Wolves Among Sheep

Kenneth Copeland, Joyce Meyer, and The Word of Faith Movement.

By: Samuel Neudeck

From a biblical evangelical perspective, the Word of Faith movement and ministries associated with leaders like Kenneth Copeland and Joyce Meyer are often viewed as “wolves in sheep’s clothing” because of several theological issues that evangelical Christians consider to be unbiblical or heretical. This is a plea to those caught in the movement to come to realize the false teachings that have been perpetrated around you.

1. Prosperity Gospel and False Teachings on Wealth

The Word of Faith movement teaches that God wants all believers to be materially wealthy and healthy, which is often called the “prosperity gospel” or “health and wealth gospel.” This doctrine suggests that faith, positive confession, and generous giving can lead to financial blessings, physical healing, and overall success.

Biblical concern: This teaching distorts the true message of the Bible. Scripture teaches that God provides for believers according to His will, but it does not promise wealth and prosperity as a guarantee 

“But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” ~ 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NASB)

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” ~ Matthew 6:19-21 (NASB)

Many evangelical theologians believe this teaching exploits people’s faith for financial gain, and it misrepresents the biblical understanding of suffering and contentment.

“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” ~ Philippians 4:11-12 (NASB)

 

2. Distortion of God’s Nature and Power

The Word of Faith movement often promotes a view of God that is more like a genie or a cosmic vending machine, where God is subject to the words or “confessions” of believers. They teach that through faith and declarations, believers can “command” God’s actions, including healing and financial blessings. Leaders like Kenneth Copeland have gone as far as suggesting that since God Himself used words to create the universe, the implication is that humans have the same power to create reality through spoken words.

Biblical concern: The Bible emphasizes that God is sovereign, and His will is not bound by human commands or confessions. Scripture teaches that God is the Creator, not a mere responder to human desires.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” ~ Isaiah 55:8-9 (NASB)

 The belief that humans can control or command God contradicts the biblical doctrine of God’s sovereignty and majesty.

“Our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.” ~ Psalm 115:3 (NASB)

 

3. Unbiblical Teachings on the Nature of Faith

The Word of Faith movement often defines faith as a force or a spiritual law, almost like a tangible substance that people can use to manipulate their reality. This is often expressed through “positive confession” — the idea that speaking positively or declaring one’s desires leads to them coming to pass. For instance, declaring “I am healed” or “I am wealthy” is seen as bringing about those realities.

Biblical concern: This is a fundamental misunderstanding of biblical faith. True faith, according to the Bible, is trusting in God and His promises, not in the power of words or human ability to manipulate the spiritual realm.

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” ~ Hebrews 11:1 (NASB)

 Faith is not a tool for controlling the outcome of life; it is trust in God’s wisdom and providence, even in difficult circumstances.

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” ~ Romans 8:28 (NASB)

 

4. The False Doctrine of “Little gods”

Some Word of Faith teachers, such as Kenneth Copeland and others, have taught that humans, through Christ, are “little gods” or divine beings. This idea is based on a misinterpretation of passages like

“I said, ‘You are gods, and all of you are sons of the Most High.'” ~ Psalm 82:6 (NASB)

“Jesus answered them, ‘Has it not been written in your Law, “I said, you are gods”?’” ~ John 10:34 (NASB)

In these passages, God refers to humans as “gods” in a metaphorical sense. Copeland and others have argued that because Jesus is God and believers are “in Christ,” they too possess divine nature or god-like powers.

Biblical concern: This teaching contradicts core Christian doctrine. While believers are adopted as children of God and share in His spiritual blessings, they are not divine or equal with God. The Bible is clear that God alone is divine and transcendent 

“You are My witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and My servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe Me and understand that I am He. Before Me no god was formed, nor will there be one after Me.” ~ Isaiah 43:10 (NASB)

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” ~ John 1:1 (NASB)

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities— all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” ~ Colossians 1:15-17 (NASB)

 

The claim that humans are “little gods” is seen as heretical and an affront to the biblical understanding of God’s uniqueness.

