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1. God February 21, 2008 6:18 pm

   The funny thing about megachurches is how counter-Scriptural they run. Most of the founding churches of Christianity were small, home group type things. Very few amounted to thousands, much less tens of thousands.

   And all of them were rather strictly focused on Biblical theology, rather than the 10% return rate on investing in Joel Osteen’s teeth.

2. Joel February 21, 2008 6:21 pm

   Biblical theology schmeology… There is nothing more important to this world than Joel Osteen. Us Joel’s all understand our great importance to this world. Of course, Joel Osteen solely preaches on why you should give him more money- he’s more important than God! Right? Right???

3. Goldy lockes February 22, 2008 6:09 pm

   joel olsteen to the best of my knowledge at first refused to take over daddy’s church until the third time he finally accepted. he operates his mega million dollar church out of a former sports arena-the astro dome? or something like it. he got his loan to purchase the sports arena from bank of america (who anyone should never bank with) for $60 million. Ironically I wish to purchase the texas country hill ranch (http://www.mccollom.com/2816.htm) for 68 million and bank of america wont loan me the money to buy the ranch but maybe if i plan to convert it into a christian kool aid drinking compound they might be more willing to give me their money. anyways i happen to enjoy olsteens self help message but it shouldnt be presented in a religious box if there is no religion inside. anyways kevin gerald’s church is now multiplying as they are one church at two locations one in bellevue(good business=$$$) and the lesser in tacoma

4. Joel February 22, 2008 8:04 pm

   Haha… I can’t believe Kevin Gerald now has 2 locations. He is like a bad fast food restaurant chain- selling shoddy goods at high prices to gullible people. Joel Osteen must be his hero. Could you see Kevin Gerald pulling a Joel Osteen and buying KeyArena?!

5. Goldy lockes February 24, 2008 12:27 am

   its in the works along with the other two stadiums in seattle

6. Liliana Garcia De Alba February 28, 2008 12:12 pm

   I think Joel is a great pastor. He has helped me through my difficult times, when all I thought of was negative about my self and my self esteem. Who are we to judge, he makes people believe in themselves. Let the man be.

7. Joel February 28, 2008 12:22 pm

   Liliana,

   I understand that Joel Osteen has done good things for some people. However, it’s very important to keep in mind WHY he does it. Joel Osteen makes tens of millions of dollars off of unsuspecting, gullible and hurt people. Many people in this world do good things for others with NO recognition, NO pay, NO megachurch, nothing. Joel Osteen also is supposed to be a Christian pastor teaching primarily about the Christian God. Not doing so is a direct violation of the Christian faith. Joel Osteen has violated your, and the rest of his church’s trust by not teaching about the fundamentals of faith.

8. God February 28, 2008 4:05 pm

   As a Christian, I say Amen. To Joel Gross, ironically.

9. jimmy l staamp February 29, 2008 6:53 am

   I wounder how a true man of the cloth thinks that $360 a seat to hear the word of god is justafied.you never hear of any thang about what he does with the money. sure you pay rent on them big buildens. but do they coast all that.i have a friend who lives in pullbuilding, and can seem to get a break. how do I JUSTAFLIE that to him? I cant beleive that a message from the lord had such a high price these days. I use to watch him all the time, but now i dont even turn on th tv. that guy that does the home makeover. i bleave in him more.he is not talking like everyone esle, he is doing it, and you can see it.donations! what happen to that? i know a lot of other who feel the same way, but what does it matter , when your on top, and iam on the bottom ? i have been asking god to help this freind out.I would ask joel to pray for him , but i dont think i have that kind of money. thank you,i will just read the bible, I CAN AFFORD that. AMEN

10. Joel February 29, 2008 9:45 am

    The guy on Home Makeovers is far more believable than Joel Osteen. As you have seen from my post above, I think Joel Osteen is more or less the scum of the earth. I didn’t know that he charged $360 a seat though?! Is that true? Does Joel Osteen charge $360 a seat for his sermons?

11. Mike March 2, 2008 1:24 pm

    who cares what he does with the money, its just money. I mean there is other people out there making even more money off of people with out really doing anything good for them in return. What this man is doing is amazingly positive disregards of the reason or the money. Hello!…. look at the bigger picture people.

12. Joel March 2, 2008 1:32 pm

    Mike,

    You are right that money is just paper, but money also represents goods and services. Joel Osteen claims to be a preacher of the Christian God, but he does not follow up on his promises. People give Joel Osteen money and he refuses to preach the unadulterated word of God. Of course, there are many pastors who do the same thing, but pastor Joel Osteen is in a highly visible position at a megachurch.

    What exactly does Joel Osteen do with his money that is amazingly positive? What percentage of money donated to him goes into his pocket or to finance his personal goals, such as a television show?

    Most people who make money are open when they tell you that is their goal, my problem with Pastor Joel Osteen is that he is not open about his goals and claims to be doing something he is not. What do you think?

13. God March 2, 2008 9:52 pm

    The problem is that many churches offer both spiritual and physical returns in their community.

    My church supports with both labor and finances a county wide food/provisions bank. We’re small- maybe 200 members, and manage to make a big difference in our area. Other then owning a giant stadium downtown and earning millions, how much proportional support is Joel Osteen and his church offering?

    The Dalai Lama takes in a large sums of money but his message (regardless of its religious foundation) is one of amazingly positive influence. And most of that income gets funneled back to his stated cause.

    Osteen is a joke, as are all of the profitability pastors.

14. Joel March 3, 2008 11:58 am

    I posted new videos above on Joel Osteen’s preaching and beliefs. Joel Osteen had a chance on national television to state his beliefs as a Christian and he wussed out. Mr. Osteen also preaches non-biblical teachings to his congregation. I strongly recommend that everyone in Joel Osteen’s congregation and television viewership to review what he preaches and compare it to the Bible and find new sources of leadership for your life.

15. God March 3, 2008 7:43 pm

    I shudder.

    No wonder people find so much fault with Christians (I am officially disqualifying Joel Osteen. Pretty sure eternal damnation is the punishment for changing Scripture. And that is in the Bible). Blech!

16. Joel March 3, 2008 11:55 pm

    Yeah, Joel Osteen and I are going to be sharing the lowest level of hell… me for unspeakable crimes and Joel Osteen for being the most evil christian in history lol.

17. Deb March 5, 2008 3:07 pm

    Do you even know the guy? Are you even christian? I do not think that you should talk about things that you don`t understand. God works in mysterious ways keep that in mind, he chooses some people for some jobs.

18. Joel March 5, 2008 3:38 pm

    Deb- Perhaps God has chosen to work through me to try to show the world what certain men could be doing. Have you thought of that? The question raised by my post is not whether or not I am Christian, but if Joel Osteen is fraudulently claiming that he is one.

