Joel Osteen was criticized for not mentioning God in his messages...?!
Question: More specifically the name of Jesus, but do you think Joel is doing what he was meant to do or is he another false prophet or false witness set out to do his own will and not God's will?
Answers: More specifically the name of Jesus, but do you think Joel is doing what he was meant to do or is he another false prophet or false witness set out to do his own will and not God's will?
everybody wants to critisise everyone else. that's life.
christians need to leave it alone. the world attacks us enough as it is, we do not need to do that to each other.
as per olsteen, i'm not a fan. i really don't give a crap. but i've heard one okay message from him. the thing is, he's into all of that "prosperity gospel" junk..... you know, the "accept jesus get rich" crap that i think is a misinterpretation and misrepresentation of scripture. I do not believe that the gospel is about money or that if you just believe hard enough you can have whatever you want. That actually is not in line with scripture, as it clearly states, in the world we will have troubles, but not to worry as God has overcome the world and all it's problems. The only thing God really promises, and guarantees when we accept Christ, is forgiveness of sins and eternal salvation. Also, i think his teachings border on self-help crap, and not necessarily apply all of the truths of scripture. But he's definitely a "health and wealth" type of a preacher, and i don't get into those types of preachers, and i am not big on tele-evangelists at all.
As per your comment on his being a "false prophet" or a "false teacher" ...... the Bible is clear, very clear, on what makes someone fall into that category. The specifics are clearly outlined, in both the Old and New Testaments; and the best way to evaluate the preacher, is by the preaching. And whether or not the message stands up against the Word of God as a whole. Doctrines are important, but so is lifestyle.
Not everyone enjoys the same type of preaching. And that's okay. What appeals to one, may not appeal to another; but so long as the preaching is fimly grounded and based in the Word of God, and is not tainted or tampered with in any way, than to each his own.
If they are not against us, then they are for us. And what does it matter if their style of preaching is different, as it is the same Gospel and same Lord that is preached, so it does the Church (corporately) and the Body no harm. IF it is in line with the Word of God, then it does no harm.
I think that, it is okay to dislike someone's style of preaching, but one ought to be careful in accusing a man or woman of God of being a 'false teacher' when and where it is not warranted. Just because you do not like their style of preaching does not mean that they are preaching and teaching falsely. It is a matter of wisdom to guard your tongue and not bring an accusation against one of the Lord's anointed. As if what you say is false, than you are no more than a tool in the hand of the enemy in working towards destroying that minister's reputation and credibility.
So, that being said; you must evaluate it for yourself, but don't go accusing someone just because you do not like them or their preaching. IF they are false, then God will expose it, in due time, in one form or another. It is not wrong to speak out against false teachers and teachings, BUT you must know when to speak, and in order to do that, you must know for a fact that the individual is corrupt, and you must base it on not just solid evidences that are a matter of common sense, but also judge them, and their teachings according to the Word of God. As the Word is our guide; and if what is spoken by them is not in line with the word, than the teaching must be cast aside.
It is not easy to be a minister, i am certain. They are under a lot of pressure; And their accountability level is much higher than lay people, as they are there to lead, and to teach other believers in what is right and true, according to the Word of the Lord. (the Bible). Even so, everyone makes mistakes. Do not confuse a mistake, with a false doctrine or teaching. As the Word of God is there for "teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2Timothy 3:16-17.
And that includes for Pastors, and Prophets and Missionaries and Worship Leaders and so on down the line of authority including lay people. We are constantly growing in our knowledge of the Word, and even Pastors don't know it all, but are continually learning.
So, you must take that into account. The only person that knows it all is God. And we are not Him, so our only REAL means of knowing what's on his mind is by the Bible. Therefore, you must judge according to the Word.
Hbr 4:12 "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
So..... the whole point is: To each his own. If you do not like His preaching (which i can understand, as i am not in favour of it) than that is fine. But exercise wisdom in your speaking about him, as IF he is genuine, you could work as a tool in the hand of the enemy, and not just cast a shadow on his reputation and ministry, but you could also destroy what seeds have been planted in the hearts of people of whom he has been able to reach with his message. AND as i said, the word says also, if they are not against us, than they are for us.
I could say more, but i will not. This is just my opinion. I Hope this helps.
1 Corinthins 4:1-14;
:P
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*edit* lol, thanks Vic. :) thumbs up for you; though brief, i agree with you.
Joel ROCKS!!! He is a good man! =)
Joel is OK. Besides God isn't all that he is cracked up to be let alone JC!
I try to watch Joel Osteen every weekend and I have consistently been impressed with his style of preaching and the charisma that he has on the pulpit. His messages all revolve around the same principles: love for The Lord and love for one another. Whether or not he mentions Jesus by name (I have heard him do this on several occasions), he is truly doing what God has intended for him to do.
I live in houston and ive been to one of his services. they do not know him. he is a good man and hes talks a lot about God. his messages are so strong he cries most of the time and makes us warm in our stomach whoever doesnt like him is carzy.
IMHO, Joel Osteen Is A "Feel Good" Preacher. His Goal Is Simple: To Make You Feel Like Being A Christian Is All Rainbows An Blue Skies! This Simply Isn't True Cause The Bible Says That Is "Rains On The Just And The Unjust" So In Joel's World There Is No Need For Jesus Cause "God" Will Just Bless You Until U Can't Breath Anymore!
Which Is Of Course Total Bull, Don't Get Me Wrong The Lord Jesus Christ Has Blessed Me Beyond The Imagination And Always Will. However I Have Had Some Serious Hardships And Struggles. Jesus Christ Was The Only One That Got Me Through Those.
The Point Is Simple, He Is Misleading The Masses With His Teachings And IMHO You Should Avoid His Somewhat Twisted View of Reality.
P.S.
Check Out My Source Below That Talks About His Very "Flip Floping" Interview With Larry King Live.
Decide For Yourself But If This Man Can't Officially Say That Other Religions Are WRONG And That Jesus Christ Is The ONLY Way To Heaven Then He Is NO Man Of God.
"Jesus declared in John 14; I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me."
Plain And Simple Dude.
His gift is encouragement, and I guess he mentions God and Jesus some. At least he doen't deny Christian doctrine.
I feel for TV preacher because they will always be disected.
Beans 4 Brains above me answered this question thoroughly and deserves the BA!
Personally I like J.O. !
I have purchased several of his books.
But sometimes I wonder where does he get all of those stories he tells during his sermon.
He is a good guy!
iam not christian but i think we have got to mention God and acknowledge God Blessings