 

5. Health and Wealth as Proof of God’s Favor

Many Word of Faith ministries teach that health and wealth are signs of God’s favor, and conversely, poverty and sickness are signs of a lack of faith or spiritual failure. This teaching can lead to spiritual abuse and guilt, as believers who are suffering may be made to feel that their circumstances are the result of insufficient faith.

Biblical concern: The fact is that the Bible teaches that suffering, trials, and poverty are not necessarily signs of spiritual failure. In fact, many faithful people in the Bible experienced hardship and suffering, including the apostles and Christ Himself. 

“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” ~ John 16:33 (NASB)

“For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison.” ~ 2 Corinthians 4:17 (NASB)

The prosperity gospel, by equating material blessings with spiritual success, misrepresents the true nature of following Christ, which often includes self-denial, suffering, and taking up one’s cross 

“If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” ~ Luke 9:23 (NASB)

 

6. Misuse of Scripture and Eisegesis

Word of Faith preachers are often criticized for taking scripture out of context or applying it in ways that it was never intended to be used. They may cherry-pick verses, such as those about God’s promises of blessing, to fit their theological agenda, while ignoring the broader context of those verses.

Biblical concern: The importance of proper exegesis (drawing out the original meaning from the text) rather than eisegesis (reading into the text one’s own ideas). Many of the teachings in the Word of Faith movement are seen as a distortion of scripture, often twisting verses to support their theology, rather than submitting to the whole counsel of God as revealed in Scripture.

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.” ~ 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NASB)

 

7. Focus on Self Rather Than Christ

At the heart of the Word of Faith message is often a self-centered gospel that emphasizes personal success, happiness, and well-being, rather than the glory of God and the centrality of Christ. This focus on self-improvement and material success can overshadow the biblical call to deny oneself, take up the cross, and follow Jesus.

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.’” ~ Matthew 16:24 (NASB)

Biblical concern: The ultimate goal of the Christian life is to glorify God and follow Christ, even when that means suffering or sacrifice. The Word of Faith movement’s emphasis on personal empowerment and material gain can be seen as a form of “self-worship,” which undermines the true message of the gospel.

“I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and that life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” ~ Galatians 2:20 (NASB)

 

Ministries like Kenneth Copeland’s and Joyce Meyer’s are “wolves in sheep’s clothing” because they are teaching a distorted gospel that leads people away from the true teachings of Scripture. The emphasis on prosperity, health, and the ability of humans to manipulate God or control their circumstances through faith and positive confession is seen as both unbiblical and dangerous. From an evangelical perspective, these teachings often exploit vulnerable believers, misrepresent the nature of God, and distort the true gospel of Jesus Christ.

Kenneth Copeland and Joyce Meyer have been regularly criticized for misusing scripture to promote their teachings, especially the “prosperity gospel” or the “Word of Faith” movement. The key issue is that they often practice eisegesis—reading their own beliefs into the Bible—rather than exegesis, where one draws out the meaning intended by the original authors of Scripture. Here are examples of how they have misused specific passages of scripture, according to apologetics and critical biblical scholarship.

 

Examples of False Teachings

Kenneth Copeland

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1. Misuse of Genesis 1:26-28 (“Let Us Make Man in Our Image”) Scripture:
   

   “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.'” (Genesis 1:26, NKJV)
   
   Kenneth Copeland teaches that human beings are created as “little gods” and that just as God created the world through His words, so too can humans create their own reality. He interprets “Let Us make man in Our image” to mean that humans are essentially gods with the same creative power as God.
   
   Evangelical apologists argue that this is a gross misinterpretation of Genesis 1:26-28. The passage describes humans being made in the image and likeness of God, not as gods themselves. Humans are distinct from God, as His creation and not a divine entity.

“You are My witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and My servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe Me and understand that I am He. Before Me no god was formed, nor will there be one after Me.” ~ Isaiah 43:10 (NASB)

“There is no one holy like the Lord, indeed, there is no one besides You, nor is there any rock like our God.” ~ 1 Samuel 2:2 (NASB)

God’s image refers to moral and relational qualities, not divine power or creative ability. The Bible clearly affirms that God alone is Creator and sovereign.