19. Ron March 6, 2008 9:40 am

    Judge not, and you shall not be judge. That is what the Bible says, at least the King James version. That same Bible says, “Touch not my anointing, do my Prophet no harm”. No one on this planet’s salvation is linked or attached to any Pastor, Preacher, Teacher, Prophet. So Joel Osteen is not responsible for ANYONE’s salvation, which is what the christian faith is based on. Jesuas taught on salvation. Joel Osteeen is responsible (like the rest of us) for completing “his” assisgnment that God gave him, just like I am responsible for my assignment in this life. If Joel is doing wrong or just wrong period…last time I checked God was not taking the time to reply to email blogs. Whether you are a Christian or not (I would never question it about you personally), so my advice to you is don’t question Joel Osteen’s faith, christianity…walk with God etc. Only in the case where God told you specifically what Joel’s “assignment” was should you hve the remote right to judge him or determine if he is doing right, and no matter what you think…you never have the right to JUDGE ANYONE. And for all those “poor gullible” people that you feel are being “taken” by these mega preachers at these mega churches…I say that no one can be taken advantage of if they focus on God and not the tools (preachers, ministers, etc) that God uses. Lastly, Joel Osteen is not the only tool (person) God uses, if Joel is misusing what God has entrusted him with…do know and believe Joel Osteen will answer to that….but he doesn’t and won’t have to answer to YOU!

20. Joel March 6, 2008 10:04 am

    I would never presume to criticize an individual’s faith, unless that individual was using his faith to manipulate thousands of other individuals into giving him more money (aka the “Prosperity Message”. The “tool” (as you call him) Joel Osteen certainly does not have to answer to me, BUT he MUST answer to his parishioners and the people who give him money. Joel Osteen also must answer to the American people since his business/church is run TAX-FREE! Joel Osteen receives all sorts of tax breaks and what is essentially government support for his church. By accepting public funds, he must also accept the scrutiny that comes with it.

    It is not my place to criticize private individuals in their walk with God and belief systems, but I (and you and everyone else) has the right to criticize a public figure like Joel Osteen who puts himself in a leadership position and asks for more money in each sermon.

    Also, Ron, you state in capital letters that I never have “the right” to judge anyone. Last time I looked around, I was an American with the RIGHT to freedom of speech (especially in concerns with public figures) and can judge whomever I want. You also have that right and may judge me as it seems you have done.

    I appreciate your comment, because it helps me to point out some of the ignorance of people who have fallen under megachurch pastor Joel Osteen’s sway.

21. Ann Mary March 6, 2008 1:29 pm

    I watch Joel Osteen every Sunday, and I read both of his books. I find Joel uplifting and right on with his tough love from his 2nd book. Regardless of the negative comments and thoughts from people who apparently see the glass half empty, I will continue to watch him. Isn’t there enough negative and crime in this world, and if you notice, he does relate his preaching to Bible verses. If he doesn’t specifically speak about Christ or God so he can uplift many different beliefs, all I could say is look at his followers, he’s “OBVIOUSLY” doing something right!!!!!

22. Joel March 6, 2008 1:39 pm

    Ann Mary, Joel Osteen may be uplifting and a good speaker to hear, but he isn’t in the business of making people feel good about himself. Joel Osteen is supposed to be a purveyor of God’s Word and as such he has to say some things that people may not like at times- like that he believes that Jesus is the one way to Heaven, which he refused to do on Larry King Live.

    Also, you say “look at his followers, he’s “OBVIOUSLY” doing something right!!!” What do you mean by this? He has a ton of people following him, but that doesn’t make him right or even good. Hitler had millions of people at his back and no one has been more wrong in history. I am not saying Joel Osteen is Hitler, but just that you should be careful about whom you choose to follow and what he actually believes.

23. Jordan March 7, 2008 8:26 am

    I have to agree with Joel (this Joel, host of the blog).

    If Joel Osteen claimed to have discovered the “Secret” to prosperity and wealth through positive thinking and sold people on his television shows, his books, and his tours based on this positive thinking strategy, then he wouldn’t be doing anything wrong. He’s created a product, he’s accurately marketing it, and its up to the individual to decide what it means or does not mean.

    As it stands today, Joel Osteen is taking the Christian religion, at least 2000 years old, adapting it (despite specific commands NOT to change its basic principles in the Bible), selling it as HIS way to salvation, wealth, good health, and “prosperity”, without acknowledging that he is subverting its core beliefs.

    Sorry to say, that not only makes him a liar, a cheat, a sinner, but it also makes him a false prophet.

    If you want to support Joel Osteen the positive thinker, fine. But get him away from the forefront of the modern church. We’ll continue to fail to reach people’s lives in a way that brings them salvation if we don’t.

24. BlackRooster March 7, 2008 9:16 am

    Im waiting for the day when the headlines in every newspaper reads “Joel Osteen molested a 6 year old boy”. We then find out that Joel had all along lured little boys into thinking that it’s OK to touch his penis because it has a positive reaction and makes him feel good.

25. Joel March 7, 2008 9:37 am

    Jordan- I agree with you 100% on Joel Osteen’s take on the prosperity message. Joel Osteen is essentially subverting religion to his own ends (haven’t we heard of this a lot before lol).

    BlackRooster- I can see the headline for Joel Osteen’s molesting children already: “Megachurch Pastor Joel Osteen Scandal”… just like all the headlines for Pat Robertson, Ted Haggard, etc.

26. Jordan March 7, 2008 9:48 am

    It happens a lot and too any institution that people put their trust in. Government, schools, businesses, and even science have all been abused to take advantage of people. The biggest part of the problem is that people don’t adhere to their beliefs other then in principle. Its much easier to miss those problems if you’re squinting into the sun.

    Pat Robertson, as far as I know, hasn’t had a sex scandal. Just a lot of weird accusations and theories. And until Joel Osteen has shown that the huge smile of his is anything more than a sales tactic, I’ll refrain from commenting on him and children.

27. Anthony March 9, 2008 3:27 am

    First off, why would you say something like, “I’m waiting for the day when I hear that he molested a child?” What kind of person would even say something stupid like that? How would you feel if someone said, I’m waiting for the day when Joel Gross or BlackRooster molests a child. It’s not so funny when it’s you is it?

    Second, how do you know what his motives are? Have you personally talked to the man? Do you have any records of what his church does with the money? You said he’ll be dead in 30 years so that’s why he leases the building, did he tell you this personally? Let me ask you this; let’s say you are a pastor of a church. Your current building seats 1000 people. After a few years your congregation grows and you end up having to turn families away because there is no place inside for them to sit or even stand. Wouldn’t it make sense to get a bigger building so that everyone who wants to attend can?

    Third, who cares if he wasn’t the founder of his church. What father wouldn’t want his son to take over his ministry after he passes? That was probably his father’s dream, to have one of his children continue what he started and even though Joel had no experience he became very successful over time in continuing with what his father began.

    I’m not saying Joel Osteen is perfect, no woman or man on this Earth is. I never personally met the man so I can’t say anything negative about him. All I can say is that he influences a lot of people and seems to live a good positive life rather than say he’s an imposter and is going to molest a child, or get caught in a drug or sex scandal. It seems to me like you want something bad to happen to him. I’ve watched his free podcasts on iTunes and I’ve never heard him ask for donations like some of these other preachers do. Now I’m sure they take donations off the air before/after his sermons but all churches do that so that’s nothing new.

    Finally, when you said “Please find me a single megachurch pastor who is NOT a scam-running, meth-eating, prostitute-abusing criminal. Anyone?” How about Billy Graham? I’ve never heard anything bad about him during his almost 50 years in the Ministry but I guess you’re waiting for him to molest a child too huh?

