Stop Hatin' on Joel Osteen

Posted by Scott Williams
101 Comments
June 4, 2008
Controversy | Love | The Church

joel.jpgI know that this may or may not be the most popular post; however I really don’t care.  I was thinking about this “One Prayer” series and how it is going to be really great for “The Church” and the body of Christ.  This is a great opportunity for us to set aside our denominational differences, personal preferences, he doesn’t do this, he doesn’t do that, I like this style, I don’t like what they do, he’s too this and they are too that’s aside; and really live out what it means to be a Disciple of Christ.

Here is the deal about Pastor Joel Osteen in my opinion; he is happy, uplifting, encouraging… and many people think that he doesn’t do enough of __________, or he is too ___________.  The bottom line is that he is the Senior Pastor of largest church in America and 7 million people from around the world watch him each week on television.  The next time you or someone decides to start hatin’ on Joel; remember that no one is perfect and nothing gets Satan more excited than Christ followers hatin’ on each other; especially the Senior Pastor of the largest ministry in America. I honestly hear far to many Christians, including ministry leaders hatin’ on Joel.

I will agree that Joel has a “Happy” message and it might not necessarily be my cup of tea; at the same time I will only speak well of him and others.  Stop Hatin’ on Joel Osteen!

Go ahead and fill up the comment box!

  • http://www.kevinbussey.com Kevin Bussey

    No hate here. I agree.

  • Sarah

    I disagree!!!!!

  • http://cindybeall.com Cindy Beall

    Good call, Scott.

  • http://cyndiakadisneyqueen.blogspot.com/ Cyndi

    Thank you for saying this.

  • http://rollmentalcamera.blogspot.com roger

    I have no problem with any pastor or church as long as they are real. If Joel could get the whole world listening about Jesus with his style then so be it. We are all in this fight togther

  • http://tentmakin.blogspot.com Kyle P.

    Isn’t it funny (or maybe not) that the Modern Church struggles with the same issues as the Early Church?

    Early Church: Paul or Apollos. (See 1 Corinthians 1:10-12)

    Modern Church: Osteen or (insert Pastor of choice here).

    Wish we could grow-up sometime in the near future.

  • http://thinkinginprogress.com jason

    You’re right about unity in the church Scott.

    I’m not an Osteen hater- however, Osteen’s gift of encouragement or the size of his ministry isn’t the real issue. It’s the prosperity gospel that he tends to preach.

    Even though I don’t believe that theology is in line with Scripture, I do appreciate the enthusiasm and warmth that Osteen exudes. That’s why people dig him. Contrast that with some of the theologians/pastors/leaders who may be biblically sound in doctrine but pricks in practice.

    As a Church, we need to combine solid, biblical truth with reckless love and compassion.

    1 Corinthians 13:2
    “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.”

    I like Osteen; I do believe he loves Jesus; but that aspect of his teaching is troubling.

  • http://dturn.wordpress.com david

    Amen!!

  • http://blog.johnotjen.com John Otjen

    Scott I am tracking with you. I for one love his mullet.

  • http://www.thinkvirtue.com SolShine7

    Nicely said.

  • http://steveharrison1.blogspot.com/ steve harrison

    Well said Scott! We need to not just stop hatin on Joel, other pastors, other christians, ministries, etc. but as Christ followers we need to speak well of all, no gossip and no hatin on others! One together!

  • http://paravane.wordpress.com/ jimmy paravane

    I grew up DoC the first 12 years. From wikipedia; “The Disciples’ congregationally-governed local churches invite people to practice a simple faith that proclaims Jesus Christ and celebrates the freedom as Jesus’ disciples to explore God’s call to his people to love and to serve.”
    That doesn’t sound like a bad thing. But if you can’t hate on Joel Osteen, who can you hate on? I mean cmon! (grin)

  • http://ichilly.typepad.com Chilly

    Who’s Joel Osteen? And, does he blog?
    – Hmmm, I’ll see what wikipedia says…

  • http://www.dustytakle.com Dusty

    Well said and agreed!

  • http://www.michaelandrewjones.com Mike Jones

    I agree with you Scott.

  • http://www.sarahknief.wordpress.com Sarah Knief

    I still disagree Scott…and yes that was me that commented above. Here is my question for you…what does it mean to be unified? And does Joel Olsteen preach TRUE unity? To me true unity is found in CHRIST and TRUTH which is found in the word. Everything that I have studied and read of Joel Olsteen shows me that he is a great encourager, teacher, and pastor. But is his teaching TRUTH and is that TRUTH centered in Christ? I find his messages very encouraging but I have to ask does that matter? I can honestly go to a self help book and find the same advice. Does it point me to Christ that is the most important question?

    Unity to me is great and it is something to be strived for…but sometimes TRUTH divides!!!!

  • JulieRK

    Good for you Scott! Many people that criticize Joel only do so because of what they read on hate-filled blogs from what I’ve seen. They are blind followers of the hate crowd. They’ve never been to the church, never even heard an entire message from him. I would venture to say that out of the millions of people who watch him, perhaps a handful – just a handful now – have accepted Christ during his salvation call at the end of each television program.

    Sarah, how many people have you led to Christ?

    I also don’t understand the prosperity criticsm – doesn’t God want everyone to prosper wherever they are in life – in family, in our marriages, in our jobs? I’ve never heard him preach about being rich. Preaching about being Blessed, yes. Is being Blessed not a biblical principal? If you’re a saleperson, don’t you pray to get that big client, or to get promoted in your job, or for that great deal on a car or house – or hold on to your hat now, for health! Oh, oh! I’m preaching health and wealth.

  • akajoelosteen

    I doubt people hate me. I am not sure hate really exists.

    I just preach what I am gifted at and that is happiness. The God of the New Testament was not grumpy like in the Old, and he just wants us to know who we are and to be happy and prosperous.

    Life should be fun and we should be positive.

    God bless One Prayer; may it succeed in abundance.

    • Bob Brent

      Seriously? Are you saying there are two different Gods One in the OT and One in the NT? And does God get grumpy? Come on, Joel,even if that’s a joke we need to be careful how we speak.

      God bless you and your lovely family,
      Bob

  • http://jaycurlee.blogspot.com Jason Curlee

    Great post Scott…it amazing…Joel is ultimately being himself and allowing God to use him just the way he is. Reality is that Joel was a behind the scenes guy for his Dad’s ministry and was really reluctant and unsure of leading the church. It is amazing how God has used him.