“For thus says the Lord, who created the heavens; He is the God who formed the earth and made it, He established it and did not create it a waste place, but formed it to be inhabited: ‘I am the Lord, and there is none else.’” ~ Isaiah 45:18 (NASB)

 The doctrine of the Creator-creature distinction is a key biblical truth that Copeland overlooks.

 

1. Misuse of Mark 11:23-24 (Faith and the Power of Words) Scripture:
   

   “For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.” (Mark 11:23-24, NKJV)
   
   Copeland often teaches that believers can command their circumstances—like sickness, poverty, or even physical objects—by using positive confessions or “faith-filled words.” He interprets this passage to mean that Christians can exercise God-like power to create their own reality through spoken words. This teaching is often referred to as the “faith force.”
   
   Apologists argue that the passage speaks about the power of faith and prayer in God’s will, not about human beings wielding creative power like God. In context, Jesus was teaching about the importance of faith in God and trusting His will, not about using faith as a means to control reality. True biblical faith involves aligning with God’s will and seeking His kingdom, not merely using faith as a tool to get whatever we want.

“You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.” ~ James 4:3 (NASB)

 The mountain in this metaphor could be a symbol of obstacles in life, but it does not mean Christians can speak things into existence or command them to obey.

 

1. Misuse of 2 Corinthians 8:9 (“He Became Poor So That We Could Be Rich”) Scripture:
   

   “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9, NKJV)
   
   Copeland interprets this verse as a promise of financial wealth and prosperity for Christians. He teaches that Jesus became poor in a financial sense so that believers can experience material wealth on earth.
   
   Apologists emphasize that context is crucial to understanding this passage. Paul is speaking about spiritual riches—Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity’s salvation and His example of generosity, not financial wealth. In the context of 2 Corinthians 8, Paul is encouraging generosity among the Corinthian Christians, not promising them material wealth. The New Testament consistently teaches that Christians’ true riches are spiritual
   
   “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” ~ Ephesians 1:3 (NASB)
   
   and that suffering, not material prosperity, is part of the Christian journey.

“That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death.” ~ Philippians 3:10 (NASB)

“For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison.” ~ 2 Corinthians 4:17 (NASB)

 

 Copeland’s interpretation is seen as a twisting of scripture to promote the prosperity gospel.

Joyce Meyer

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1. Misuse of Philippians 4:13 (“I Can Do All Things Through Christ”) Scripture:
   

   “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13, NKJV)
   
   Joyce Meyer often quotes this verse to emphasize that Christians can achieve any personal or material success they desire through Christ’s strength. She applies it to financial success, personal health, and overcoming any kind of difficulty, implying that there is no limit to what believers can achieve if they “speak it into existence” or “declare it.”
   
   The true context of this verse is contentment in all circumstances, not a promise for personal achievement or material prosperity. Paul is saying that in times of abundance or need, he can endure through the strength Christ provides. The verse should be understood in light of Paul’s broader teaching on contentment.
   
   “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” ~ Philippians 4:11-12 (NASB)
   
   Meyer’s application distorts the message of relying on God’s strength in all circumstances and turns it into a promise of personal triumph in material pursuits. Philippians 4:13 is about spiritual endurance, not personal success in a materialistic sense.

 

1. Misuse of Isaiah 53:5 (“By His Stripes We Are Healed”) Scripture:
   

   “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5, NKJV)
   
   Joyce Meyer often quotes this passage to teach that physical healing is guaranteed for all believers because of Jesus’ suffering. She argues that “by His stripes we are healed” refers to physical healing from sickness and disease in this life.
   
   It is key to point out that Isaiah 53:5 is primarily about spiritual healing and salvation through the atoning work of Christ. While the verse includes the concept of physical healing, it is not an automatic guarantee of health in this life. 

“And He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.” ~ 1 Peter 2:24 (NASB)

(which references this passage) speaks of spiritual healing through Jesus’ death, not primarily about physical healing. The full scope of healing in the Bible includes spiritual healing from sin, but it does not promise exemption from all physical sickness or suffering in this life. Meyer’s interpretation leads to a misplaced hope that can cause believers to doubt God’s goodness when they experience illness or hardship.