28. tammy March 9, 2008 7:57 am

    you say that because joel olsteen is a public figure that you have the right to judge him, but in the bible does it say do not judge others except public figures, i dont think so. i have watched mr. olsteen on t.v plenty and i also have his books, and he dosent sit there and ask people the entire time for money. he doesnt tell people that if they dont give him money that they will go to hell, people that listen to him have their own mind of whether they want to donate money to his ministy. when you receive money from who ever do you advertise to the entire world what you will spend that money on? i dont think so! it kinda sounds like to me that you may even be jealous of what he is doing. who are we to judge? but i will pray for you!

29. Joel March 9, 2008 2:35 pm

    Anthony- Thank you for your intelligent and well-thought out reply, it’s been the first reasoned argument raised by people in the comments. I was not serious with my waiting for Joel Osteen to molest someone comment, I was just trying to make a point that it seems more than half of these megachurch televangelists end up having horrible revelations brought out about them (Haggard and his meth-addicted transsexual prostitutes come to mind here). Anthony, you also tried to point out that Billy Graham is an upright man without scandals or issues. You neglected though to research Billy Graham before you made this statement- Billy Graham was actually recorded on the Nixon tapes making many anti-Semitic jokes and saying, “Journalism in Washington D.C. has declined greatly since the Jews became involved.” At the time (1970’s) the religious community became very upset at him for this, but time has washed away most people’s memories of Billy Graham’s hate infused tirades. Anthony, I really appreciate your thoughts, but I think you didn’t answer the primary issue I raised with Joel Osteen: Why will America’s top preacher not openly discuss basic tenets of Christianity? How can he go on Larry King Live and not tell the world what it takes to be a follower of God???

    Tammy- The Bible says, “Judge not lest thee be judge.” The Bible also says, “Homosexuality is an abomination” and “if one man gets in a fight with another one, and one man’s wife comes out and grabs the other man’s testicles her hand is to be cut off” and all sorts of other ridiculous things. The Bible is full of people being judged by other people and God approving it. Jesus threw the money changers out of the temple and I am here to throw Joel Osteen’s mindless sacreligious drivel out of the largest church in America. Joel Osteen’s behavior enrages most Christians in America because he won’t stand up for the most basic principle of the faith- that the only way to God and Heaven is through Jesus Christ.

30. Anthony March 10, 2008 3:28 am

    Joel, let me ask you this (and this may spark a whole new debate but oh well): Do YOU believe that only Christians go to Heaven?

    That is a question that Christians themselves can’t agree on. Some will say that only Christians make it to Heaven, some will say those that only those who accept Christ into their lives will make it no matter what religion they’re from, and still others will say it takes more than just going to church every Sunday and reading the Bible to make it to Heaven, you actually have to live a positive Christ-like life. And there are still others who will give different reasons and answers.

    My point is that even Christians themselves debate on what it takes to get to Heaven. Joel is simply one of the people who believes that accepting Christ and living a positive life is what it takes to make it to Heaven, that’s his view of Christianity. Thus, he gears his sermons along those lines rather than just read from the Bible on what you should and shouldn’t do. Who’s to say he’s wrong for doing this. His Christian view is different from your Christian view, that doesn’t him wrong and you right or vice versa.

    Also, he ends all of his sermons with the exact prayer, “Lord Jesus, I repent of my sins, come into my heart, I make you my Lord and Savior.” He then says that you should get into a good Bible based Church, notice he doesn’t say that he wants you to join HIS Church.

    So if you don’t like him as a viewer then you should take his advice and join your local Bible based Church. I don’t see anything wrong with this? I actually believe he is converting more people to Christianity than anyone else in America. I’m in my 20’s myself and when I talk to other people about religion most believe that if you live a good life, help others, accept Christ, and don’t commit any crimes or adultery, then you will make it to Heaven (not in that order). Joel seems to think along those same lines.

    One final thought. Joel, I assume you are a Christian yourself. (Others please feel free to answer as well) Let’s say you have 2 Pastors. 1 Pastor knows the Bible front to back and can quote exact scriptures and is a great speaker but lives a so-so life, let’s say he has a drug problem. Another Pastor is fairly new and is still learning but he makes a few mistakes while giving his sermon, he gets things mixed up a lot. However, he lives a positive life in the community and as a family man. Now which one is the more qualified Christian? The one who is mis-quoting the Bible or the one who has a drug problem?

    And I quote from your article, “I actually think that Joel Osteen operating a secular “Christian” church is more of a scandal than Ted Haggard and his transsexual prostitutes and meth!”

31. Joel March 10, 2008 9:06 am

    Anthony, I think the best thing that I can do here is go to what the Bible says on pastors like Joel Osteen. My subjective moral judgements do not matter when it comes to what the Bible clearly states. I understand that my opinions of right and wrong should not sway you, but I ask you to consider what the Bible says on the matter:

    “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” —John 3:16 (NIV)

    “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” —Romans 3:23 (NIV)

    “For the wages of sin is death.” —Romans 6:23 (NIV)

    “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” —Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV)

    These are the basic verses that every Christian who has accepted Christ knows. Now for the verses that clearly state that only Christians who believe the above will go to Heaven:

    -John 3:3: “…no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.”
    -John 3:15: “…everyone who believes in him [Jesus] may have eternal life.”
    -John 3:18: “…whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”
    -John 14:6: “Jesus answered: ‘No one comes to the Father except through me’”
    -Acts 3:23: “And it shall be, that every soul that shall not hearken to that prophet, shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.” (ASV)
    -Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved”
    -Romans 10:9: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved”
    -Hebrews 9:28: “…he [Christ] will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him”
    -1 John 5:12: “…he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.”

    Anthony, the nine quoted verses above clearly state that only Christians can go to Heaven. Now, if Joel Osteen truly believed and was a pastor of a “Bible-based church”, would he preach a false message of hope to people? Joel Osteen is essentially subverting the word of God, which motivated me to write this post. I am not sure why Joel would do this, but my postulation (as above) is that he is doing it for financial gain. Joel Osteen’s father was a pastor and he has been a pastor for a long time now and he should know better than most people the MOST basic tenets of Christianity. Ignorance is an excuse for new Christians (as long as they work at it), but not for “a shepherd of the flock”.

    Do you know what the Bible says about false teachers like Joel Osteen?

    -2 Timothy 4:3,4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth , and be turned aside to fables.

    -Matthew 7:15,16 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits….

    -Acts 20:29-31 For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves . Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.

    -2 Peter 2:1 But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

    -2 Peter 3:16,17 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;

    -Colossians 2:8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.

    -Hebrews 13:9 Do not be carried about with various and strange doctrines. For it is good that the heart be established by grace, not with foods which have not profited those who have been occupied with them.

    The Bible is very, very harsh in its condemnation of people who change, twist or leave out parts of it’s doctrine. False leaders (Joel Osteen), to me, are more disgusting than someone who is a hypocrite (Ted Haggard).

    Why do I care what Joel Osteen does or doesn’t do in his church, especially seeing that I am not religious? People who are cheats, fakes, and phonies really bother me. I have written quite a few other posts on various community leaders who lead people astray for their own personal gain. My tax dollars go to support Joel Osteen (every church in America is exempt from taxes, but Joel Osteen is making millions tax-free teaching his “Prosperity Message” when he is basically just another self-help guru). I also am very wary of megachurch pastors (I used to attend one and have seen many on television)- they often seem to be some of the craziest people (Jim Jones-”Want some Kool Aid?”)

