Review of Prosperity Gospel

Shanesha Sammerson · Post by **Shanesha Sammerson** » 03 Mar 2023, 13:06

[Following is a volunteer review of "Prosperity Gospel" by Roger Smalling.]

5 out of 5 stars

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Roger Smalling's book Prosperity Gospel examines the intersection of two theological belief systems: the Prosperity Gospel and the Charismatic Movement, as well as the negative effects they can have on individuals and the larger Christian community. The book discusses how the Prosperity Gospel and the Charismatic Movement can contribute to a shallow and self-centered view of Christianity that ignores the reality of life's suffering and hardship.

Smalling draws on his own experiences as a former Prosperity Gospel preacher and Latin American missionary, as well as the experiences of others who have been hurt or disappointed by these belief systems. The book also includes insights and recommendations for those who have been hurt by the Prosperity Gospel or the Charismatic Movement, as well as those who want to engage with these movements more thoughtfully and critically.

This book was extremely helpful in educating me on some churches' blasphemous beliefs. I could not believe the way some of the church members acted toward other members in their time of need. One particular story touched my heart when a woman needed surgery, and the members believed that if she had enough faith, God would heal her. They mocked her for not having enough faith to proceed without the surgery.

Many churchgoers believe that simply believing in God will keep them healthy, but this is not true. If any church member knows their Bible, they will know that in the Book of Job, Job was one of God's most faithful servants, yet he and his family were afflicted. Instead of judging others, we should be more compassionate to one another in the church so that members would feel welcome.

I learned a lot of life lessons, some of which were unfamiliar to me. One distinction is between faith and hope. According to the author, "Hope is a vague expectation that something good might happen in the future. Faith, however, is a present-tense affair. It counts a promise of God as a legally accomplished fact." This has helped me realize that I had often hoped for a solution from God rather than having faith in Him.

I found only one error in this novel, which was professionally well-edited. There were no negative aspects to this book, but you should read it with an open mind because some Christians may find the content offensive. Overall, Prosperity Gospel investigates two popular but divisive Christian movements and their impact on individuals and communities. It was a great read that was extremely well-researched, with numerous Bible verses supporting the author's views on the criticized belief systems. As a result, I give this novel 5 out of 5 stars.

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Prosperity Gospel
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