Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, poses a provocative question:
“Was Jesus poor?”
He then builds his argument by citing biblical examples, including the gifts of the Magi (gold, frankincense, and myrrh), Jesus’ wealthy supporters (Luke 8:1-3), and Jesus’ ministry treasurer (John 12:6). He further points to events such as Jesus feeding the 5,000 and the seamless garment gambled over at the crucifixion to suggest that Jesus lived in abundance, not poverty. Shuttlesworth concludes:
“You’d have to be a fool to believe Jesus was poor.”
This blog examines Shuttlesworth’s claims through Scripture, theological reflection, and insights from scholarly resources to determine whether Jesus’ life supports a prosperity gospel framework.
1. The Gifts of the Magi: Abundance from Birth?
Shuttlesworth highlights the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh brought by the Magi (Matt. 2:11) as evidence of abundance in Jesus’ life. These gifts, while valuable, had symbolic significance:
Gold: Representing kingship.
Frankincense: Symbolizing priestly intercession.
Myrrh: Foreshadowing His suffering and death.
While these gifts may have provided financial support for Joseph and Mary’s flight to Egypt (Matt. 2:13-15), they do not necessarily indicate that Jesus lived in perpetual wealth. Instead, they underscore His unique role as King, Priest, and Savior.
2. Wealthy Supporters in Jesus’ Ministry
Shuttlesworth points to Luke 8:1-3, which describes women such as Joanna, Susanna, and Mary Magdalene providing financial support for Jesus’ ministry. This passage does indicate that Jesus had patrons, but it also reflects His dependence on others’ generosity. Far from living in personal abundance, Jesus modeled a life of trust in God’s provision (Matt. 6:25-34).
Dr. Michael Brown, in Playing with Holy Fire, notes that Jesus’ reliance on supporters demonstrates humility and a focus on ministry rather than personal wealth. The presence of wealthy backers does not imply that Jesus prioritized material prosperity.
3. Did Jesus Have a Treasurer?
Shuttlesworth emphasizes that Jesus had a treasurer, Judas Iscariot, and suggests that the theft of funds (John 12:6) did not hinder His ministry, implying substantial financial resources. While having a treasurer does indicate some level of financial management, the text does not elaborate on the amount of money involved.
John MacArthur notes that Judas’ role highlights the practical needs of Jesus’ itinerant ministry, including expenses for food, travel, and supporting the poor (John 13:29). However, this does not suggest a surplus of wealth but rather careful stewardship of limited resources.
4. Feeding the 5,000: Alleviating Poverty
Shuttlesworth cites the feeding of the 5,000 as evidence that Jesus did not live in poverty but alleviated it. This miraculous event (John 6:1-14) demonstrates Jesus’ compassion and divine power rather than material wealth.
Jesus’ ability to multiply five loaves and two fish highlights God’s provision and sovereignty. Costi Hinn, in God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel, warns against using miracles like this to justify prosperity theology, as the focus is on God’s glory and provision for His people, not on earthly riches.
5. The Seamless Garment: Evidence of Wealth?
Shuttlesworth points to the soldiers gambling for Jesus’ garment at the crucifixion (John 19:23-24) as evidence of its great value. While a seamless garment may have been of higher quality, its significance lies in fulfilling prophecy (Ps. 22:18), not in showcasing Jesus’ wealth.
John Piper emphasizes that Jesus’ life was marked by humility and sacrifice, culminating in His death on the cross. The value of the garment is inconsequential compared to the spiritual wealth Jesus offers through His atonement.
6. Did Jesus Sleep in Poverty?
Shuttlesworth asks whether Jesus slept “out in the dirt,” citing Jesus’ invitation to potential disciples: “Come and see” (John 1:39). While Jesus did not live in luxury, He also did not lack basic needs. His statement, “The Son of Man has no place to lay his head” (Matt. 8:20), underscores His itinerant lifestyle and mission-driven focus.
Theological Reflection
Jesus’ Life and Mission
The New Testament portrays Jesus as one who emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant (Phil. 2:7). His earthly life was characterized by simplicity, not opulence. While He had access to resources through supporters and divine provision, His focus was on fulfilling His Father’s will, not accumulating wealth.
The Kingdom of God
Jesus taught that the kingdom of God is not about material wealth but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Rom. 14:17). His miracles and teachings often challenged the cultural emphasis on wealth, calling His followers to store up treasures in heaven (Matt. 6:19-21).
Dr. Michael Brown’s Insight
Dr. Brown critiques prosperity theology for misrepresenting Jesus’ life. While Jesus did not live in abject poverty, His mission was not to model earthly wealth but to bring spiritual transformation and redemption.
Conclusion: Was Jesus Poor?
Jonathan Shuttlesworth raises important questions about Jesus’ relationship with wealth. While Jesus was not destitute, His life was marked by humility, dependence on God, and a focus on eternal purposes. The presence of finances in His ministry—whether through gifts, supporters, or miraculous provision—served God’s mission rather than reflecting personal abundance.
Believers are called to follow Jesus’ example, trusting God to meet their needs and using resources to advance His kingdom. True prosperity is found not in earthly riches but in the immeasurable riches of Christ.
Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨
(PhD Student)
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