32. Jordan March 10, 2008 9:32 am

    Its very funny and insightful that the non-Christian in this discussion is quoting the most Scripture. Sad, actually.

    What Joel(blog) says is true- Scriptures are very clear on several things. First off, that they are divinely inspired, eternal, and accurate. Secondly, any effort to subvert, modify, or pervert the message is a crime against God and one that is punishable by damnation. Thirdly, over and over again, Jesus Christ’s sacrifice is the only way by which man can be forgiven and enter heaven.

    There isn’t, or shouldn’t, be any debate in the Christian community about these points. If anyone is willing to argue against those points, I would venture to say that they cannot or will not enter heaven. I’m not judging others here, and I am certainly not capable of saying you can and you cannot to anyone. But the Bible doesn’t mince words on the inherent importance of those ideas.

    There are a lot of good people in the world, who do good things, and probably will exit with more of a positive impact than negative. But that doesn’t get you to heaven. The basis of all teaching is that you can’t earn your way into heaven. No amount of good deeds or actions gets you there.

    Joel Osteen has no right, no authority, and no platform to teach any thing other than what is in the Scripture. His misuse of particular verses to promote “prosperity” or “word-faith” doctrine is tantamount to heresy and “false prophecy”. His public denial of knowledge about how one can get to heaven is a violation of God’s command towards pastors to lead not a single of his flock astray. And even though his sin is not one of sexual impurity, drug abuse, or racism, it is the same in that he denies his existence even though it is publicly displayed before all.

    Regardless of that sin, there is forgiveness if it is sought, but we cannot believe that he seeks grace if he goes on teaching and living as he does.

    Osteen’s impact on the Christian world is good in that it introduces a large audience to God. It is fatal in its falsehoods and lies.

33. bensie March 10, 2008 4:20 pm

    Joel, You’ve raised several objections to Joel Osteen’s ministry. First, no where in scripture does it say that a church has to display a cross. (I attend a church that doesn’t). Actually, the first symbol of Christianity was a fish. Are you implying that all churches should display a fish to be truly Christian, or that a Christian church really isn’t a Christian church if it doesn’t display a cross? That’s pretty narrow-minded, isn’t it? It’s only a symbol, just as a wedding ring is a symbol of marriage. Not all people wear one. A symbol doesn’t make a building a Christian church.

    You mentioned that Joel Osteen televangelist gets lots of tax breaks, but there are a lot of rich people that also get tax breaks of some kind, and they don’t answer to “the people”. Why are you so insistent that Joel O. do so?

    Thirdly, I’ve been listening to megachurch preacher Joel Osteen for a couple of months now, and I have never heard him ask for money. Where are you getting your information from when you said “always asking for money”?

    Fourthly, I hear Joel Osteen.com talk about God and Jesus in every sermon I’ve heard. I’m not sure what words you’re listening to. Maybe you need a hearing exam.

    I find it interesting that you have quoted Scripture to prove your points, but when a blogger (Ron) quoted “Judge not…” you disqualified his Scripture, listing your reason as freedom of speech. So I ask you, does not Joel Osteen have the same freedom of speech to preach Christianity? You see, a true Christian matures through the years, changing view points as he/she grows in understanding more about God. As a young Christian, I thought that my part was to accept God and God’s part was to give me everything I wanted: a good life, a good husband, good (and obedient) kids. It took me quite a while, and a few heartaches, to realize that that was not God’s Christianity. That was my version of Christianity. Do you suppose that Joel Osteen is maturing, the same as all of us, and that as he grows older and closer to God, his view point will change as well as his way of ministering? Mine has. My husband’s has. My friends’ have.

    Why does it bother you that Joel Osteen didn’t say on Larry King Live that one has to accept Jesus to get to heaven? (Jehovah God’s heaven, so as not to add to the confusion). He says it every Sunday at the end of his sermon. When I became a Christian, I didn’t accept Jesus. I accepted God. It was God, not Jesus, that I asked into my heart, because I didn’t know differently. But God accepted my decision anyway. Since God and Jesus are the same, one in Spirit form and one in human form, what difference does it make? Joel Osteen ministries said that to be saved one has to accept God. That is true. That is accurate. But you can also say that one has to accept Jesus Christ to be saved. That also is true and accurate. And people around the world might even have different names for Him. In the city of Athens, they had a statue to the “Unknown God”, so Paul started preaching to them about the unknown god, and in the end, Paul told them His name. Missionaries have even told of very remote tribes knowing about and accepting Jehovah God without anyone telling them about Him at all. How is this possible? Let’s look at Romans 1:19-20: “…because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.” These remote groups of people had never heard the name of Jesus (so how could they ask Him into their hearts by the name of Jesus?), yet they were saved, born again, going to heaven. Because of this scripture, blogger Joel, I challenge you to accept Jesus Christ, God, Jehovah, as your personal Savior. The scripture above says all are without excuse…..Another blogger has stated that if Joel is doing something wrong that God disapproves of, God Himself will take care of it. Maybe I’m wrong, but I don’t remember God using someone like you to expose the wrong doings of Jim Bakker, Ted Haggard, Jimmy Swaggert, etc, so I don’t accept your argument that maybe God is using you to expose Joel Osteen You say that this message is 2000 years old but that Joel Osteen is selling it his way, and making money off it, and that he is also not preaching the true tenants of Christianity. Well, one of the basic tenants of Christianity is that if you break part of the law, you’re guilty of breaking the whole law, James 2:10,11: “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all. For he who said, ‘Do not commit adultery,’ also said, ‘Do not commit murder.’ Now if you do not commit adultery, but do commit murder, you have become a transgressor of the law.” So, let’s extrapolate with this tennent, like you appear to be fond of doing, blogger Joel. Since you’ve been wrong about Joel Osteen.com on at least one point, then you are guilty of wrong accusations on all points. Agreed? It seems to me that this whole issue is because Joel Osteen isn’t preaching the way you think he should. If you were a believer in Jesus Christ, I might give your arguments some credence. But since you aren’t, give me one good reason why I should even consider what you have to say? I’m as much against the megachurch money whiners as you are. They disgrace and discredit my Lord. If Joel Osteen is truly transgressing, then God will deal with it. But there is also a Scripture that says we are to honor those who preach the word, and those who are in authority over us. (1 Peter 2?17). I wouldn’t want to be in the place of dishonoring one of God’s anointed. Joel Osteen might be making some mistakes. But who doesn’t? We aren’t perfect. Only Jesus was/is perfect. Therefore, God uses imperfect people to do His work here. And He works in each life, as we allow Him, to make us more and more like Christ. But none of us will reach that point here on this earth. The perfection comes only in heaven.

34. Jordan March 10, 2008 9:48 pm

    First off I would like to point out that Joel (blogger) is not a Christian, nor does he claim to be.

    The points he raises, as well as his questions, are aimed more at Osteen’s particular ministry, his approach to it, and whether or not it is Biblical.

    Joel Osteen can be a sinner, and no doubt is, without risking any type of damnation or divine retribution. But as a pastor, or shepherd, of a congregation of substantial size, he has a responsibility to preach the Bible as it is written and not how he interprets it at this point in its maturity.

    Saying that what the Bible lays down as laws, can change at different points of maturity is foolish. The law is the law. It has no value or potency if we allow it to be bent all the time.

