Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, states:
“For those who are quick to warn against the prosperity gospel and say, ‘I hate the prosperity message, I hate blessings,’ I have 35 questions that I’d like for them to answer, but they can’t answer them.”
He concludes his introduction by declaring:
“I am a joint heir of Christ and all that He owns.”
Shuttlesworth confidently presents his argument, asserting that critics of the prosperity gospel cannot answer his challenges and that his position is rooted in the believer's inheritance as a co-heir with Christ. This blog will explore these claims' biblical and theological validity and examine whether they offer a balanced perspective on prosperity, blessings, and our identity in Christ.
Are Prosperity Gospel Critics Against Blessings?
Shuttlesworth frames critics of the prosperity gospel as people who “hate blessings,” but this generalization oversimplifies their concerns. Most critics, including those within the charismatic tradition like Dr. Michael Brown, do not oppose blessings or prosperity. Instead, they challenge the elevation of material prosperity to a central gospel theme, arguing that it can distort biblical priorities and lead to a theology of entitlement.
The Bible affirms that God blesses His people (Deut. 28:1-14; Ps. 112:1-3), but it also warns against the dangers of wealth (Matt. 6:19-21; 1 Tim. 6:6-10). Critics often seek to redirect the focus from material gain to the gospel’s transformative message of salvation, sanctification, and kingdom service.
Can the Questions Be Answered?
Shuttlesworth’s 35 questions are presumably designed to defend the prosperity gospel and challenge critics. However, his claim that these questions “can’t be answered” overlooks the depth of theological reflection many critics offer. Scholars, pastors, and theologians—charismatic and non-charismatic—have thoughtfully responded to prosperity theology, addressing its biblical, theological, and practical implications.
For example, critics often point out that while Scripture acknowledges material blessings, it consistently places a greater emphasis on spiritual riches and eternal rewards (Eph. 1:3-14; Col. 3:1-2). They argue that the prosperity gospel can misrepresent the gospel by prioritizing temporal wealth over eternal values.
Joint Heirs with Christ: What Does It Mean?
Shuttlesworth’s assertion, “I am a joint heir of Christ and all that He owns,” is rooted in Romans 8:17, which declares that believers are co-heirs with Christ. This profound truth highlights the inheritance believers share with Christ through salvation. However, this inheritance is primarily spiritual, encompassing eternal life, fellowship with God, and the hope of glory.
While material blessings are not excluded from God’s provision, the New Testament consistently emphasizes the spiritual nature of our inheritance. Paul reminds the Colossians to “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Col. 3:2). Similarly, Peter describes our inheritance as “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you” (1 Pet. 1:4).
To interpret joint heirship as a guarantee of earthly wealth risks reducing the gospel to a materialistic framework. Instead, our inheritance in Christ calls us to live in the light of eternity, prioritizing God’s kingdom and righteousness (Matt. 6:33).
Theological and Practical Balance
Classical Pentecostal theology acknowledges God as the provider of spiritual and material blessings. However, it cautions against equating material prosperity with spiritual maturity or divine favor. Prosperity, when it comes, is a tool for advancing God’s kingdom and meeting the needs of others, not a sign of superior faith.
Dr. Michael Brown and other charismatic theologians emphasize that the gospel’s true power lies in its ability to transform lives, not in its promise of wealth. Critiques of the prosperity gospel often reflect a desire to preserve the integrity of this transformative message, ensuring that believers do not lose sight of their eternal inheritance in pursuit of temporal gains.
Addressing Critics with Grace
Shuttlesworth’s rhetoric, while passionate, risks creating unnecessary divisions within the body of Christ. Labelling critics as incapable of answering questions or as hating blessings dismisses the genuine concerns many believers have about the prosperity gospel. Constructive dialogue, rooted in Scripture and guided by the Holy Spirit, is essential for refining our understanding and growing together in faith.
Critiques of prosperity theology do not necessarily attack blessings or the Church but often reflect a desire to align teaching with the full counsel of Scripture. We can promote unity and uphold the gospel’s truth by engaging with these critiques thoughtfully and respectfully.
Conclusion: Our True Inheritance
Jonathan Shuttlesworth’s assertion that prosperity gospel critics “hate blessings” and cannot answer his questions oversimplifies the conversation. While material blessings are part of God’s provision, our ultimate inheritance as joint heirs with Christ is spiritual and eternal.
The gospel calls believers to seek God’s kingdom first, trusting Him to provide for their needs in accordance with His will. When prosperity comes, it should be seen as a resource for kingdom advancement, not an entitlement. As we engage in these discussions, let us do so with grace, humility, and a commitment to preserving the gospel’s transformative power.
Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨
(PhD Student)
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