As someone who has spent decades teaching personal finance matters and being a student of biblical stewardship, I’ve come across a lot of interpretations about money and faith. One of the most pervasive—and concerning—is the “Prosperity Gospel.” At first glance, it sounds appealing: believe in God, have enough faith, and He will bless you with material wealth, health, and success. But as I’ve studied Scripture and walked alongside others on their financial journeys, I’ve come to realize that the Prosperity Gospel is not just misleading—it’s dangerous to our faith.

Here’s why we should stay away from it.

1. It Misrepresents God’s Character

The Prosperity Gospel often paints God as a kind of cosmic vending machine: put in enough faith or obedience, and out comes material blessings. But this idea reduces God’s character to something transactional, ignoring His sovereignty, wisdom, and deeper purposes.

In Scripture, we see a God who blesses His people—but His blessings are not always material. For example, Jesus said:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3, ESV)

God’s ultimate blessing isn’t earthly wealth or success; it’s the eternal richness of knowing Him and being part of His kingdom.

2. It Twists Scripture for Personal Gain

One hallmark of Prosperity Gospel teaching is the misuse of Bible verses to promote the idea of guaranteed wealth. Passages like Malachi 3:10 (“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse…”) or John 10:10 (“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly”) are often taken out of context to suggest that God promises financial prosperity to all who believe.

But Scripture, when read in context, tells a fuller story. Jesus Himself said:

“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, ESV)

God’s Word doesn’t promise a life free from struggles or financial difficulty. Instead, it promises His presence, peace, and strength in all circumstances.

3. It Focuses on Earthly Rewards Over Eternal Riches

The Prosperity Gospel shifts our focus to temporary, earthly rewards. But Jesus warned against this mindset:

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19–20, ESV)

True wealth isn’t found in bank accounts, luxury cars, or big houses—it’s found in a life transformed by Christ and lived for His glory. When we chase after material blessings, we risk losing sight of what truly matters: loving God and loving others.

4. It Creates a False Theology of Suffering

One of the most harmful aspects of the Prosperity Gospel is its implication that suffering or financial struggles are signs of a lack of faith. This teaching can leave believers feeling ashamed, doubting their relationship with God, or questioning His goodness when trials come.

Yet the Bible is full of faithful men and women who faced immense hardship—Job, Paul, and even Jesus Himself. Paul writes:

“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound.” (Philippians 4:11–12, ESV)

God doesn’t promise us a life free from hardship, but He does promise to be with us through it all, shaping us to become more like Christ.

5. It Undermines Generosity and Stewardship

The Prosperity Gospel can distort our view of money, turning it into something we seek for our own benefit rather than a tool to serve others. Biblical stewardship calls us to manage our resources wisely and generously for God’s glory—not to hoard wealth for ourselves.

In Acts, the early church modeled radical generosity:

“And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.” (Acts 2:45, ESV)

When we embrace a biblical view of money, we see it as a means to bless others and advance God’s kingdom, not just a measure of our faith.

A Better Gospel

The true Gospel offers something far better than the Prosperity Gospel ever could: a relationship with Jesus Christ. In Him, we find forgiveness, purpose, and the promise of eternal life. These blessings far outweigh anything money can buy.

Let’s remember the words of Jesus:

“What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36, ESV)

Our faith isn’t about what we can get from God—it’s about loving Him, trusting Him, and living for His glory, whether in abundance or in need.

My Thoughts

The Prosperity Gospel is tempting because it appeals to our desire for comfort and success. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to a higher standard—a life of faithfulness, stewardship, and trust in God’s ultimate plan.

Let’s reject teachings that distort God’s Word and instead embrace the true Gospel, which offers joy and peace that no amount of money can provide.

What are your thoughts on this? How can we encourage each other to focus on eternal treasures rather than earthly ones?