    I had the privilege of working on staff for his brother-in-law in Victoria at Faith Family Church. I got to meet Joel and can honestly say he is one of the most humble and down to earth people I’ve met. In fact more so than almost any other Pastor I have met.

    He is doing it the way he knows how….and GOD IS USING HIM MIGHTILY….despite what others say about him or his “theology”. All I have to say is when God uses you that much…maybe then you have a right to say anything.

  • http://paravane.wordpress.com/ jimmy paravane

    akajoelosteen,
    yeah but, the God of the Old Testament could beat the snot out of the God of the New Testament. I’m just saying. (grin)

  • http://jthelmsdeep.blogspot.com Joseph

    Scott, I agree with your post. As long as we preach Christ and Him crucified, we are on the same team. Who are we to decide whether another man’s “style” is in line with the Scriptures? Isn’t that why the Bible says that if the whole Body were an eye, where would the sense of smell come from? I for one am truly grateful for men like Joel Osteen, amongst myriad other people who are doing what I can’t, and reaching many more for Christ. I’ve found in my experience that the ones who criticize the loudest, are usually doing the least.

  • http://www.turkeycreekchurch.org Jeremy

    I wish Joel had joined OnePrayer!!! Could you imagine the impact, the recruitment and the controversy!! I know that his style and church are built off of his personality and style and might fly, but I can’t resist thinking about the impact. Nevertheless, OnePrayer is by far the greatest global unification move ever! I believe that it has more potential than most denominational initiatives. (Yes I belong to one and have spent lots of time witnessing the great effect many denoms can have). OnePrayer rocks. I was shocked to see so many of the churches in my denom involved, including our largest church. Thanks

  • Mike

    Scott,

    With all due respect, so what if it’s the biggest church in America?

    The policy of “only speaking well of others” just sounds like an excuse to not confront bad teaching. Open rebuke is better than hidden love. To be critical of Joel’s preaching is not necessarily a ploy of Satan. It’s perfectly Biblical to give caution to the body of Christ about bad teaching, even if it means calling somebody out by name. It’s loving. Paul did it. Satan disguises himself as an angel of light; shouldn’t we be warning the true believers about error? Or, do we just not study our bibles enough?

    I don’t know Joel Osteen’s heart before God. I give him the benefit of the doubt as a brother. The problem with Joel is that he doesn’t like to talk about sin. He’s gone on record admitting that. I seriously doubt that the gospel of self-esteem does any lasting good in those precious peoples’ lives.

    You can’t be truly uplifting until you show people their heinous offenses against a holy God, show them that they deserve to bear the full force of His righteous fury, and show them of their utter hopelessness to remedy themselves. (Everyone knows they’re not perfect, but not everyone realizes this). Only then will people truly turn to Christ and be set free from the bondages of their sin. Hallelujah!

    Narrow is the path and difficult is the way that leads to life, and few find it (Matt. 7:13,14)…

    Mike

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery

    I agree Scott…

    Let’s stop hating on Joel Osteen…

    Let’s tell him the truth…

    He’s a great motivational speaker… right up there with Oprah and Tony Robbins, who have effected millions of lives…

    A pastor/teacher … well that’s another story… pastor’s tend to the flock… they keep them… they lead them… they protect them…they train them in God’s word, and the ability to discern truth from error…

    The whole “one prayer” thing from John 17 says… ” sanctify them by the truth, your word is truth”… Jesus prays after praying that they will be one with the Father by believing in the message of truth…

    So yes I agree we should stop hating on Joel… and tell him the truth…

    I define love, as “rejoicing with truth”… as 1 Cor 13 says…

    Joel has repeatedly claimed that he believes some other people’s and religion’s “ways” to heaven will get them there…

    Sorry Joel that’s not what Jesus said… maybe you didn’t know that… Romans 10:13-15

    Joel your a nice guy, and I love you, so I’ll tell you the truth… and you’ll realize that on the last day…that it was motivated by love as the scripture says… “Proverbs 27:5-7 (Better is open rebuke than hidden love.

    Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. “)

    Hey remember Judas, who betrayed his master with a kiss? Not all kisses and hugs are expressions of love… some of those have selfish motives behind it…

    For those of you who are “hatin” on Joel, by pretending to be loving to him, and helping keep him and his followers in deception… well I love you too… but stop hatin’ on Joel… tell him the truth…

    I know not everyone can discern… and some of you won’t get why so many people call some of the things Joel Osteen teaches heresy, and false teachings… but those statements are true…

    Uh oh… now’s the real test… will you also speak only well of me, even though I don’t pastor a ten thousand man church, and may have said something you don’t like…

    Let’s see?

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery

    Also let’s define hate biblically…

    Hate: the desire to see another’s death… or murder…

    If we know people who do not respond to truth will die eternally, and we know the truth, but do not tell them… we want to see them dead… its easier than being rejected…

    That’s hate… biblically… to know what’s right, and not do it to the demise of another, because of fear of rejection…

    Love, especially the love of Christ overcomes this fear…

    There is no fear in love, perfect love casts out fear!

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery
  • http://www.unveilinghope.com Hope

    I like Joel Osteen. Whether he doesn’t preach this or that will be judged by God, not by man. Love others as yourself, right. We tend to make a lot of assumptions – what makes people think that all the flock of 7 million are not enlightened by the Spirit when they read the bible and are filled with the truth? Didn’t Jesus say “I will send you a helper that will teach you ALL things?” I’m just sayin’.

  • JulieRK

    Avery,

    Your posting doesn’t makes sense, in fact it is rather strange.
    Anyway, your comment
    “… pastor’s tend to the flock… they keep them… they lead them… they protect them…they train them in God’s word, and the ability to discern truth from error…”

    Joel does all this, his flock is just bigger – oh the horrors.

    Avery, you are being dishonest (or perhaps just believing what you hear).

    I.e. “Joel has repeatedly claimed that he believes some other people’s and religion’s “ways” to heaven will get them there…”

    What? Where has he ever said this?? And, don’t say Larry King, please that is old news (like 3 years old). What Joel said is that he doesn’t judge other people’s hearts, that is for God to decide. And, he went on Larry King twice after that explaining himself! So, please lighten up!

    p.s. Maybe it’s me, but your kisses and hugs analogy is just plain weird.