    So let’s review:
    1.Don’t change, subtract, or modify the Scripture (Joel Osteen does on a regular basis as a part of his brand of teaching).
    2.The ONLY way to heaven is through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice. Even your repentance, bensie, would be meaningless if not for him (even if it was heartfelt, etc) You just can’t be forgiven if he didn’t die on the cross.
    So you can’t be saved without Christ.
    3. The Bible says that if you lead even one of the body of Christ astray that you risk damnation. I’d say Joel Osteen has about 2 million to account for.

35. ally March 11, 2008 11:17 am

    Joel Osteen is a FINE man of GOD. If u all have queries or comments u should pursue it in a rational manner. Do not deliberately insult a man of GOD. Do not judge, for u won’t want anyone to judge u.What GOD bless no man curse!

36. Jordan March 11, 2008 1:16 pm

    “We” all have queries and comments, and are pursuing them in a very rational manner. You’ll notice we have laid a solid groundwork for our criticisms by focusing on what Osteen has said himself, on what the Bible says, and how the two match or fail to match.

    Profits and finances are not necessarily signs of God’s blessing. There is a verse somewhere that says something about rich men having a difficult time finding their way to heaven….

37. Anthony March 12, 2008 2:19 am

    Joel, in reading the nine verses you listed, I don’t see how you can say it clearly states that only Christians go to Heaven. Where does it explicitly say that? It’s what you are interpreting. To me, it means that only those who accept Christ in their lives will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. I can say that you are intrepreting the Bible verses incorrectly and thus you are a false prophet.

    Speaking of false prophets, I personally don’t see Joel Osteen as one. To me, a false prophet is someone like Benny Hinn who claims to cure cancer, AIDS, and other diseases. Or, BET Pastor Kerney Thomas who I watched the other night and thought it was a comedy sketch or something, I couldn’t believe the guy. (if you haven’t seen him type in kerney thomas on youtube) If you send him money, he will send you a blood of Jesus prayer cloth to fix all of your problems. Another false prophet to me would be David Koresh who claimed to be Jesus. These are people that I think of when the Bible mentions false prophets. Joel is telling people to join their local church and put God first in their lives. There’s nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

    The point I want to make is that you have no right to judge Joel Osteen. No man or woman has any right to judge any other man or woman’s faith for that matter. The problem with today’s society is that people always want to judge others without looking at themselves. When you get to the gates of Heaven, God isn’t going to ask you to list all the reasons why Joel Osteen shouldn’t get in, he’s going to know what you did in YOUR life. If you don’t agree with what megachurch televangelist Joel Osteen.com says then ignore his sermons and tv programs and continue attending your own Church or begin your own Ministry. All the time you spend breaking Joel Osteen down could be geared toward something more positive. Joel, you seemed to be a very educated person who has a keen interest in the Bible so maybe you could pursue that futher in some way.

    Let people make their own decisions about whether they accept Joel Osteen’s word or not. Some will see it your way and some won’t, there’s nothing wrong with either choice.

38. Jesus March 12, 2008 8:11 am

    My Father does not want your money! He wants your love. Either give that or stay in hell!

    As far as money goes in relation to giving in the name of my Father or me, we demand that the dollar amount be accounted for for the entire flock to see, before the church doors are open if you want your offerings to start accounting for something!

    And that the money collected be used for the poor and hungry, as well as the sick. We don’t have a giving problem in our churches, what we have is a sharing problem ~ why do you think I threw the money changers out to start with?

    Making money off of my Fathers words, are you that lost? You money collectors have forgotten who you serve and who the money given in the name of God should be shared with, and that a true man of God would be served last!

    I dare you to debate that with me ~ especially in the after life! Now come together and come clean, or shut your mouth and especially your devil worshipping money hiding churches.

    Do you really think my Father or myself is impressed by the churches you build to us, or the love you show to each other? The only thing we see is our love split into a million different religions, for a million different reasons & money made off of it is by far the worst!

39. Jesus March 12, 2008 8:37 am

    For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, AGAINST SPIRITUAL WICKEDNESS IN HIGH PLACES!

40. Jordan March 12, 2008 10:28 am

    Ummm…. Anthony…. A person who accepts Christ into their hearts is by definition a Christian….

41. Anthony March 12, 2008 10:49 am

    Jordan, I accept Christ into my heart but I am not a Christian. I also know others who feel the same way. You can accept Christ into your heart and be a Muslim.

42. bensie March 12, 2008 2:29 pm

    Jordan. Well, ok then. The Bible says that women are not to talk in church and that they are to have their heads covered. Do you comply with this? If not, then you, by your own definition, would be in the same boat as Joel O. According to the Bible, Jesus said that “This generation shall not pass away until all these things take place.” (Matt. 24:34). The verses prior to that tell of what will be going on on earth when Jesus returns. Well, the generation did pass away, but there was no return of Jesus. So, how do you interpret this verse? Also, how do you interpret verses about the rapture? Churches have split over this subject.

    And Anthony, I have to agree with Jordan. By accepting Jesus Christ into your heart, you are accepting all of the principles upon which Christ taught. The Bible also says you cannot serve two masters. Christianity and Islam are diametrically opposed; therefore you cannot be part of both and receive the promises of either, because you’re double minded. Accepting Christ is only the first step. It takes effort to develop a relationship, and that’s what Christianity is … a relationship with the Living God. Actually, there are no other gods. There is only one God. All the other gods talked about in all the other religions were first thought up by man. Jehovah was never thought up by anyone.

43. Jordan March 12, 2008 4:44 pm

    So we are in agreement on the Islam thing… The Bible is very clear that you can only have one God… You can’t accept Christ as your Lord, without violating the tenets of Islam…

    And in regards to the rules that your are examining, you are ignoring the purpose of the verse- women were to be covered in church so as not to create a distraction from the teaching. Likewise, a woman speaking in church would have caused an uproar in the age when the verses were written.

    Their intent has more to do with not being a distraction than anything else.

44. JOEL OLSTEEN March 16, 2008 1:02 am

    BOW BEFORE ME!!!

45. Joel March 20, 2008 8:36 am

    Bensie, If the Bible tells you to sit in church with your head covered and be quiet, why do you not do so? Are you superior to the Bible in that you can pick and choose what to believe? This is the same problem that Joel Osteen has; he picks and chooses what he likes and doesn’t. Unfortunately, Joel Osteen doesn’t pick very much of the Bible that he likes.
    The Bible says that you should either believe all of it or none of it and that if you are lukewarm, God will spit you out of his mouth. You and Joel Osteen would both benefit from reviewing the following verses:
    -Colossians 2:8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.
    -Hebrews 13:9 Do not be carried about with various and strange doctrines. For it is good that the heart be established by grace, not with foods which have not profited those who have been occupied with them.

    Anthony, you are correct in only those people who have accepted Christ into their hearts can go to heaven, but when I said Christians, I was referring to these people. Also, you judged Benny Hinn and the other televangelists as frauds and then tell me that it is a sin for me to judge a supposed man of God like Joel Osteen. What I am doing is trying to tell you that Joel Osteen is a fraud just like those faith healers, but in a different way. His motive is the same (profit & power), but his means are different (subverting the word of God into a self-help guide instead of teaching it as the guide to God).

    Jesus- I sure hope you aren’t religious… you are taking on the character of Christ. Something tells me that if there is a heaven, that is a whole lot worse than impersonating a police office on earth would be. Sounds like something Joel Osteen would do.