 

1. Misuse of Matthew 18:19 (“Where Two or More Agree on Earth”) Scripture:
   

   “Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.” (Matthew 18:19, NKJV)

Meyer teaches that this verse means that Christians can achieve whatever they desire, as long as they agree in prayer with another believer. This is often used to encourage believers to claim their desires (such as prosperity or healing) with unwavering faith.

Apologists clarify that the context of Matthew 18:19 involves church discipline and the authority of believers to bind and loose on earth according to God’s will. This passage is not about individuals using faith to “claim” personal desires, but rather about the power of agreement in prayer for matters of spiritual authority and church governance. The verse must be understood in the context of God’s will, not personal wishes or prosperity 

“This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.” ~ 1 John 5:14-15 (NASB)

 Meyer’s application removes the passage from its original context, which leads to the prosperity gospel error.

Both Kenneth Copeland and Joyce Meyer are accused by biblical apologists of misusing scripture to support their unbiblical teachings. These examples illustrate how they take verses out of context, apply them to personal prosperity, health, and success, and create a theology of self-empowerment rather than teaching the biblical gospel of Christ’s work for salvation, spiritual transformation, and faithfulness in all circumstances. This not only misrepresents the message of Scripture but can also lead people away from the true teachings of Jesus Christ, fostering false hope and spiritual confusion.

 

More False Teachers…

The “Word of Faith” movement (also called the “Faith” movement or “Prosperity Gospel”) includes several prominent televangelists and preachers who have been associated with teaching doctrines such as the “power of positive confession,” “faith as a creative force,” and the idea that God wants all believers to be wealthy and healthy. Below are some of the most well-known figures connected to the movement:

1. Benny Hinn

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• Key Beliefs: Benny Hinn is a well-known proponent of the “prosperity gospel” and “faith healing.” He is famous for his “miracle crusades” where he claims to heal people by the power of God. He also teaches that believers can receive health, wealth, and prosperity through faith.

• Criticism: Critics point to his extravagant lifestyle, his practice of “slain in the Spirit” during healing services, and his misuse of scripture to justify financial donations as a means to receive blessings.

• Notable Quote: Hinn has said that “you can have what you say” and emphasizes that words can create reality.

2. Creflo Dollar

• Key Beliefs: Creflo Dollar teaches that God intends for Christians to be financially prosperous and successful. He frequently promotes the idea that financial blessings will come through faith, tithing, and positive confession.

• Criticism: Dollar has been widely criticized for his lavish lifestyle, including owning multiple luxury cars and private jets, which he claims are necessary for his ministry work. His teachings have also been seen as a distortion of the biblical understanding of money and wealth.

• Notable Quote: He has famously said, “God wants us to live in abundance.”

3. Paula White-Cain

• Key Beliefs: Paula White, a close associate of Donald Trump and known for her role in the “prosperity gospel,” teaches that God rewards faithfulness with material blessings and prosperity. She also has a history of preaching about “spiritual warfare” and “breaking generational curses.”

• Criticism: Critics argue that she focuses on financial gain and personal success rather than repentance and salvation. Her association with political figures, her controversial teachings, and her lavish lifestyle have attracted widespread criticism.

• Notable Quote: White has said, “We are going to begin to declare breakthrough” and has spoken about prosperity as being guaranteed through faith.

4. Kenneth Hagin (Sr.)

• Key Beliefs: Kenneth Hagin, considered the “father” of the modern Word of Faith movement, taught that faith is a “force” and that believers can use their words to create reality. Hagin’s teachings strongly emphasized “positive confession” and the power of faith to manifest healing and financial blessings.

• Criticism: Many evangelical leaders have criticized Hagin’s teachings as unbiblical and heretical, particularly his ideas about faith as a “force” that can be wielded like a tool, similar to God’s own creative power. His influence on the movement has led many to accuse him of promoting a “prosperity gospel.”

• Notable Quote: Hagin is often quoted as saying, “You can have what you say, and what you say is what you have.”

