@ ARCANUS mainly, but of course open to anyone who feels like jumping in.
What is your opinion of "Prosperity Theology" so beloved of some of the happy clappy evangelicals?
So we're on the same page; From Wiki
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prosperity_theology
My perception is that it's a simplified reworking of Calvinism,with its teaching of predestination usually implied rather than stated outright. IE The saved are prosperous, that's how you can tell they're saved. (See Max Weber; "The Protestant Ethic And The Spirit Of Capitalism")
The notion seems to contradict the admonitions and some of the parables of Jesus;EG "It's easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven" and the "the lillies of the field". There's LOT in the gospels about living a simple life devoid of wealth,both explicit and implied..
That's the cheese, I'll leave the chalk of Liberation theology for another thread. Not wanting to argue doesn't mean I'm not willing to ask your opinion. I also visit an on line Yeshiva to ask Talmudic scholars about Judaism,but don't try to argue with them. I want to learn,not "prove I'm right".
What is your opinion of "Prosperity Theology" so beloved of some of the happy clappy evangelicals?
So we're on the same page; From Wiki
Quote:Prosperity theology (also known as prosperity doctrine, health and wealth, prosperity gospel) is a religious teaching that God desires material prosperity for those he favors.[1] Material prosperity in this theology not only includes financial prosperity but success in relationships and good health as well.[2] This material favour may be preordained, or granted by God in return for correct "faith" significantly evidenced in the beliefs, attitude and obedience of the adherent.[3] It has been the target of debate within the Christian community.[4]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prosperity_theology
My perception is that it's a simplified reworking of Calvinism,with its teaching of predestination usually implied rather than stated outright. IE The saved are prosperous, that's how you can tell they're saved. (See Max Weber; "The Protestant Ethic And The Spirit Of Capitalism")
The notion seems to contradict the admonitions and some of the parables of Jesus;EG "It's easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven" and the "the lillies of the field". There's LOT in the gospels about living a simple life devoid of wealth,both explicit and implied..
That's the cheese, I'll leave the chalk of Liberation theology for another thread. Not wanting to argue doesn't mean I'm not willing to ask your opinion. I also visit an on line Yeshiva to ask Talmudic scholars about Judaism,but don't try to argue with them. I want to learn,not "prove I'm right".
