Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, boldly asserts:
“The reason I have such harsh things to say is that the attack against the prosperity gospel is not academic; the attack is demonic. The Bible says in Psalm 112, Silver and Gold will be in the house of the righteous. At the end of the psalm, it says, The wicked will see it and will gnash their teeth.”
This statement is provocative and polarizing, raising critical theological and interpretive questions. Are critiques of the prosperity gospel truly demonic, as Shuttlesworth claims? Does Psalm 112 guarantee wealth and riches to the righteous?
Examining these issues through sound biblical interpretation and classical Pentecostal theology can help us uncover the truth behind these claims.
Understanding Psalm 112: The Righteous and Their Blessings
Psalm 112 celebrates the blessings of those who fear the Lord and live uprightly. Verses such as, “Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever” (Ps. 112:3, ESV), appear to support Shuttlesworth’s interpretation. However, context is key.
The psalm describes not just the material blessings of the righteous but also their ethical and spiritual virtues: generosity, justice, and unwavering trust in the Lord. It uses poetic imagery to contrast the destiny of the righteous with that of the wicked, emphasizing God’s justice. While wealth is mentioned, it is secondary to the individual's character.
Verse 10, where “the wicked will see it and be angry”, highlights divine justice rather than personal vindication. The wicked gnash their teeth not merely because of wealth but because they see the righteous prosper in God’s favor, which they have rejected.
Does Wealth Equal Righteousness?
Classical Pentecostal theology teaches that God is a provider who blesses His children. Yet, it cautions against equating material wealth with righteousness or spiritual favor. While prosperity is a blessing, it is not guaranteed to every believer in every circumstance.
The Bible consistently prioritizes spiritual transformation over material gain. Jesus warned against the dangers of wealth (Matt. 6:19-21), and Paul highlighted contentment as a mark of godliness (1 Tim. 6:6-10). Psalm 112 must be interpreted in light of these broader biblical teachings. Wealth, when it comes, is a tool to advance God’s kingdom, not a metric of spiritual standing.
Critiquing Shuttlesworth's Claim
Shuttlesworth’s characterization of prosperity gospel critiques as “demonic” risks oversimplifying a complex issue. While spiritual opposition to the gospel is real, many critiques arise from a sincere concern for biblical integrity. Dr. Michael Brown, a respected theologian, argues that prosperity teachings often distort Scripture by overemphasizing material blessings at the expense of Christ-centered living.
Moreover, Shuttlesworth’s use of Psalm 112 as a prooftext for guaranteed wealth overlooks the psalm’s broader emphasis on covenantal faithfulness and spiritual character. The blessings described are not promises of universal material prosperity but depictions of God’s goodness to the faithful.
A Balanced View of Prosperity
Believers are called to trust God as Jehovah Jireh, their provider. However, this trust must be rooted in a balanced theology that seeks God’s kingdom first. True prosperity is not merely measured by wealth but by lives transformed by Christ and marked by holiness, generosity, and service.
Psalm 112 invites us to live righteously, trusting in God’s justice and provision. While material blessings may come, they are never the focus. Instead, they are resources to glorify God and bless others.
Conclusion: The Heart of the Gospel
Criticism of the prosperity gospel is not inherently demonic; it can stem from a genuine desire to protect the purity of the gospel message. When properly understood, Psalm 112 points to God’s faithfulness rather than a formula for wealth.
As believers, we are called to prioritize spiritual growth and kingdom work, trusting that God will supply our needs in His timing and according to His will. Let us focus on the eternal treasures of the gospel, remembering that the greatest prosperity is found in knowing Christ.
🙏 If this blog challenged or inspired you, share it with others! Let’s continue the conversation about faith, theology, and God's true blessings.
Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨
(PhD Student)
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