Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, poses his third question:
“How did God create man in the beginning, and how will things end?”
He elaborates:
“When God created man, where did He put him? In the projects? In a trailer park, scrounging to survive? Or did He put him in a garden of abundance?”
Citing Genesis 1:11-12, Genesis 1:29-30, Genesis 2:10-11, and referencing the Lord’s Prayer, Shuttlesworth argues that the prosperity God provided for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden reflects His will for humanity. He concludes provocatively:
“If God hates wealth, He must be miserable in Heaven. If you think God hates wealth and material opulence, have you considered what Heaven looks like? If you hate wealth, you will be miserable in Heaven…if you make it.”
This blog examines these claims in light of Scripture, theology, and the broader biblical narrative.
The Garden of Eden: A Place of Abundance
Examining Genesis 1:11-12, 1:29-30, and 2:10-11
The creation narrative in Genesis describes a world of abundance. God’s command for vegetation to spring forth (Gen. 1:11-12) results in a land filled with fruit-bearing plants. Adam and Eve are placed in the Garden of Eden, where God provides for their every need:
“I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food” (Gen. 1:29).
The Garden is further described as having rivers and precious resources:
“The gold of that land is good; aromatic resin and onyx are also there” (Gen. 2:12).
Shuttlesworth correctly observes that the Garden of Eden was a place of abundance, reflecting God’s provision and care for humanity. However, it is important to note that this abundance was given in the context of perfect fellowship with God. The Garden’s prosperity was not merely material but relational and spiritual, rooted in humanity’s intimate communion with God.
The Lord’s Prayer: Heaven on Earth
Shuttlesworth highlights the petition in the Lord’s Prayer:
“Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 6:10).
He interprets this as a prayer for replicating heavenly abundance on earth. While the phrase does reflect a desire for God’s will to be realized on earth, it encompasses far more than material prosperity. The kingdom of God, as revealed through Jesus, is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Rom. 14:17).
The prayer invites believers to seek God’s reign in every aspect of life, prioritizing spiritual transformation and kingdom advancement over material gain. It is not a direct mandate for earthly wealth to mirror heavenly opulence but a call for the redemptive order of God’s reign to manifest on earth.
Wealth and Heaven: Misunderstanding Opulence
Shuttlesworth argues that if God hates wealth, He would be “miserable in Heaven.” While heaven is described with imagery of streets of gold and precious stones (Rev. 21:21), these descriptions are symbolic, portraying the splendour and holiness of God’s presence rather than endorsing materialism.
Heaven’s beauty reflects the glory of God, not a divine endorsement of earthly wealth as a measure of spiritual success. The true treasure of heaven is God Himself, not material riches.
Prosperity in the Biblical Narrative
Before the Fall
The Garden of Eden demonstrates God’s provision, but its primary focus is humanity’s relationship with God. Prosperity in Eden served as a context for worship and obedience, not as an end in itself.
After the Fall
The fall introduced sin, disrupting humanity’s relationship with God and the created order. Work became toil (Gen. 3:17-19), and material prosperity could now lead to idolatry and greed. This tension persists throughout Scripture.
In the New Covenant
Jesus redefines prosperity, emphasizing treasures in heaven over earthly wealth (Matt. 6:19-21). Paul teaches contentment, whether in plenty or want, as a mark of godliness (Phil. 4:11-13). Material wealth is not condemned but is subordinate to spiritual priorities.
Critique of Shuttlesworth’s Argument
Shuttlesworth’s assertion that heavenly abundance justifies a prosperity-focused gospel risks oversimplifying the Bible’s teachings on wealth and prosperity. While God is generous, material wealth is not the primary focus of Scripture. The Bible consistently prioritizes spiritual blessings and character transformation over material gain.
Dr. Michael Brown critiques the prosperity gospel for conflating God’s provision with wealth guarantees. He argues that God’s blessings are given to advance His kingdom, not to fuel self-centred desires.
John Piper highlights the danger of valuing wealth over God, reminding believers that the ultimate joy is found in God Himself. Similarly, John MacArthur warns against equating financial prosperity with God’s favour, emphasizing the sufficiency of Christ for every believer.
Application for Believers
The Garden of Eden reminds us of God’s original design for humanity: a life of abundance rooted in fellowship with Him. However, this abundance is primarily spiritual, reflecting peace, purpose, and relationship with God. Believers are called to trust in God’s provision without idolizing wealth.
The Lord’s Prayer invites us to seek God’s kingdom on earth, prioritizing His will over material pursuits. While God provides for His children, the true riches of the Christian life are found in Christ and the hope of eternal life.
Conclusion: How Did God Create Humanity, and How Will Things End?
God created humanity for abundance, but this abundance transcends material wealth. The Garden of Eden, the Lord’s Prayer, and the imagery of heaven all point to God’s desire for intimate fellowship with His people and fulfilling His redemptive plan.
As believers, we are called to seek God's kingdom first, trusting Him to meet our needs and using His blessings to glorify Him. True prosperity is not found in material riches but in a life rooted in Christ, reflecting His love and advancing His purposes.
Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨
(PhD Student)
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