5. T.D. Jakes

• Key Beliefs: T.D. Jakes is a prominent pastor and televangelist known for his association with the Word of Faith movement, although he has also been linked to the Pentecostal tradition. His teachings focus on the “power of faith” to manifest blessings, healing, and success, and he emphasizes “speaking things into existence.”

• Criticism: Jakes has faced criticism for his controversial teachings on the Trinity (often associated with the “Oneness Pentecostal” movement, which denies the traditional doctrine of the Trinity). Critics argue that his prosperity teachings are problematic and contribute to the spread of the prosperity gospel.

• Notable Quote: Jakes has stated, “When you speak it, you release your faith.”

6. Rod Parsley

• Key Beliefs: Rod Parsley is a prominent pastor and televangelist who preaches that God wants believers to be successful in all areas of life, including financially. He emphasizes that faith and obedience to God’s word bring material blessings.

• Criticism: Parsley has been criticized for his focus on prosperity and his extravagant lifestyle. Critics also point out his tendency to manipulate scriptures to justify financial donations as a means of receiving blessings.

• Notable Quote: Parsley has said, “You are destined to be prosperous. It’s God’s will for you.”

7. David Oyedepo

• Key Beliefs: David Oyedepo is a Nigerian pastor and the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide (also known as Winners’ Chapel). He teaches that prosperity, success, and wealth are the will of God for all believers. His ministry promotes the idea that through faith, believers can “command” blessings into their lives.

• Criticism: Oyedepo has been accused of promoting materialism and distorting biblical teaching to justify his personal wealth. He is also known for his lavish lifestyle and extravagant personal property.

• Notable Quote: Oyedepo has said, “The riches of the Gentiles belong to the church.”

8. Frederick K.C. Price

• Key Beliefs: Frederick Price is one of the early pioneers of the Word of Faith movement. He was one of the first to popularize the idea that faith is a force and that Christians can use their words to shape their reality.

• Criticism: Price has been criticized for preaching that believers have the power to create their own reality and that the goal of the Christian life is financial success. Critics also note his teaching that faith is a “force” that can be manipulated.

• Notable Quote: Price is known for saying, “Faith is the currency of heaven.”

9. Bill Winston

• Key Beliefs: Bill Winston is a pastor and televangelist who teaches that God has given believers the power to prosper and that faith is a force that can be used to manifest material blessings. He often focuses on prosperity and success in life through the power of faith.

• Criticism: Critics claim that Winston distorts scripture by teaching that faith is about material gain, rather than spiritual growth, and he is also criticized for promoting wealth as a sign of God’s favor.

• Notable Quote: Winston has said, “Faith will bring you what you need if you know how to use it.”

 

10. Mike Murdock

• Key Beliefs: Mike Murdock is known for his teachings on financial prosperity, sowing seeds (financial donations) to receive blessings, and using faith to manifest personal success. His ministry is also closely tied to the Word of Faith movement.

• Criticism: Murdock’s teaching about financial seeds—giving money to receive prosperity—has been viewed as manipulative and exploitative. He is often criticized for focusing on money in his ministry and encouraging believers to give in exchange for financial blessings.

• Notable Quote: Murdock is known for saying, “Your seed determines your future.”

 

How To Know If You Have You Been Deceived

Recognizing deception, especially in the context of the Word of Faith movement or any other religious or spiritual teaching, can be challenging, especially when the message resonates with personal desires for prosperity, healing, and success. However, the Bible provides clear principles and guidance on how to discern truth from error. Here are some ways a person can recognize if they have been deceived, along with key biblical criteria to help in the process:

1. Check the Message Against Scripture

Key Principle: The Bible is the ultimate standard of truth for Christians (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Acts 17:11). Any teaching that deviates from the clear message of Scripture should be carefully scrutinized.

Questions to Ask:

• Is this teaching supported by the whole counsel of God in Scripture? Is the message consistent with what the Bible teaches about salvation, suffering, and the nature of God?

• Is scripture being taken out of context or twisted to fit a particular agenda? This is common in the prosperity gospel where verses are often cherry-picked to support claims about financial blessings, health, and success.

