Word of Faith - What it is and Why its wrong
- Benjamin Lamp
- Oct 16, 2020
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 31, 2024
Origin
The Word of Faith movement is not tied to a particular denomination or structured organization. Instead, it is a doctrine that is taught by various "pastors" across different Christian denominations, predominantly within Charismatic circles. E.W. Kenyon is widely believed to have originated this teaching, which was later popularized by Kenneth Hagin, who is considered the "father" of the movement. Many influential Word of Faith teachers today have been inspired by Hagin, including Charles Capps, Kenneth Copland, Bill Johnson (Bethel), Benny Hinn, and Todd White.
Theology
The Word of Faith movement has distinct teachings that set it apart from related movements like the Prosperity Gospel, although there are some overlapping beliefs. I wanted to highlight specific teachings of Word of Faith preachers.
One prominent teaching in the WOF movement is Healing. WOF preachers emphasize that God desires His children to live free from suffering and sickness. They believe that by following Christ, believers will receive blessings of good health, both physically and emotionally. They assert that complete healing was secured through Christ's sacrifice on the cross and is accessible to all believers, citing Isaiah 53:5 ("By His stripes, we are healed"). While acknowledging sickness in their congregations, they attribute it to attacks by Satan. Jerry Savelle states, "Sickness is generally Satan's attempt to rob believers of their divine right to total health," while Kenneth Copeland claims a personal covenant with God to live to 120 years based on Genesis 6:3, although this interpretation is not accurate.
Another key aspect of the Word of Faith movement is Prosperity. I will focus on this within the context of the WOF movement itself, as I will address the Prosperity Gospel separately. In addition to health, the WOF movement teaches that God intends to bless His followers with material wealth, attributing financial struggles to Satan rather than God. Kenneth Copeland suggests that lack of prosperity is due to giving authority to Satan, limiting God's intervention to the believer's invitation. They also claim that Jesus was wealthy, contrary to biblical accounts of His humble lifestyle. Kenneth Copeland asserts, "As the seeds of prosperity are planted in your heart, will, and emotions... they eventually produce a great financial harvest."
Another teaching within the WOF movement is the concept that Jesus embodies perfect theology, particularly popularized by Bill Johnson of Bethel. This teaching emphasizes that God always desires to heal individuals, as Jesus' sacrifice on the cross already secured their healing.
Lastly, the WOF movement has specific beliefs regarding Angels. Beni Johnson introduces her own Angel theology, suggesting that angels have specific roles in God's creation, some of whom have been inactive out of boredom. She recounts a story of a student at the Supernatural School of Ministry who claimed to have awakened an angel associated with the 1904 revival through a spontaneous act. While angels do have roles according to scripture, the specific details beyond that are uncertain.
While there are more teachings and topics that could be discussed, such as the "little gods theology" and "Jesus's Spiritual death," the main point remains clear. The Word of Faith movement poses significant dangers within modern Christianity, fostering self-doubt and promoting unbiblical and heretical teachings. The misuse of scripture to support their doctrines is evident, as highlighted by various testimonies. It is crucial for the leaders in this movement to repent of false teachings and seek God's guidance for genuine transformation. My prayers are with those who are part of these churches, that they may discern the truth and be liberated from deception.
References:
Kenneth E. Hagin, Right and Wrong Thinking, (Kenneth Hagin Ministries, 1966)
Jerry Savelle, If Satan Can't Steal Your Joy..., (Harrison House, 1982)
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