    P.S.- Have any of you guys ever actually WATCHED Joel Osteen’s television program?! Watching him gives me shudders; something is very wrong with that man.

46. Sean March 21, 2008 12:00 pm

    Well, to the dismay of many bloggers on this site, I am not hear to argue. I would simply like to make a couple of points.
    1. Paul speaks of infants in Christ being fed milk instead of meat (in reference to the immaturity of the Christians at the time). This scripture clearly states that there are those who need to be fed milk and when they grow spiritually they will be ready for the meat of the scriptures. It all has to do with understanding the word of God according to your spiritual maturity. So, clearly, there are those who need to be fed in this manner. Is a “milk only” diet good? Of course not. Does it allow for spiritual growth? Of course not. It it a part of the spiritual process? Absoutely, it is.

    2. The definition of a false prophet is “one who will cause people to give their allegiance to, and even worship a god other than the one true God”. In the ever-so-popular YouTube video of Joel Osteen on Larry King, Joel does not deny the divinity of Christ. He agreed that Christ is the only way to Heaven but added that he, being a man of flesh and blood, does not have the power to decide in the end who goes to Heaven and who doesn’t….that’s all he said. Never once did he say that that you can inherit the kingdom of God without Jesus Christ.

    3. Paul spoke of three different positions in the process of salvation. There are those who plant the seed, those who water the seed and the one who makes it grow. Some of us, as I believe Joel Osteen is, are seed planters. This simply means that the word of God is presented in an elementary fashion for those who need to be fed milk as infants. Then there are those who water the seed, i.e. Charles Stanley, Chuck Swindoll, Andrew Womack and other pastors who focus on the in-depth study of the scriptures. And of course, there is only one who makes it grow and that’s God.

    My point is this. There are different roles for different people. Each having one thing in common: they all preach the word of God. Are Joel Osteens messages milk for infants? Maybe. Are his messages a little shallow for those who require a more in-depth study of the scriptures. Maybe. But ask yourself this. Does Joel Osteen preach another god. No. Does he give the glory to anyone other than God? No. Does he use anyone other than Jesus as a starting point in a prayer of salvation? No. Paul said in 1Corinthians that when all else is gone (prophecies will cease, tounges will be stilled and where there is knowledge it will pass away) there will be three things left: faith, hope and love. And the greatest of these is love. Now ask yourself this. Does Joel Osteen preach faith? Absolutely. Does he preach hope? Absolutely. And most importantly, does he preach love? Absolutely, and most notably all in Jesus’ name at the end of each message.
    Joel Osteens place in the ministry may not live up to your expectations or preconcieved notions of what an ideal pastor should be, but then who does. And when all is said and done, the approval of man will mean very little, if anything, in the kingdom of God.

47. Gracie March 23, 2008 8:28 am

    Joel Osteen.com is a wonderful man of God..
    Jesus is proud of Joel Osteen because he condemns no one like Christ ..
    Thats enough..
    To all the condemners of Joel Osteen
    “Take the log out of your own eye first”
    Judge yourself first!!! Look inside yourself FIRST..Look at all your own sins and things you’re not proud of in yourself Then if you have any stones left to throw {which you won’t}} Toss away..because NOBODY including Joel will be standing there for you to throw stones at..Our Lord will have resurrected HIM home..

    Where will you end up when this life ends…Do you know??
    Hallelujah What a Savior!!! {Jesus Christ}} He Lives!!

48. Jordan March 23, 2008 3:55 pm

    Thank you for offering nothing with rationale. We all appreciate your contribution to this blog. It basically seems to amount to a big “because!”

49. Gloria March 23, 2008 7:25 pm

    I have heard Joel Osteen many times, and he teaches the same method that Robert Schuller from the Crystal Cathderal uses,
    The Power of positive thinking, and today a lot of people need to hear that sort of preaching.
    When I read some of these emails, some of you sound like if
    Jesus came back today and walked this earth, you would have him crucified all over again,because you sure don’t sound very christian like.

50. Jordan March 23, 2008 7:37 pm

    The problem is his teaching style, and where it defers from Schuller’s, is that it isn’t soundly grounded in Scripture. Schuller teaches the ability of people to overcome with the assistance of God. Osteen seems to believe that faith is enough regardless of situation. Health, wealth, and influence! That’s what we get for being Christians- but not in the least Scriptural. And definitely he doesn’t teach the message of salvation.

    So no, his message isn’t what people need to hear. And what most of us are saying, is very Christian.

51. Cole March 26, 2008 11:22 am

    How is Christ being glorified in the scrutinizing of Joel Osteen ministries? If you feel that he is wrong in his teachings, books, megachurch, or even his approach to life, then pray for him. Pray that GOD would open his eyes so that he could see that he is wrong(I mean, if he is wrong).

    Think about it, when we are wrong, but believe that we are right, doesn’t Christ open our eyes to our errors? So why can’t he do the same for Osteen (I mean, if he is wrong)?

    I’m sure there will be some comment, questioning, or correctioning of the phrase “if he is wrong”, but the truth of the matter is, you really don’t know. You don’t know, if in his heart, whether he wants to please GOD, or to make money, so why even waste your time debating that issue? You could be using this time praying for him, and his flock.

52. Joel March 26, 2008 11:32 am

    Cole- The scrutiny of Joel Osteen’s ministry is a way of ensuring that those megachurch pastors and others who have large influence in America are on the right track. I think it is ridiculous to claim that God doesn’t want us to ever try to correct other people’s paths. Do you ever read your Bible? Joel Osteen’s ministry is off track and if he wants to have a Bible-based ministry than he should make some changes. America is a free country and Joel Osteen’s ministry doesn’t need to change if he doesn’t want it to, but perhaps us who are pointing out Joel Osteen’s mistakes are tools of God. Or maybe there is no God and we are calling out a scam artist. No matter how you look at it though, someone needs to correct the Joel Osteen Ministry.

53. Cole March 26, 2008 12:33 pm

    Yes I read my Bible, and thanks for asking. Well, you being
    a tool of GOD used to “point out Joel Osteen’s mistakes” should pray that his eyes would come open to his wrong teachings (I mean, if he is wrong). Or better yet, pray that you (being the tool used to point out Joel Osteen’s mistakes)could run across his path, and with your knowledge, love, and sweet spirit, correct his mistakes (I mean, if he is wrong).

54. Jordan March 27, 2008 10:08 pm

    Alright- You read your Bible and seem to be a Christian.

    If you believe that the Bible is absolutely right, and is the standard for correctness, then you know that Osteen’s ministry and preaching are wrong.

    Secondly, it is equally important for people to warn Joel Osteen’s “flock” that he is wrong. Osteen can choose his own path, but if he chooses to take others with him, out of care and concern it is important to warn those he might take with him.

    And I’m sure Joel would love the opportunity to meet Joel. And he would definitely use his sweet spirit to convince him of his error.

55. Cole March 28, 2008 10:03 am

    Joel, you seem like a nice guy, and I’ll be praying that this “Joel and Joel” meeting will take place. I’ll also pray that GOD gives you the wisdom, coupled with love, so that when you meet Osteen, you will be equipped with all you need to show him where he has gotten off (I mean, if he is wrong).