Example: If someone is told that God promises them health, wealth, and prosperity in this life and that all suffering is a result of insufficient faith, compare this with passages like 1 Peter 4:12-13, John 16:33, and 2 Corinthians 4:17, where suffering is seen as part of the Christian experience and not a sign of faithlessness.

 

2. Consider the Focus on Christ and the Gospel

Key Principle: True Christian teaching centers on the gospel of Jesus Christ and His work of salvation, not on self-centered desires for wealth, power, or personal success (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Galatians 1:6-9).

Questions to Ask:

• Is the gospel being preached or is the focus more on personal prosperity, success, or healing?

• Is Jesus being glorified or is the teaching about making us the center of attention, as if we can control God with our faith?

Example: Many teachings in the Word of Faith movement place heavy emphasis on personal empowerment and positive confession as a means to achieve material success, rather than focusing on repentance, forgiveness, and growing in Christlikeness.

 

3. Examine the Teachings on Suffering and Trials

Key Principle: The Bible does not promise believers that they will be free from suffering or trials (John 15:18-20; Romans 8:28; 2 Timothy 3:12). Instead, believers are called to trust God in the midst of trials and to grow in faith through suffering.

Questions to Ask:

• Am I being told that suffering is always the result of a lack of faith or that God guarantees health and wealth to all believers?

• Does the teaching align with the biblical view that suffering and trials can have a purpose (James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-5)?

Example: If you are being taught that sickness or poverty is always due to a lack of faith, it goes against passages like 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, where Paul talks about a “thorn in the flesh” that God chose not to remove, and the role of suffering in the believer’s spiritual growth.

 

4. Look at the Fruit of the Ministry or Preacher

Key Principle: Jesus taught that false prophets and deceivers will be known by their fruit (Matthew 7:15-20). This includes their character, lifestyle, and the impact of their teachings.

Questions to Ask:

• Is the ministry or preacher living a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus? Are they demonstrating humility, integrity, and a focus on God’s glory rather than self-promotion and material wealth?

• What is the fruit of the teaching? Are people growing in their love for God and others, or are they becoming more materialistic, self-centered, or disillusioned?

Example: If a preacher is living in luxury while encouraging others to give generously (often in exchange for blessings), this is a red flag. The Bible calls leaders to shepherd the flock with humility and not for selfish gain (1 Peter 5:2-3). Preachers whose lifestyles reflect a pursuit of wealth at the expense of the congregation may be deceiving others (1 Timothy 6:3-10).

 

5. Check the Emphasis on Financial Prosperity

Key Principle: The Bible teaches that the love of money is the root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10), and that true contentment is found in trusting God rather than pursuing wealth (Philippians 4:11-13; Matthew 6:19-21).

Questions to Ask:

• Is this ministry obsessed with financial success? Does it teach that financial blessings are a sign of spiritual health, or does it emphasize that we are called to be stewards of God’s resources and to use our wealth to bless others?

• Am I being told that if I give money to the ministry, God will bless me financially in return?

Example: If a preacher frequently encourages people to give large amounts of money in order to “unlock” blessings or financial prosperity, this is not a biblical concept. True giving is out of a heart of generosity, not a transaction where God “gives back” in material wealth (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

 

6. Assess Your Own Personal Relationship with God

Key Principle: Deception often occurs when someone does not have a strong foundation in their personal relationship with God and understanding of Scripture. Having a vibrant, personal relationship with God through prayer, Bible reading, and worship helps guard against deception.

Questions to Ask:

• Do I feel like I have to earn God’s favor through my actions or faith (such as giving money or making declarations)? Or am I resting in God’s grace and relying on the finished work of Christ?

• Do I have peace and joy in Christ, or am I constantly striving for more—whether in material blessings, health, or success?

Example: If you are constantly striving to achieve things to gain God’s favor, you may be deceived by a false gospel that teaches salvation or blessing through works, rather than through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).

