The prosperity gospel is a controversial doctrine that many consider unethical, causing more harm than benefit to the body of Christ. Much has been written about the movement. While often associated with the individualistic, consumer-driven, American dream, the movement stretches across the Globe. This research examines the prosperity gospel through an ethical lens and suggests a non-reciprocal framework that enables ethical consumption and application of the doctrine.
With its roots in the pentecostal and evangelical movements of the 1970s and 1980s, the prosperity gospel is rising again. Modern practitioners of the gospel include Joel Osteen, Kenneth Copeland, and TD. Jakes. Much has been written critiquing the theological foundation on which these pastors have built their fortunes. However, very little is known about the ethics of this doctrine. Detractors suggest there is no redeeming value in the prosperity gospel. Supporters point to the millions of devoted followers and Christians who derive inspiration and claim a personal connection with Christ due to their application of the doctrine. So the question that remains mostly unexplored asks, "is it ethical to teach a prosperity gospel?"
This research will seek to define the prosperity gospel and identify its value and critical concerns. The research will then examine the doctrine through the ethic of Justice, the ethic of Critique, the ethic of Care, and the ethic of the Profession as defined by Shapiro & Stefkovich in their 2014 work entitled Ethical leadership and decision making in education: Applying theoretical perspectives to complex dilemmas. Finally, the paper will provide an ethical paradigm in which the believer can view and consume the prosperity gospel.
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