56. Joel March 28, 2008 2:17 pm

    Cole, I would definitely love to be able to have a talk with Pastor Joel Osteen at some point and I would be kind, but clear on how I think he is misleading people. Somehow I doubt that the biggest pastor in America would bother meeting with a disgruntled small-time blogger though . I appreciate your feedback on my blog and I hope that you continue to participate, you have an intelligent and eloquent way of discussing sensitive topics.

57. Armando March 28, 2008 3:16 pm

    The whole issue here is not whether Joel Osteen is a bad person or whatever. The issue is whether he is a Christian and whatever it is that he is “pastor” of is a Church. Since Joel does not seem to be able to articulate even the basics of Christian apologetics, and considering that He never espouses any Biblical doctrines in his sermons, one can easily presume that he is not a Christian and Lakewood is not a Christian Church.

    Jesus said it very plainly when He said that He will deny those who deny Him. Joel Osteen is clearly ashamed of Jesus. For Joel, Jesus is a stumblingblock. My question is to what? What is the ultimate purpose of His church? Jesus is the way to the Father. The cross is His symbol. If one denies that, one is denying Jesus and can not be considered a Christian!

    Joel Osteen.com cloaks himself with all the trappings of an evangelical church without espousing its traditional beliefs. Most people that believe in him do so because they assume that he believes as a typical evangelical does. They ascribe beliefs and doctrines to him that he never espouses. The real danger of Joel Osteen.com is how he is changing the definition of what an evangelical Christian really is. Many that follow him only offer simplistic drivels that are not Christian at all and in fact contradict the teachings of Jesus.

58. Sean March 30, 2008 7:41 am

    Well, to the dismay of many bloggers on this site, I am not hear to argue. I would simply like to make a couple of points.

    1. Paul speaks of infants in Christ being fed milk instead of meat (in reference to the immaturity of the Christians at the time). This scripture clearly states that there are those who need to be fed milk and when they grow spiritually they will be ready for the meat of the scriptures. It all has to do with understanding the word of God according to your spiritual maturity. So, clearly, there are those who need to be fed in this manner. Is a “milk only” diet good? Of course not. Does it allow for spiritual growth? Of course not. Is it a part of the spiritual process? Absoutely, it is.

    2. The definition of a false prophet is “one who will cause people to give their allegiance to, and even worship a god other than the one true God”. In the ever-so-popular YouTube video of Joel Osteen on Larry King, Joel does not deny the divinity of Christ. He agreed that Christ is the only way to Heaven but added that he, being a man of flesh and blood, does not have the power to decide in the end who goes to Heaven and who doesn’t….that’s all he said. Never once did he say that that you can inherit the kingdom of God without Jesus Christ.

    3. Paul spoke of three different positions in the process of salvation. There are those who plant the seed, those who water the seed and the one who makes it grow. Some of us, as I believe preacher Joel Osteen is, are seed planters. This simply means that the word of God is presented in an elementary fashion for those who need to be fed milk as infants. Then there are those who water the seed, i.e. Charles Stanley, Chuck Swindoll, Andrew Womack and other pastors who focus on the in-depth study of the scriptures. And of course, there is only one who makes it grow and that’s God.

    My point is this. There are different roles for different people. Each having one thing in common: they all preach the word of God. Are Joel Osteens messages milk for infants? Maybe. Are his messages a little shallow for those who require a more in-depth study of the scriptures. Maybe. But ask yourself this. Does Joel Osteen preach another god. No. Does he give the glory to anyone other than God? No. Does he use anyone other than Jesus as a starting point in a prayer of salvation? No. Paul said in 1Corinthians that when all else is gone (prophecies will cease, tounges will be stilled and where there is knowledge it will pass away) there will be three things left: faith, hope and love. And the greatest of these is love. Now ask yourself this. Does Joel Osteen preach faith? Absolutely. Does he preach hope? Absolutely. And most importantly, does he preach love? Absolutely, and most notably all in Jesus’ name at the end of each message.
    Joel Osteens place in the ministry may not live up to your expectations or preconcieved notions of what an ideal pastor should be, but then who does. And when all is said and done, the approval of man will mean very little, if anything, in the kingdom of God.

59. Adam March 30, 2008 11:01 am

    I did not read all of the comments posted, but the one that gave me a lot of comfort was Seans at the end here (March 30, 2008 @ 7:41am). I recognize the arguments made by the Joel (the one posting the original blog) and I also recognize preacher Joel Osteen’s view, however different from my own that it is. All of Sean’s points that were made were completely right and I agree with him 100%. Joel (poster), I believe you made valid points and some that were in error or at least not as full as they could have been.

    It seems, instead of attacking Joel Osteen and Joel Osteen’s ministries, you should be warning your brothers and sisters in Christ about misconceptions or flaws in Osteen’s teachings. Dont attack Osteen, protect your spiritual siblings that may not see his teaching flaws. The one thing I want to say that Sean didnt is that it sounds like you are forgetting the 2nd most important commandment given to us by the one you are so zealously trying to stand for (which I respect fully) and that is that you must love you neighbor as you love yourself. This post does not sound like one posted in love, it sounds like anger, spite or whatever emotion that was driving you at the time. I pray that this helps somehow and I pray for all who have participated in the commenting (and Joel’s) well being.

    God Bless

60. Rms March 31, 2008 1:07 am

    Interesting statement I thought I’d share;
    ”
    We are to keep the meaning when reading the Bible. We are to read on in the chapter to see what the Holy Spirit is trying to teach us. Preach the Word and read the Word– the whole Word– not pick and choose verses. The Bible is a book that is to be read completely– Old and New Testament. We cannot pick and choose. God intended us to read ALL of it. This is how we will know when someone is not preaching the whole Word of God. We need to know the Scriptures. If we do, then we will recognize those who preach falsely. We need to be on guard because the devil knows Scripture too and will try and twist it if we are not careful and watchful of his devices.” Im sad to say Joel is not following the rules……People pleassseee ask questions, seek the truth, and READ your bible..GOD BLESS you all.

61. Jerald March 31, 2008 8:26 am

    I came across these preacher Joel Osteen scandal sites while looking for tickets to Joel’s event in Memphis this weekend. My wife is a big fan and I wanted to surprise her. I’m a little disturbed about the clips from the Larry King interview where he wouldn’t say Christ is the only way to Heaven – that was bad! But, on another criticism of Joel, I can’t really condemn him for preaching positive things. Some people initially need to be fed some positive messages and learn that God is good and wants to love them.
    But, more importantly, they also need to know what the Bible says about Salvation through Christ. I’d personally rather go to church to hear how I’m living wrong and be told to straighten myself up and be a good witness for God and know that I am saved, rather than hear that everything’s okay and not being lifted up from this earth when the trumpet sounds. I don’t know if this is what Joel preaches or not because I do not watch him. I’ve never been big on television evangelists. But, for the people curious about true Christianity, whether Joel preaches it or not, Salvation through Jesus Christ is the only way to Heaven and that doctrine needs to be strenuously preached and defended by every Christian preacher.
    I also agree that this life is not necessarily meant to be free from pain, sorrow or money. I don’t necessarily believe that you will be rich in this life nor do I believe that you will be free from pain or sorrow in this life just because you are a Christian. I believe it’s possible because all things are possible through Christ, but I don’t believe it’s probable. I believe that God will meet all of your needs and will not place any burden on you that you cannot bear. One of the earliest things I remember my grandfather telling me is that you will be tested as a Christian in this life. If Joel only preaches these good-feeling messages (and again, I don’t know if he does or not), I fear for the people who hear it and I worry about what will happen to their faith when they are tested.
    I don’t mean to sound like Joel, but I can’t judge the man just by what I read on these sites and from the bits and pieces of sermons picked out by those who publish them. We all say things from time to time that, when pieced together, can be construed to mean something other than what we actually intended. Again, I can’t find any way to construe the statements in the preacher Joel Osteen – Larry King Live interview to mean anything other than what he said. I hope and pray that with a following like he has, that he has learned from that mistake and preaches something differently now. I guess I’ll just go and listen to the man this weekend and decide for myself what I think of him.