  • http://jaycurlee.blogspot.com Jason Curlee

    I agree JulieRK…I know for a fact that is not what Joel believes…

    It is amazing that so many people seem to speak out in judgement and have no problem with that…yet blast Joel how he does things…

    I’m kind of wondering…which is the greater…standing in judgment or allowing God to work through you and being how you are.

  • Scott Williams

    Interesting commentary!

    I just want to clarify that hatin’ is not the same as hate. According to the urban dictionary hatin’ is defined as: Sayin bad things about or puttin someone down. This can be for various reasons: because they have something that you want, or you think you know what they are all about, a player hater.

  • http://sheriyates.blogspot.com sheri

    Most of us need to learn from Joel’s JOY!! It rubs off on others! :O)

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery

    Like I said… not everyone will get it…not everyone can discern…

    That is what the gifts are for…popular gifts are welcomed, and unpopular ones are frowned upon… I have the reproach of an unpopular one…

    Pastor/teachers are gifted at leading the flock, protecting them, etc…

    I posted some videos, but they got moderated out… one is a video of Joel saying he believes Mormon’s worship the same Jesus…

    Misunderstanding is one thing, but a pastor who can’t discern the difference from false teaching and real teaching?

    You can’t judge a person’s heart… but you can discern from their fruit, and their teachings what jesus they serve…

    Sorry that you didn’t like what I said.. or thought it was weird…

    At least I didn’t tell everyone something like they have to eat my flesh and drink my blood to enter the kingdom of heaven…

  • Scott Williams

    Avery- not sure about videos, they definitely were not moderated out! :-)
    You might try linking them again.

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery

    Scott… you might check your spam queue…

    sometimes when more than one hyperlink is posted it goes in the spam queue…

    When I come to this post it says “your comment is in moderation… or maybe your designer put in an automatic filter…

    I figured that’s probably what happened… Look in your askimet “spam” filter in your WP admin, I bet that comment is in there waiting to be moderated…

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery

    That did it…

  • Mike

    Well then per the urban dictionary, I don’t think anyone’s “hatin’” Joel Osteen here. It’s one thing to disrespect him as a human being. It’s another thing to criticize his teaching. That’s a distinction I think we’re having a hard time with.

    Avery made some great points. Joel Osteen is probably the nicest man on TBN, but his lack of discernment is extremely troubling.

    Again, if the rule is to “only speak well of others”, how can you confront bad teaching? (example: What if someone wants your thoughts on Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church?)

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery

    Exactly Mike…

    Those Westoboro guys need some truth too…

    Joel is probably the nicest preacher I have ever heard or listened to…

    Simon Magus (who is in the scriptures) Peter and Paul rebuked openly.. as they did Alexander and Hermaneus…so it is clear by example, sometimes we can’t always speak well of others…

    It is always possible to speak well of someone, but it isn’t always scriptural…

    Joel the person is probably someone I would choose as a friend… but as a pastor… he needs some encouragement and admonishment…and guidance before teaching some of the things that he is teaching… it isn’t a preference issue, it is about obedience… and growing, and who doesn’t want another Christian to grow?

    Think of it this way…

    If you only gave a baby Dr. Pepper, the baby would die… and shrivel away…

    Babies need milk… not just sugar water… they need guidance and admonishment…

    That is why Peter said:

    “Desire the pure milk of the word by which you will grow…”

    Not all parts of the word of God are pleasant… some parts are a rebuke, and admonishments…but all scripture is God breathed and useful for training in righteousness…

    Sometimes parents, fathers, and leaders need to admonish one another…

    No hate here… I thank God for a huge assembly… my desire is that that assembly will grow to the full stature of maturity…and for that we all need all of the gifts until we all reach Ephesians 4…

    Satan would have us drinking sugar water all day… until our faith would shrivel up and die..

  • What about

    Ovary

    You are amazing, so much knowledge, so much discernment, so much truth, I am sure Joel could use a few minutes with you. I am sure he has no idea he is screwing things up like he is. I am sure what he is doing is not intentional I mean if it was based on what you have just taught me he would be like a demon or something misleading millions of people.

    I am sure he is not intentionally trying to impact a world full of people who are so freaking defeated in their lives that they can’t even believe, understand, or accept the love of Christ. I am sure he has not motivated a single person to open their bible, I am sure none of his “flock” realize they have sin in their lives. I am sure the Holy Spirit is not at work within them because there is no way they are truly born again saints, they go to a church led by a man who does not teach the full gospel.

    I mean what the heck is God up to allowing a ministry as jacked up as Joel’s to reach into the living rooms of so many?!!! Ovary, please start a church and fix all of this because whoever is driving the bus seems to be asleep at the wheel!

  • http://www.knowgreaterlove.org/wordpress1 Avery

    Hey What About… I get it… you don’t like what I said…

    You changed up my nickname… (see I knew you had it in you)…

    I know a lot of people don’t take some things serious…

    Here’s a couple of scriptures for you to ponder…and ask yourself why the apostles felt these things were important enough to have read before the whole church…

    #1 A woman was following behind two apostles saying “Listen to these men, they are from God”…(Acts 16:16-18)

    Those Apostles cast a demon out from her…

    #2 A man named Simon was known as the “power of God”, prior to the apostles coming to town… and he listened and hung out with them… Peter looked into his eyes, and told him (discerning in the Spirit) that this man was a child of the Devil… (Acts 8:9-24)

    #3 The Apostles warned that men would come in and “secretly introduce destructive heresies”… to be on the watch…(2Peter2)

    #4 Each one of the Apostles, and their followers were mocked, chastised, and of the original twelve 11 were martyred, some lost their heads, were sawed in two, crucified, beaten many times, and persecuted… so obviously some of things they taught and said were not exactly what some people wanted to hear, or accepted…

    #5 The leader of an early movement known as “Gnosticism” was Simon Magus, the same man who Peter said was a child of the devil… and those churches grew in popularity constantly, while the Apostles were mocked by them and persecuted…

    So What About…

    Do you love Jesus enough to believe His warnings, and teachings even if it costs you personal reputation, beheading, mockery, loss of everything…?

    What About, do you love Jesus enough to pastor a church and teach them things that they may not like, some things that are hard though it may cost you members, personal reputation, or relationships?

    Were not talking about salvation… that isn’t the issue… people will get saved regardless of what church they go to… that’s God’s business… but the cost of discipleship is high … ?