 

7. Be Wary of “Easy Answers” to Complex Problems

Key Principle: The Bible acknowledges that life is filled with challenges, and the Christian life is not about avoiding suffering, but about trusting God through difficulties (James 1:2-4). Beware of teachings that offer “quick fixes” or easy solutions to life’s problems.

Questions to Ask:

• Is the teaching giving me easy, feel-good answers to life’s challenges (e.g., claiming wealth or health through words) rather than encouraging me to trust God and grow spiritually through trials?

• Am I being encouraged to rely on myself and my “faith” rather than on God’s wisdom, provision, and timing?

Example: A common deception in the prosperity gospel is the idea that faith is a formula for success. It oversimplifies life’s challenges and ignores the deep spiritual maturity that comes through suffering and trusting in God’s will (Romans 5:3-5).

 

Practical Steps to Avoid Deception:

1. Study the Bible Regularly: Commit to daily Bible reading and study. Be aware of how scripture is used in sermons and teachings.
2. Surround Yourself with Biblically Sound Believers: Seek out mature Christians who have a solid understanding of the Bible and who can provide guidance and accountability.
3. Pray for Discernment: Ask God for wisdom and discernment when evaluating teachings (James 1:5). The Holy Spirit helps believers recognize truth and error.
4. Question the Source: Be cautious of ministries or preachers that place heavy emphasis on material gain, health, or personal empowerment. These often signal a departure from sound biblical teaching.
5. Consult Trusted Resources: If you’re unsure about a teaching, consult sound Christian resources, books, or theologians who align with biblical truth.

 

What If I Got Saved Through Word The Word Of Faith Movement?

If someone has come to faith because of Kenneth Copeland’s ministry and genuinely knows Jesus, it is essential to recognize that their salvation and relationship with Christ are not invalidated by the errors or false teachings associated with the Word of Faith movement. The Bible assures us that God is able to work through imperfect situations (Romans 8:28) and that the sincerity of one’s faith and trust in Jesus is what matters most (Romans 10:9-10).

However, once a person has come to know Jesus and is growing in their faith, they should respond to any erroneous teachings they were exposed to in the following ways:

 

1. Be Grateful for Salvation, but Discerning of Error

Response:
While it’s important to be thankful for coming to know Jesus and trusting Him as Savior, it’s equally essential to recognize that not all teachings associated with a ministry or movement are true. Gratitude for salvation doesn’t mean blind allegiance to everything the ministry or preacher teaches. The Bible calls believers to test everything and hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

• Scriptural Example: Paul was thankful that the Philippians had received the gospel, even though they may have been exposed to various false teachings (Philippians 1:6). He encouraged them to grow in knowledge and discernment (Philippians 1:9-10).

• Application: A person who came to faith through Copeland’s ministry should appreciate the truth they received about Jesus but should begin to seek out a deeper, more biblically sound understanding of God’s Word.

 

2. Renew Your Mind with the Truth of God’s Word

Response:
The process of spiritual growth involves being transformed by the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2). If a person has been exposed to the Word of Faith teachings, they will likely need to rethink and re-educate themselves about biblical principles, especially regarding faith, wealth, healing, and suffering.

• Scriptural Example: Paul warned the believers in Galatia about returning to legalistic or deceptive teachings (Galatians 1:6-9), and he called them to understand the true gospel. In the same way, a new believer from the Word of Faith movement should study Scripture diligently and examine what they’ve been taught in light of the entire counsel of God’s Word.

• Application: Start by grounding yourself in the whole counsel of Scripture—from the promises of God regarding salvation and eternal life to the realities of suffering and trials that are part of the Christian walk. Verses like Romans 5:3-5 and 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 emphasize that suffering has a purpose in the Christian life, which directly contrasts with many Word of Faith teachings that often suggest suffering is a result of insufficient faith.

 

3. Seek Fellowship in a Biblically Sound Church

Response:
One of the best ways to grow in biblical truth is to be part of a healthy, biblically sound church that teaches the full counsel of Scripture, where you can be nurtured in the truth, receive sound doctrine, and be equipped for Christian living.

• Scriptural Example: The early Christians in Acts 2:42 “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.” Believers were to grow in the truth within the context of community.

