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Lesson 1: Understanding Prosperity Theology - Student Handout

Writer's picture: Bradley SliedrechtBradley Sliedrecht

The Bible Study Leaders Manual is available on Amazon.


You Tube Video Link: https://youtu.be/C3QHtVI9MfQ


Theme: Understanding the foundations, controversies, and key principles of prosperity theology while developing a biblically balanced perspective on wealth and blessings.


Key Scripture Passages:

  • 1 Timothy 6:6-10 “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”

  • Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

  • Proverbs 30:8-9 “Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.”

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Teaching Highlights:
  1. What is Prosperity Theology?

    • Often called the "health and wealth gospel," it teaches that faith, positive confession, and giving guarantee financial and physical blessings.

    • Emphasizes material success as evidence of God’s favor, often overlooking stewardship, suffering, and eternal rewards.

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  1. Why Is Prosperity Theology Controversial?

    • It can distort the gospel, equating faithfulness with wealth.

    • Critics argue it exploits vulnerable believers and reduces God’s blessings to a transactional relationship.

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  2. Historical Development of Prosperity Theology:


    Early Foundations: Influenced by the Holiness movement, Pentecostalism, and New Thought philosophy.


    Key Figures:

    • Phineas Quimby (1802–1866): Developed ideas about belief shaping reality, influencing New Thought.

    • E.W. Kenyon (1867–1948): Bridged New Thought principles and evangelical Christianity.

    • Oral Roberts (1918–2009): Popularized seed-faith theology and televangelism.

    • Kenneth Hagin (1917–2003): Father of the Word of Faith Movement, emphasizing positive confession.

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  3. Balanced Biblical Prosperity:

    • True prosperity includes spiritual growth, contentment, and faithful stewardship (1 Timothy 6:6-10).

    • Wealth is a tool for serving God and others, not a sign of spiritual superiority or a guaranteed blessing.

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Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some common misconceptions about prosperity theology?

  2. How have you seen prosperity theology impact individuals or churches?

  3. Why is it important to interpret Scripture in its historical and cultural context?

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Reflection and Application:

  1. Meditate on Contentment: Reflect on 1 Timothy 6:6-10. Where can you grow in godly contentment?

  2. Evaluate Your Perspective: Does your view of God’s blessings align with Scripture?

  3. Study Contextually: Choose a passage about wealth (e.g., Proverbs 30:8-9) and explore its historical and cultural context.

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Memory Verse: Matthew 6:33 "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

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Closing Prayer:

  • Thank God for revealing His truth and for the opportunity to grow in understanding.

  • Pray for a heart that prioritizes His Kingdom over material pursuits.

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Session Objective: By the end of this session, participants will:

  1. Understand the foundations and controversies of prosperity theology.

  2. Recognize the importance of interpreting Scripture in context.

  3. Begin developing a biblically balanced view of God’s blessings.


Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht | Faith, Finances, and True Prosperity Bible Study Series

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