    Its not personal… its not about Joel… its about Jesus…

    Here’s a video link you might find interesting…from a man whose teaching is faithful… his name is Mark Driscoll:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IuiUOapK1w

    What About, I know you don’t like me, or what I am saying… I am not that wise, or anyone to lead or teach anyone else… I am just a man that loves Jesus… and find wisdom in Him, His words, and His ways… my plea isn’t listen to me… but listen to Jesus… and follow those who are gifted at listening to Jesus, such as His Gifted Pastors, and Teachers… because there are many that claim to speak for Him, and claim to be His servants, and even agree with What He says through those He sends… but they serve themselves… not Jesus..

    You can make up your own mind What About, because God gave you that ability… and the freedom in this nation to do so…

    All I can do is point… towards Jesus… and His ways…

    I know that each time I speak compelled of the Spirit of God, you return insult and mockery to me…

    May God bless you richly, even though you disagree… and I hope that you grow in spite of the things I have said that may anger you… God is good that way…

    Forgive me if my own humanity has gotten in the way.. I don’t intend to anger anyone or judge anyone, but just to serve Jesus and tell the truth as He commands me, and I desire out of love and gratitude for Him…

  • joy

    re: joel and victoria. I was sure that they were separating/divorcing. Didn’t i see that on larry king???

  • http://jameyjohnson.org jamey johnson

    Christian haters…I do believe I have met some before, and I have to admit I have been a “hater” before as well (not about Joel-I dig Joel), but with others.

  • What about

    Again thank you for the enlightening information. So glad you could attach a link to a real pastor one who is faithful I know Mr. Driscoll…I love pastors who spend time from their pulpit putting down another pastor…in the counseling world they call this tearing others down to build yourself up…do you think Mark is building Joel up here or tearing him down…know he doesn’t care about the success of his books or church…Mark doesn’t have a competitive bone in his body. Again thank you for teaching me that Joel is a false teacher similar to Simon Magus, a child of the devil. You continue to amaze me with your insight.

    Or do you amaze me with your self righteousness and know it all attitude veiled by a false humility? Not once in any of our conversations have I questioned your faith as you have now mine. What I have tried to do is to get you look deeper within yourself and the way you respond to others who have dissenting opinions.

    You are so confident that you have it right, that you have it figured out. Do you ever think and question or do you always know? The latter of the two speaks of pride and is the exact kind of behavior that drives unbelievers away from Jesus …who I do agree with you its all about! In all of the blogs I read which is quite a few your posts are in the top 1% for length … could that be prideful?

    Since you have given me some suggested reading I would like to suggest two books to you Tim Keller’s http://www.thereasonforgod.com/ in “my opinion” a faithful teacher and then also David Kinnaman’s https://www.unchristian.com/ . I think you would benefit from reading these. Be careful though these might make you think?

  • http://knowgreaterlove.org Avery

    Thanks What About I will look at those links!

  • http://bigisthenewsmall.com Scott Williams

    Hmmmmm! Good Discussion…. What About~ Glad to see you commenting again!

  • Pingback: Big Is The New Small - Stop Hatin’ On Joel Osteen (The Sequel)

  • http://mcalvitti.blogspot.com misti

    I was told as a teenager, to never trust some one who smiles to much. That still carries on to my adult life.

  • JUDY

    Misti, why is smiling wrong and not to be trusted? Scott, your last post comments seem to be by people that rarely listen to Joel…hope your blog doesn’t turn into a place for people to bash Joel….do you know Joel personally :)

  • http://mcalvitti.blogspot.com misti

    I have no idea – i just heard it as a teenager and it just stickes with me. So, if i see some one who smiles a lot, i get nervous and have to really get to know them before i believe what they say. (i think a close family memeber told me this and i have believed it my entire life!)

    I do not have problem with Joel I have watched programs about him and he seems to be a great father and husband, i just have a hard time trusting him b/c he smiles too much – for my taste. A personal opinion – that is all.

  • JUDY

    That is very interesting Misti…thanks for responding

  • Mike

    Joel is a classic Word of Faith preacher. Such “name it and claim it” doctrine is deceptive and demonic.

    His messages are almost always to the tune of “God wants us to prosper and live in victory…” How? Materially? Spiritually? Please elaborate, Joel.

    What? God wants me to get that promotion at work? Go tell that to my wife whose job became worse when her homosexual boss found out she was a new Christian.

    And no, it wasn’t because she didn’t have enough faith. She had enough faith to stand up for her Lord and Savior.

    “Your best life now?” Maybe for non-Christians.

  • http://www.dustytakle.com Dusty

    Yikes, Mike. While I don’t preach PROSPERITY! PROSPERITY! I’m certainly careful the words I speak over my life and the lives of others.

    Demonic? Really. That thought alone is deception.

    I don’t buy into some “prosperity message.” I buy into the Word of the living God who says I’m the head and not the tail. I buy into rejoice not my enemy for when I fall I shall rise again. I buy into He that began a good work will be faithful to complete it. I buy into upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it. I buy into the Lord, expand my territory like Jabez did. I buy into He heals my diseases. I buy into a God who is the author and finisher of our faith.

    I have never seen the righteous forsaken or a seed out begging for bread. I have not always had the easiest of times. My husband left me when I was pregnant 7 years ago. I’ve seen despair. I’ve seen heartache. But, I have never seen God not prevail and turn the darkest period of my life into something wonderful.

    I believe in the power of prayer. And even during that dark time in my life, I continued to live MY BEST LIFE because I knew I was still in the arms of a Savior.

  • Mike

    We can definitely experience unwavering joy and freedom in Christ now.

    My point is: in comparison to the life in eternity that awaits those who trust in Him–the life where we no longer live in unredeemed flesh or in the presence of sin–this is our worst life now.

    A close study of the Word of Faith movement will reveal that it elevates the power of man and lowers the sovereignty of God. That is, that God HAS TO act upon our words when spoken “in faith”.

    Another caution lies in that Joel’s statements–which are usually not clarified–are often ambiguous and misconstrued by people with no working knowledge of Scripture. This is where preaching with clarity and being specific are so important.

    Lord Jesus, come quickly!!!

  • http://aubreysanchez.com Aubrey Sanchez

    This is a vid that my pastor did with Joel Osteen. Funny and a good message.