• Application: Find a local church that preaches the gospel of grace and upholds biblical truth, where you can learn sound doctrine, grow in your faith, and be held accountable in your walk with the Lord. It’s important to fellowship with believers who can guide you into greater spiritual maturity.

 

4. Test Everything Against Scripture

Response:
It’s important to develop the habit of testing what you hear against what the Bible says (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1). Even if someone genuinely came to faith through a ministry, that does not guarantee everything the ministry teaches is accurate.

• Scriptural Example: The Bereans are commended for receiving the message of the apostles with eagerness but for examining the Scriptures daily to see if what they were taught was true (Acts 17:11).

• Application: Read your Bible regularly and compare what you hear in sermons, books, or teachings to the actual words of Scripture. If something doesn’t line up with the Bible, no matter how popular or well-known the teacher is, you should reject it. For example, teachings like “faith is a force,” or “God wants you to be rich” may not align with what Scripture teaches about godliness with contentment (1 Timothy 6:6-10).

 

5. Repent of Any False Teachings or Practices

Response:
If someone realizes that they have been influenced by false teachings (even unknowingly) and have believed things that aren’t biblical, repentance is the right response. Repentance doesn’t mean they weren’t saved when they first believed, but it involves turning from error to truth.

• Scriptural Example: John the Baptist called people to repent and bear fruit in keeping with repentance (Matthew 3:8). In the same way, someone who comes to see the truth after having followed false teachings should repent—which simply means a change of mind and turning back to the truth.
• Application: This may mean letting go of certain unbiblical beliefs like material prosperity as a guarantee for all believers, or the idea that lack of faith causes sickness. It also involves embracing the reality that Christians are called to trust God in all circumstances, including trials and suffering.

 

6. Grow in Discernment and Share the Truth with Others

Response:
A person who has come to understand the truth of the gospel and has been set free from deception should seek to share that truth with others who may still be caught up in false teachings. Sharing the gospel and helping others to grow in truth is part of the Christian calling.

• Scriptural Example: Jesus told Peter, “When you have turned again, strengthen your brothers” (Luke 22:32). Paul also encouraged Timothy to teach others so that they, too, could teach and guard the truth (2 Timothy 2:2).

• Application: If you have come to a deeper understanding of biblical truth, consider how you can help others who may still be in bondage to false teachings or misinterpretations of Scripture. This could be done through conversations, books, or even introducing them to a sound church. Remember, part of the Christian life is about passing on the truth (Matthew 28:19-20).

 

7. Focus on Jesus and the True Gospel

Response:
Ultimately, your focus should always be on Jesus and the gospel of grace, which is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16). Salvation is not about prosperity, health, or success in this life—it’s about being reconciled to God through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

• Scriptural Example: Paul was deeply concerned with preaching Christ crucified—the central message of the gospel (1 Corinthians 2:2). He warned against teaching a different gospel (Galatians 1:6-9).

• Application: Stay centered on Jesus and the truth that your salvation and security in God are not based on material blessings or your own performance. Remember, Christ alone is the source of our salvation and true fulfillment (Philippians 3:8).

If someone has come to faith through Kenneth Copeland’s ministry, and they have genuinely trusted in Jesus, their response should be grateful, but also discerning and biblically grounded. Salvation through faith in Christ is not invalidated by false teachings, but it is essential to grow in spiritual maturity by aligning one’s beliefs with the truth of Scripture. This involves leaving behind unbiblical ideas, embracing a correct understanding of the gospel, and seeking to share that truth with others. The goal is to grow in a deeper relationship with Jesus, grounded in the whole counsel of God’s Word, and to help others do the same.

If you’ve found yourself in the Word of Faith movement and your eyes are now open to the truth, then don’t wait to remove yourself from a false system and get surrounded by true believers in Jesus Christ as presented in Scripture. At DDNP we are here to help you work through the evidence and make a clear biblical choice based in truth and not some hogwash outside of scripture. Feel free to reach out and we’d be happy to jump on a call or point you in the right direction. Sometimes the truth is hard to swallow when are left eating alone. Let’s create a change together!