The Prosperity Gospel. It goes by a lot of names. Prosperity, name it and claim it theology, The Secret, the word of faith movement… but how did it begin? Who came up with the ideas that are now spreading throughout the world?

This week on the Truce Podcast we interview Brandon Kimber, director of the new film American Gospel. The film takes a deep dive into the world of the prosperity gospel, and what the gospel is in the first place. The film is 2.5 hours long and covers a lot of ground. I recommend watching it in 2-3 chunks as a small group with a discussion after each chunk.

Interviews within the movie include Matt Chandler, Francis Chan, John MacArthur, Jackie Hill Perry, Costi Hinn, and many others. There are many clips of famous prosperity teachers explicitly preaching in opposition to the Bible, including Benny Hinn, Joel Osteen, Victoria Osteen, Kenneth Copeland, and Bill Johnson of Bethel Church.

Discussed within the episode:

  • What is the prosperity gospel?
  • Who founded the prosperity gospel movement?
  • Who is Phineus Quimby?
  • How did Phineus Quimby influence Mary Baker Eddy, founder of the Christian Science religion?
  • Who is E.W. Kenyon and how did he shape our modern blend of New Thought and biblical living?
  • What is the Christian gospel?
  • How do I get to heaven?
  • What happens if God doesn’t heal me?


The episode also features a number of gospel presentations that are at about 10 words each. Here are some of them, thanks to First Baptist Church of Jackson, WY.

Jesus’ resurrection reconciles the holy God and sinful people who believe.

Faith in Jesus is enough to be forgiven and received.

Faith in Jesus is enough to be forgiven and transformed.

God’s gift of reconciliation offered to humanity.

Jesus’ resurrection reconciles holy God and sinful people who believe.

Christ died so that we might live!

God’s righteous wrath shall be averted pleading Christ’s death alone.

Choose God’s grace through Jesus or default to God’s punishment.

The truth about God’s plan of salvation for believers

Acceptance of undeserved blessings & atonement for yesterday, today, and forever.

Christ’s perfect life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection affords an opportunity for a positive eternity for all who are willing to accept it.

Individuals can have peace with God through Jesus’ atoning death.

He died on the cross for my sins even though I constantly fall short.

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