  • http://www.journeytolive.com Patrick Scott

    Each of us our have different gifts that are purposely given by God for the enrichment of the church as well as a tool to reach the lost. I do not want this to be about Joel but about us all. If we do not ground those gifts in the Truth of God then they are being wasted. Satan is the master of confusion and in this confusing world our only hope for discernment is the Word of God and the Holy Spirit.

    We cannot accept someone is teaching Truth by the number of people that follow them. We only can know if it is Truth by our own pursuit of Truth through the Word of God. The fact is that our nourishment should be found in the Word and not from the mouths of another human being. I am afraid that too many today are just receiving their nourishment from books or from speakers that make us feel good, or give us some enlightening fact we didnt know before. It is okay to read and listen to others but if that is it, and we are not measuring against the Word, then we are complete fools.

    There is nothing wrong with challenging someones teaching. If I was teaching I would want to be challenged, especially if someone thought it not to be true.

  • http://peopleofthunder.tv PeopleofThunder

    I don’t mince words as well as A.W. tozer, (called the prophetic voice of the 20th Century)…

    Tozer vs. Osteen:

    One hundred worshipers meeting together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be were they to become “unity” conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship.

    “God may allow His servant to succeed when He has disciplined him to a point where he does not need to succeed to be happy. The man who is elated by success and is cast down by failure is still a carnal man. At best his fruit will have a worm in it.”

    “One hundred religious persons knit into a unity by careful organizations do not constitute a church any more than eleven dead men make a football team. The first requisite is life, always.”

    “The vague and tenuous hope that God is too kind to punish the ungodly has become a deadly opiate for the consciences of millions.”

  • http://www.twitter.com/mburleson Mark

    Don’t have a lot of time to respond fully right now, but maybe in a bit.

    Mike,

    your synopsis of Word of Faith I find quite wrong. Having grown up in the Word of Faith environment, yes there are those who are unbalanced and those seem to be the ones everyone sees, but the core isn’t an unbalanced message.

    I would venture to ask you, if something is in the Bible, say salvation, does God have to act upon what he says he will do? Or is it predestination? Where only those who God predestines are allowed into Heaven and into full right standing with God depending on his sovereign will?

  • JUDY

    Once again I am afraid Mike listens to what people say about Joel and I would be interested as to how many actual sermons, and it would take MANY to judge the man, that Mike has heard first hand….this is serious stuff

  • http://www.journeytolive.com Patrick Scott

    Challenge with the Word of God and not assumptions. How does the Word of God, say Mike is right or wrong? How does the Word of God say Joel is right or wrong?

    Judgment was not cast on Joel but on Joel’s teaching. Anytime you allow yourself to be placed in the public forum, your comments will be watched and critiqued. Just because Joel is a man of God does not mean that he cant be held accountable. Some people on here like to make assumptions that have no credibility but there are others that have made solid statements of belief on here that do have credit because their line of thought shows that they have studied and researched.

    Again I would hope if I am wrong people would challenge me with the Word so we could talk about it together.

  • Scott Williams

    Judy and others my intent of this post was to encourage people to stop hatin’ if you will and speak love. You can have whatever feelings you want to… I dig the life giving nature of stuff.

    God is love… Rev. Scott!

  • http://www.twitter.com/mburleson Mark

    agreed =]

    you rock scott!

  • JUDY

    All I can say is I hope nothing ever takes the smile from Joel’s face…keep pushing love Scott!

  • http://menonpurpose.com bert boan

    Craig Groeschel calls him a good friend. That tells me I don’t know the full story about Joel. When he said that I quit speculating.

  • Mike

    Scott – how’s your hypothesis holding up? :)

    To all,

    Here’s a critique of Joel by Mark Driscoll. Discern for yourself.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IuiUOapK1w

    I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path. — Psalm 119:104, NIV

    Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth — 1 Corinthians 13:6, NIV

  • http://peopleofthunder.tv PeopleofThunder

    There was a prophet named Micaiah…

    He was unpopular… because he only preached what God told him to…

    3000 prophets prophesied what the kings wanted to hear, and they were loved by the people…

    they promised prosperity, they promised success, they promised God’s blessing…

    Micaiah promised only what God promised the kings… that they would perish because of their wickedness…

    On the day that what God said would come to pass… who do you think the people loved then?

    You can read about Micaiah in 1Kings 22…

    I’ll take one Micaiah over a thousand people pleasing false prophets, even if the whole world loves their message…

    Micaiah’s message is from God, and for my own good…
    The lying prophets message is also from God (according to 1Kings22), and is for judgment?

    Who can discern the difference, and how?

  • Jody Monroe

    I love Joel & Victoria Osteen and their positive messages. It's great to watch during the week. However, not SUNDAY A.M. stuff as I never see him teach from the Bible, or read it with his messages. A good supplment but not solid food.

  • Alesia

    Scott thank you for breaking down the definition of hatin/hate. The word states in 1 Chronicles 16:22. Touch not mine anointed and do my prophets no harm. I say that to say we so often find fault on others who are doing what god has called them too do. Please lets check out lives out and make sure we are a lined in gods word. Your required to study and know the word for yourself and never depend on what anyone teaches/preaches.

  • Fruit

    No one is hating on him. We are just agianst him because he decieves like many post modern pastors today. HE is a fals-prophet and that is all there is to it. If you read the Bible and than listen to Joel I don’t see how you can relate the two. He preaches a completely seperate message that is the opposite of the authority of the word. God’s message is nothing like Joel’s. It is important to examine the word. It is important to make sure you are listening to the pastor closely because false prophets can be anyone. You should not just trust him because he has a nice smile. You should be aware of your foundations in Christ. You should also be aware of his. When I say foundations I am not saying what are your morals but your belief in the word and the foudations it gives you (Absolutes if you will). Listen to Joel, he has no foundations just pure human reason and philosophy. This is not the word of God. Sure he backs up his reason with pieces of the gospel but if you really read the book in which the apostles wrote the letters you would see that is not what they meant.

  • Gordon
  • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTc_FoELt8s Charley

    I know little about Joel Osteen. If he is preaching the gospel Paul preached, if he is preaching justification by faith alone, then I guess I should have little problem with him. However, if he is preaching another gospel then he should be denounced. Paul’s instructions to young Timothy were exactly that.

