fact that we would be out of place in seeking to correct the ills of society while at the same time upholding religious practices that are just as evil and carnal as many of those practiced by the unsaved. Before we analyze and pass judgement on society’s behaviour regarding its attitudes concerning prosperity and covetousness, the exercise will definitely be more profitable—for the church and the world—if we turn the focus on ourselves.

What should alarm all of us is the narrow gap that now exists between the practices and norms of the world and those of modern evangelicals. There was a time when the church, with vigour and resolute purpose, guarded against any semblance of worldliness or carnality from entering its ranks, especially in the area dealing with money. Today, the pendulum has swung in