There’s a stark divide between pastors and congregants when it comes to the so-called “prosperity gospel,” according to newly released research. There are different understandings and assumptions about the prosperity gospel, but Lifeway Research defines it as a “theological movement that teaches God wants to make followers materially wealthy and will do so if individuals hold certain beliefs or perform specific actions.” As it turns out, fewer than 1 in 10 (8%) Protestant pastors believe individuals must do something for God in order to receive material blessings from Him,” Lifeway Research noted “Nine in 10 (90%) disagree, including 74% who disagree strongly. Few (2%) aren’t sure.” Meanwhile, just 18% of pastors said their churches teach that God will bless a giver if he or she gives more money to the church, with 79% disagreeing and 3% noting they’re simply not sure. There is a bit more disagreement over whether the Lord wants people to be financially prosperous, though, with 37% agreeing and the majority—59%—disagreeing.
The research found that Protestant pastors with church attendance of 250 or more were among the “least likely” to reject the idea their church sees a tie between giving money and God’s blessings. These leaders were also more likely — 52% — to see God as wanting people to prosper in their finances. Interestingly, a 2022 Lifeway Research study found some disparities in how churchgoers view the issue. It found that 45% of Protestant churchgoers say they must do something to “receive material blessings from God” — a percentage up starkly from the 26% found in 2017. And congregants’ perceptions are also fascinating to note, as 52% believe their church teaches that blessings will come if they dole out more money to the church, with a stunning 76% believing God wants them to become financially prosperous. Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research, said in a statement the disconnect shows that preachers might not be the source of prosperity gospel beliefs among congregants and that these ideals might be coming from somewhere else.
Source: Faithwire
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