    I have heard it said that all roads lead to God. Then I heard the Preachers rise up saying “Oh no! they don’t…” Then it dawned on me, “Oh yes they do – straight the Judgment Seat where He sits as Judge”. All roads do lead straight to our Lord. Unfortunately, for the majority, they don’t all lead to Heaven. Only that obscure little narrow road marked with the sign saying “I am the way…” leads to our salvation.

    Concerning prosperity, John Piper sums it up best…
    YouTube search
    John Piper properity gospel

  • verdell

    good word. we may have our preferences, but joel isn’t doing anything blatantly wrong. let’s pray for his continued influence on the lives of people for Christ.

  • Scott Williams

    We are in year two of the #OnePrayer Series and I was reflecting on peoples thoughts a year ago! Hmmm

  • http://www.verticalfix.com lisabirch

    wow, this was heated! i’m quite familiar with who Joel is, but I’ve only experienced some of his messages. i say, just pray for Joel as a pastor and a man. I don’t prefer the style of many preachers, but I’m intentional about not bashing or judging them. It’s often easier to bash or judge another than it is to earnestly pray for him. As Christ followers that’s our duty. Joel is not perfect. No man or pastor is. Even the most “on-point” pastors mentioned in these comments should not be put on a pedestal. If we pray for Joel sincerely, he will grow in those areas he needs growth. but no one can ever deny the kingdom accomplishments of Pastor Joel Osteen.

  • kathryneast

    Check out Joel Osteen’s interview with Larry King. His comments were so indirect and watered down that Larry King had to ask him if there was, indeed, an actual place called hell.

    I love him, but I hope he’s repented since then and started preaching the true gospel, that Jesus is the ONLY way to heaven.

  • christiecro

    Here are helpful links for those who “like” Joel and think he’s harmless. Also some info on a few others who preach the same message (Christianity in Crisis) Sorry Scott, I respectfully disagree on the subject of Joel Osteen. I do, however, greatly respect Hank Hanegraaff and the ministry of equip.org and The Bible Answerman broadcast.

    http://www.equip.org/articles/become-a-better-you-seven-keys-to-improving-your-life-everyday

    http://www.equip.org/articles/christianity-still-in-crisis-

  • truthspeak

    You all don’t understand. Joel Osteen is a sweet, nice guy with a positive message, sure. But he does not preach Christ and Him crucified. It’s about the gospel, not “hatin’ on Joel.”

  • christiecro

    Amen truthspeak. The links I posted back it up. Sweet and nice and positive aren’t enough. Truth and accuracy are essential.

  • http://ricardo33ad.blogspot.com/ Ricardo33AD

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFcVLs__5hw&feature=related
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfwYU2pmWYQ

    Together these 2 interviews give a picture of someone who just hasn’t studied enough to have a proper biblical perspective.

    I am afraid for the thousands of people who watch a Pastor who has not even studied the religions of the culture we live in enough to know whether they are consistent with Christianity or not. Osteen said in the videos linked that he has not studied Mormonism but “think based on what he has heard that they are Christians.” He insinuates that the God’s of other religions(in India) might be the same God of Christianity.

    I have no problem wishing in print that he were more accountable to preach a well-rounded message that teaches potential disciples to, as Jesus put it, “first count the cost.” Joy and peace aren’t all there is to being a disciple.

    We live in an entertainment-filled self-focused culture that conditions us to want to hear a message that does not include persecution or suffering. I have watched Osteen and read his book. That is exactly what’s fuzzy or missing in his preaching.

    I’m also fearful when I hear christians tacitly justify the message by the number of followers. The validity of Osteen message is not ever determined by who receives it or how many.

    It relies on whether it is the rightly studied and shared word of God..I hope.

    As a discipler I have no problem with people critically weighing and dissecting what I teach, when I do, and trying it by Spirit in the context of the Bible as truth. In fact I teach people to find out for themselves and not to just rely on what they have heard…even about other religions.

    The subtle message that could be gained from this post is to not criticize other christians. I agree. But TEAR APART their message if it is false or misleading.

  • Truth hurts

    Truth is people will continue to argue, discussion, fuss & cuss over someone like olsteen. Although I have my opinions about the man I shall keep them to myself. I will say in this day and age false teaching and preaching is going to be spread rapid throughout our home, city, state and nation. I know it might not be fruitful for me to stand and debate those false teachings however I can do this to my children and my wife and I will not allow false teaching to be spread in our house. I believe when Jesus comes back the false teachers will then be told what is truth and untruth.

  • http://www.fayebryant.com Faye

    Jeremiah delivered messages against the priests and prophets of his time. He blatantly told them they were leading God’s people astray. He called them — with God’s leading — out for their behavior.

    Just another example that we are to, when led by God, call someone on their teaching, behavior, etc. We are still held to the mandate that we don’t judge the motives of their heart. We just don’t get to do that. That’s Jesus’ job, and I for one don’t want to take that one on — even though I do from time to time.

    I’d love to sit down with Mr. Osteen and talk. I’ll make the fried chicken dinner and bring the sweet tea. I would want to chat over dinner and get to know him and his wife. After dinner, I would want to hit some hard topics. I’d want to hear what he truly believes about what I’ve heard him preach. I’d want to hear his heart.

    If I felt the urging of the Holy Spirit to speak truth or correction to him, I would do so. When our talk was all said and done, I’d pray with him and pass the dessert and coffee. We can disagree without being disagreeable. I can even share some hard truth with him or anyone and still love the hound out of them. That’s the love of God in me, through me.

    And while I may not agree with Mr. Osteen’s preaching, he holds a large audience captive with his words week in and week out. So has Robert Schuller and others. Jesus said it simply, lift Him up, HE will do the work of drawing all men to Himself. Then as his departing words, he told us to grow disciples. He didn’t say, evangelize (though that’s a duh, can’t disciple till they know Him). He said, “make disciples”.

    Hmm, so maybe I need to be about my Father’s business after that dinner I cook for Mr. Osteen. I’ve got some students and women and homeless people counting on me to bring them truth and life changing words.

    Thanks, Scott for bringing a topic back to light.

  • doog71

    I don’t think most Christians who have big disagreements with Joel Osteen “hate on” HIM, but rather his almost non-existent mentioning of sin, repentance, etc. You can’t be a pastor and not consistently, and fully, explain the Gospel.

