Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, asserts:
“Unfortunately, I was born with a rare disease called ‘I don’t give a crap what the world thinks about the Church.’ Let me put it this way; I don’t care what the enemies of the Church think about the Church. And I don’t care what the enemies of the gospel think is an acceptable level of prosperity for those who are born again.
My only concern is what God says in His Word. If God said I can have something He paid for, then I want it. If Jesus shed blood to enact a covenant, I want everything included in that covenant.”
He further states:
“I already said that those who hate the prosperity message are among the stupidest people you’ll ever meet;”
This statement makes strong claims: financial prosperity is part of the covenant of Jesus Christ, and critics of the prosperity gospel are labelled as enemies of the gospel and as “stupid.” This blog will examine these claims biblically, unpacking whether financial prosperity is a covenantal guarantee and addressing such an argument's spiritual and theological implications.
What Does the Covenant of Jesus Include?
The New Covenant, inaugurated by the shed blood of Jesus Christ, is central to Christian theology. It is detailed in Scripture as a covenant of salvation, reconciliation, and transformation (Luke 22:20; Heb. 8:6-13). Jesus’ atonement secures forgiveness of sins, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and eternal life.
While the covenant does promise abundant life (John 10:10), this abundance is primarily spiritual, focused on restored fellowship with God, peace, and the hope of glory. Financial prosperity is not explicitly included in the promises of the New Covenant. Instead, the New Testament encourages contentment (1 Tim. 6:6-10), generosity (2 Cor. 9:6-7), and trust in God’s provision (Matt. 6:31-33).
Financial Prosperity: A Blessing, Not a Guarantee
Throughout Scripture, financial blessings are presented as a potential outcome of God’s favor but not as a universal covenantal right. In the Old Testament, prosperity often accompanied obedience to the Mosaic covenant (Deut. 28:1-14). However, even then, it was tied to Israel’s specific relationship with God as a nation and not an individual guarantee.
In the New Testament, believers are called to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth (Matt. 6:19-21). Paul, who lived a life of faith and obedience, experienced times of abundance and need, demonstrating that material wealth is not the hallmark of covenantal faithfulness (Phil. 4:11-13).
Shuttlesworth’s implication that financial prosperity is an entitlement under the New Covenant risks conflating God’s blessings with human expectations. While God provides for His children, the primary focus of the covenant is eternal redemption, not temporal wealth.
Addressing Criticism and the Spirit of Dialogue
Shuttlesworth’s assertion that critics of the prosperity gospel are “stupid” dismisses the genuine concerns raised by thoughtful theologians, both charismatic and non-charismatic. Leaders such as Dr. Michael Brown critique the prosperity gospel not from a place of hostility but out of a desire to safeguard the purity of the gospel. These critiques often stem from concerns that an overemphasis on wealth distorts the core message of Christ, leading believers to prioritize materialism over spiritual growth.
Labelling critics as “enemies of the gospel” risks alienating those who may be open to dialogue and creates an atmosphere of division rather than unity within the body of Christ. Constructive theological debate is essential to refining our understanding of Scripture, and dismissing opposing views undermines the opportunity for growth and correction.
What God Says in His Word
Shuttlesworth rightly emphasizes the importance of aligning with God’s Word. However, interpreting Scripture requires careful hermeneutics, ensuring personal desires do not overshadow biblical truth. Classical Pentecostal theology affirms that God blesses His people, often materially. Still, these blessings are a byproduct of seeking His kingdom and righteousness (Matt. 6:33), not a central component of the gospel.
Jesus's blood paid for our salvation, reconciliation, and eternal inheritance. The covenant He established calls believers to a life of holiness, generosity, and trust in God’s provision. When prosperity comes, it is to be stewarded for kingdom purposes, not claimed as a right.
A Balanced View of Prosperity and the Covenant
Critiques of the prosperity gospel are not inherently attacks on the Church or the gospel. Instead, they often reflect a concern that an overemphasis on material gain is diluting the message of Christ. The gospel is not about securing wealth but transforming lives through the power of the cross.
Dr. Michael Brown aptly notes, “If we preach a gospel that makes people more greedy rather than more generous, we are preaching a false gospel.” The covenant of Jesus Christ is far richer than material prosperity—it promises eternal life, a restored relationship with God, and the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit.
Conclusion: Pursue the Fullness of Christ’s Covenant
Shuttlesworth’s passionate defense of prosperity theology raises important questions about the relationship between faith and finances. While financial prosperity can be a blessing from God, it is not the centerpiece of the covenant Christ enacted through His blood. Believers are called to pursue Christ and His kingdom above all else, trusting God to meet their needs in His wisdom and timing.
Rather than dismissing critics as enemies, we should embrace constructive dialogue that helps the Church remain faithful to the gospel’s message. The covenant of Jesus Christ offers far more than wealth—it offers eternal hope and the unsearchable riches of God’s grace.
Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨
(PhD Student)
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