    • O. Campbell

      Now this is what i’m talking about. Joel is not being “hated on” as you put it Scott. The man need to preach the truth and the WHOLE truth. I am just seeing this post based on a blog u wrote for SF Daily Devotional. It’s now 2011 and if you got to see his interview on “The View” and “Larry King” then maybe you would change ur opinion. We need to stop assuming persons are hating (although some maybe doing that) and start to ensure that the FULL GOSPEL is given to people. None, i repeat NONE are perfect but that doesn’t excuse us from leaving out vital info just to tickle the ears IMO…

  • http://identityspecialist.wordpress.com lemUSITA

    Thanks for the post. At the end of the day, God is blessing that place, and who are we to judge. THanks for the reminder.

  • http://itsmessy.wordpress.com Steve Patton

    I had this conversation with a friend of mine recently. The issue I have with Joel Osteen, is that his message isn’t pastoral. Is he encouraging? Sure. Does he make people feel good? Probably. But that’s not the primary call of the senior pastor of a local church. And when I hear a guy say “I don’t talk about sin, the cross or hell” then how can we say he’s preaching the gospel? Without the death, burial and ressurection of Jesus for our sins to save us from the hell we deserve, then what IS the good news? That we can be happy? I can get that from Tony Robbins’ teachings. Shoot, I can get that from a rap album.

    What he has built has taken great leadership, skill and many other admirable qualities. No doubt about that. But when a pastor simply (his words not mine) considers himself a “life coach”, I don’t hate but I carry great concern.

  • http://www.thischangesnothing.com totai

    “In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity.”

    When it comes to matters of denominational difference, much of those nuances are “non-essential”, but for many the differences are essential (thus the perceived need for a different denomination).

    I spent many years as a member and leader in a church whose pastor was a Rhema Bible School grad (Kenneth Hagin’s organization). My pastor considered John Osteen (Joel’s dad) his own pastor. In fact, this pastor taught and recorded an entire series from the pulpit of John’s Houston-based church long before Joel was even considering ministry.

    It was this same “style” of charismatic (in the personality sense) that kept me looped in with that church for so long. Many of the people are still very dear to my heart.

    Unfortunately, behind the smiles and the “encouraging” messages of the “word of Faith” or “prosperity gospel” is an age old myth. The myth that richer and healthier equal holiness or peace with God the Creator. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day believed that one’s wealth was directly connected to their ability to keep God’s commandments. In their teaching, if someone was sick or diseased it was directly the result of sin (John 9:3, Mark 2:1-12).

    But eventually life catches up with people. I have seen it happen in the lives of friends who lost their 3 year old son when he choked on a ball bearing (they had already lost one child to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome a few years earlier). I have seen it happen when a woman in the church was publicly humiliated because of her husband’s indiscretions, which were soon overlooked because he was “blessed” with the ability to lead worship. I have seen it happen with my own wife who was born with a degenerative eye condition that has rendered her blind and who was made to stand in front of a church trying to read a clock while everyone else was “standing in faith” believing with her, she wasn’t healed and was left feeling as if her own faith was somehow deficient, a result of something that was wrong with her, a reminder that God somehow was not happy with her.

    You’re right, smiles and style should not be something that cause people to be critical, no matter how annoying. What is important however is the net result of the things Joel Osteen teaches, on those issues people should be very careful to “Test everything. Hold to the Good” 1 Thess.5:21.

    I challenge you to pick up a copy of “The Secret” and then a copy of “Your Best Life Now” and compare them both with some of the writings of E.W. Kenyon, the father of the Word of Faith movement, the same themes are all there. Joel has learned the art of persuasive communication, he is very talented. I am sure he is a great guy and he sincerely believes what he’s teaching (hey, it’s working for him). At the end of the day though, teaching people to measure the condition of their heart by the quality of their worldly circumstance is the worst possible burden you can place on someone. Unfortunately, we have been trained to believe that God is a commodity to be consumed, and therefore we want the best God possible for our best life now.

  • http://natchurldisaster.wordpress.com/ ChrisCambell

    I do think that the church tends to be a bit hypercritical, but that doesn’t mean we roll over and die in the face of falsehood. Now, I’m not saying anything in regards to whether or not Osteen is preaching truth or heresy because I’ve not done enough research. But I do think it’s helpful to remember the words of Martin Luther at this point, “Peace if possible, truth at all costs.” Christians need to be standing up and proclaiming the truth. If Osteen isn’t preaching that truth, he needs to be rebuked and challenged on that. It’s not very productive to sit around bashing them out of spite, but honestly critiquing a pastor/preacher/speaker is fine. Just make sure that love is at the center of it all.

  • http://scottmcqueen.blogspot.com Scott McQueen

    He may not be what I call a Pastor, or even a Bible Teacher for that matter. And I don’t see the whole counsel of God being taught there. But one thing I will say; if all my neighbors where like him I would be a much more godly man simply by osmosis.

  • poetic justice

    I love Pastor Joel and his lovely wife. They and their ministry are true assets to the body of Christ. If anyone hates them, they hate the thought of angels singing, full time worshipping and praising God, loving one another, streets of gold, etc. (ie Kingdom of God).

  • Pastor Joe

    Scott, I do not hate Joel Osteen. I love listening to some of his fathers old sermons. I am licensed with the Assemblies of God churches and I am kind of bothered by the message that Osteen preaches. I think he has a tremendous gift to encourage others and lead “self help” type messages. With that said I think he is flawed. Being Kingdom minded means we need to believe a few certain things: Jesus Christ as Son of God, Born of a Virgin, Sinless yet took all our sin upon himself, hung on a cross, died, put in a tomb, rose again after 3 days and coming back soon. One thing as a minister of the Gospel is that we must preach repentence, the absolute turning from sin. In order to preach repentence, we need to preach on sin, in order to preach on sin we must explain the Cross and Christ’s beatings. Joel Osteen, in the numerous times I watched him, never mentioned sin at all. I read through a few of his books and in one of them he used the term God, but not Jesus. Jesus is the name above all names. The Bible says we are to judge one another based upon our fruits, and while Osteen is leading people to Jesus, how can you get them to turn from sin if they do not know what sin is. I do not hate Joel Osteen, and I do not doubt that he loves God. What I do question is what he preaches theologically.

  • Pingback: Big Is The New Small - Stop Hatin’ On Other Pastors & Ministries!

  • Theclanofharris

    This statement by Olsteen, a coment he made in June shows how far h is of the mark when it comes to God’s word. He said “The God of the New Testament was not grumpy like in the Old, and he just wants us to know who we are and to be happy and prosperous.” The God of the OT and the NT are one and the same, God does not change. Yes he wants us to to be happy but in His salvton and the gift of eternal life. We can be happy here, I sure have been at many times but we live in a sinful world and things will happen that make us unhappy, like the death of a loved one or a loved one not knowing Christ as Lord and Master.
    As to prosperous, Christ did not mean wealth or power, Christ clearly states, blessed are the poor (not the rich). There is nothing wrong with be prosperous as long it is in the most inmport area, our faith. I do not hate Mr Olsteen but see him doing more good for the devil than for God.

  • Kenny E.

    I think most of Pastor Joel’s teachings are post modern new age self-help speak. He tickles peoples ears, and makes them feel good. I’ve heard him say on Larry King, that Christianity works for him and he can’t judge peoples heart (about going to hell) if they believe in another religion. Well if they say they don’t believe in Christ…well? We can’t judge a person’s heart if they say they are a Christian, not if they deny Him totally. He is so afraid to speak of sin and hell and the amazing redemption found through Christ’s sacrifice as being the only truth, and that bothers me. Sometimes, I think, the Gospel of Christ is hard for him to swallow. Isn’t the whole reason Jesus died so we can have a relationship with God. Why is that hard to nail down as THE truth for him and the world?

    I don’t think it’s wrong to weigh what people say with the Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17), but there are boundaries that some people cross. I don’t hate or even really dislike Pastor Joel, I just don’t agree with him. He is not a subject I ever bring up, usually only if people ask. I believe He is a Christian, and a very gentle hearted guy. But sometimes it seems he shrinks away from the whole truth. Heck, I pray God blesses him as he preaches God’s Word. I know I am not perfect, but I would want a loving individual to come up to me and help me be right with God if I am in ere.

    Am I wrong to think these things? (I’m honestly asking, not being sarcastic.)

    Ok, I went and found the Larry King excerpt.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwL1DThtxYg

  • http://stevenahill.com Steve Hill

    Christians get upset with Joel Osteen because they aren’t used to a pastor who does such a good job with marketing. Joel is absolutely brilliant and bringing people into church and if that means more people living in accordance more with what the Bible says than what the word says, more power to him. God’s still the judge over a person’s heart.

  • http://nw-aftergodsownheart@blogspot.com Naomi Whitaker

    I know nothing negative to even say about Joel Osteen. He is full of God’s Spirit which flows through him in a unique and supernaturally positive way. I wish I could have such a gift!

  • jimmy

    lost a little respect from this post. who did jesus get the most angry with while he was on earth? the religious people who were not teaching the truth…

    yes joel leads the largest church in america. one day maybe we will all find a better scale than church attendance. just saying.

  • Matt

    I’m incredibly disappointed in this post, sir. Joel Osteen preaches a prosperity gospel that has no part of the Bible in it. The prosperity gospel is a lie and there is no part of God in it. This man has taught that the more faith you have in Jesus, the wealthier you will be. If you have good, mature faith, God will give you good health and protect your family. Do you think that Paul would believe that? Paul was constantly being beat and thrown in jail for teaching the Gospel. If he was in pain, does that mean that Paul wasn’t mature in his faith? Do you think Stephen wasn’t being mature in his faith when he was stoned for spreading the Gospel? Do you think that the 11 disciples who were killed for spreading the Gospel were weak in their faith? Telling people that Jesus died to save us from poverty is a lie that has no place in the Church! Telling people in Africa and Asia and South America who are living in poverty that Jesus died to save them from their poverty neglects the truth of the Gospel. Joel Osteen is misleading people under the guise of Scripture. It is disgusting.

  • Andy prescott

    I fid this post a little unfortunate. I believe that we are supposed to talk around one another and build up brothers in the faith and not tare them down.
    I completed disagree that Joel fits that bill though. Keep in mind that even the demons know that Jesus I the son of God. They quote scripture better than Christians.
    In 1Tim1:3 Paul warns about false teachers who teach different doctrine. That is pretty black and white. In verses 8-11 we are continually exhorted to stay out of places where unsound doctrine is preached.
    Granted Osteen uses the name of Jesus in his sermons and sprinkles in vereses that help propagate the style of prosperity he is trying to peddle but that does not mean he is spouting correct doctrine. I can quote the constitution all day long but hat does not mean I know exactly what is means. And if I leave out crucial parts it will look completely different.
    If Joel would just acknowledge the fact that not everyone is going to have there best life now that some will receive healing in glory and not now, if he could weep through Hebrews 11:32-40 at the sacrafi e of these saints who laid it all down and did not count it as loss. They did not get rich or cared for in this life but oh how great there eternal reward. Or consider examples like David Brainerd who died at 29 of TB carrying the gospel to native Americans and had nohing to show for it. Or Jim Elliott who was murdered sharing the gospel and his wife and children came back to complete the task. Or the book of Job. Let him camp there for a while. Preach if his loss and pain and God’s glory seen through it all.

    Discernment. I’ll close with this:
    2 Tim3:1-9
    but understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud , arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, with self control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers if God, hVin the apperan e of godliness, but denying it’s power. Avoid such people. For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth. Just as James and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as that of those two men.

    • Eva

      (if this post looks like it is directed at one comment, it’s because I can’t figure out how to just post, so don’t look at it personal to any one person here)
      I have one thing to say “Judge Not”. It is God’s job to judge a person on his or her works. I don’t have the authority to judge Joel Osteen. I have the right to listen or not, that is my only choice right given to me.
      Personally, I find Joel a great motivation speaker and take it as such. It’s nice to have the bible intermingled in the message of inspiration.
      I don’t have one preacher or doctrine I follow with worship. I think my relationship with my creator is personal to me and take all information is to consideration for my own worship plan. I have a brain, I can pick and choose what I want to agree with and disagree with.

  • Bible Doctrine

    AMEN!

  • Robert Ramos

    He is an expert at telling the people what they want to hear and not what they need to hear. He is misleading the true folowers of the Gospel and making millions of dollars doing it. The tongue of a snake salesman.

  • Cabrady2

    Not so much a hater I very much dislike the money matters of all churches. As for Joel in a time of need it will only take NINE DOLLARS for a prayer

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