62. Dan April 1, 2008 10:14 am

    AMEN!!!

    The Bible is such an amazing thing that people should read it instead of Joel Olsteen’s books. If your into positive thinking then read the bible and see how to live a real Christian life!!!

63. Lauren Kurchak April 1, 2008 6:51 pm

    GOD bless your Ministries… I look forward to seeing you on air!

64. Joel April 1, 2008 8:02 pm

    Laura…. Ummm… I’m not Joel Osteen lol

65. VINCENT April 2, 2008 7:20 am

    I feel this nonsense talk about megachurch pastor Joel Osteen is outrageous. I feel he has a lot to say that’s good. He brings inspiration to others and doesn’t preach hate like a lot of religious morons want him to. People like preacher Joel Osteen because he makes millions feel good about life and living. I feel it’s wrong anyone one to make judgments on someone who is an extraordinary preacher. I feel other preachers are jealous, because they don’t have the success that Joel has and people like him are better for it. Inspirational semons are what people want today. We are all tired of preachers encouraging hate. Joel should continue inspiring millions with his inspirational sermons. I don’t feel it’s anyone’s business to question why one preacher doesn’t mention God. No one wants to hear it anyone. Enough with the ignorance and encouraging hate. God is Love and we should stop being jealous of a man who is doing good and bring hope to all.

66. JUAN TORRES April 2, 2008 1:27 pm

    I belive that just becasue Joel do not talk about God, Jesus Christ, or going to Heven dose not make him a con artist. His words inspire a lot of people. He is doing the right thing.

67. Jesse April 3, 2008 5:28 am

    i see Osteen as merely a religious motivational speaker. the people who only attend/view his teachings should realize they arent getting much of the bibles content. read it if you want to learn about christianity. BTW Joel Osteens teeth are ginormous, look-a-like Haley Joel Osment

68. Mae April 3, 2008 10:06 am

    If you say Joel Osteen does not talk about god and jesus then you are reading the wrong book!! Funny how you say he doesn’t talk about god when almost every sentence he mentions god and jesus every sermon he talks about god and jesus…U must of mistaken him for someone else

69. Lashaye April 3, 2008 3:59 pm

    I just want to say that I realy like megachurch pastor Joel Osteen and to see such critism from a guy who calls himself a christian . We are not to judge first of all. I don’t see how you don’t get a message out of Joel’s teachings, but of course you already made up in your mind that you don’t want hear nothing good! If he wasn’t doing the right thing than God would not have him in the position that he is in. He wouldn’t have a big church or 2 books wrote. Being christians these days we have to have our eyes on the Lord at all times or we would be of the world. Christians need to know that God is love and that God can heal you and that your words or powerful! I see him as a man of God and that wants to see other reach there full potential in life . What bad about that ? Do you not want to be encouraged ? Do you not want to know you are special in God’s eyes? God is big God that can do anything! Looking at Joel life you would see that ! All I can say is megachurch pastor Joel Osteen is blessed and favored in God’s eyes!! So get your focus back on God ! Then you wouldn’t be worried about what other people or doing or saying that you don’t want to hear!

70. Myrlyn Huffstetler April 4, 2008 2:29 am

    You R trying to find out something bad everything on all of God’s people arn’t you? However I found out the hard that if your judge, you will be judged….

    Myrlyn

71. Madison Fairchild April 4, 2008 2:49 am

    Everyone is always trying to find out something bad on all of God’s Pastor’s, However I found out the hard way that if your judge, you will be judged….I’ve been judged over and over, by how I judged other’s…”Why would you say something like, “I’m waiting for the day when I hear that he (televangelist Joel Osteen) molested a child?” Is it because it is so easy for you to molest children; therefore, you think that other’s can do it too?” What kind of person would even say something stupid thing like that? …”I’m not judging you, and I’m not saying that your are molesting children, I’m just trying to find out why you would say such a vile thing about a someone; not knowing their heart’s!” Better watch your step! It is better to put a milstone around your neck and be cast into a lake, than to offend one of God’s Children…This is written in the Bible. I think Joel is a GREAT pastor. I find Joel uplifting.
    Madison Fairchild

72. Joel April 4, 2008 8:56 am

    Unfortunately, the intellectual level of discourse on this blog entry about pastor Joel Osteen seems to have decreased significantly lately. Maybe all of the intelligent people read the post and agreed and didn’t feel a need to comment. Or maybe they were just disgusted and didn’t feel like lowering themselves into the fray .

    LaShaye- Just because Joel Osteen is rich and successful doesn’t mean he is doing right in God’s eyes. Keep in mind that Hitler was also wealthy and powerful.

    Myrlyn Huffstetler- Your comment is incoherent. Are you drunk?

    Madison- Modern christians continually talk about never judging others. However, the Bible doesn’t say never to judge, instead you are supposed to be judicious when it comes to other peoples behavior. If we never judged anyone Dahmer, Bundy, and others would still be roaming the streets. When someone like Joel Osteen is abusing his position of power & trust, it is not only the RIGHT but it is the DUTY of the people to call him out on it.

    I am becoming more concerned by people’s fear of discussing the potentially wrongheaded actions of pastors and authority figures like those of Joel Osteen then I am of Joel Osteen’s behavior itself. Joel Osteen’s Ministries are the largest in America and his actions have a large impact, but I am more worried by those Christians who refuse to act when their leaders have gone astray. Dark times.

73. J April 4, 2008 11:35 pm

    I think the reason that the church and the Bible are so easily argued against is because of how liberal the interpretations have become, as well as how illogical, uneducated, the arguments from “Christians” have become.

    I would dare to venture that those of you who are supporting these arguments on falsehoods are at risk of your own salvation. Perfect proof that what Osteen preaches is foolishness and lies.

74. maddi putter April 6, 2008 1:46 am

    The best oarsman always stands on the river bank telling the person how to row the
    boat. Also, just look at yourself what kind of an example are you to any
    person HUMAN BEING HELLO? We are, are we not, human beings,who live on this earth for a short time some fortunate some not. What kind of college did Leonardo da Vinci attend…………????????? Yes can you answer that one!!!!!
    If you go to a baseball game and they are your team and you cheer them, are you going to allow anybody to criticize you for supporting them??????? You dear lost soul, because by your own admission you are not Religious, have too much to say about this man who is trying to make the Christian religion come alive.For us as a family we have been VERY blessed by televangelist Joel Osteens ministry.Think about it if you have time….!!!!
    In the mean time Ill ask God Jesus to deal with your soul… say thank you..from South Africa where people still have values.

75. J April 6, 2008 12:55 pm

    I appreciate the international scope and the ability that Osteen has to reach others, but am concerned about what he is reaching them with.

    If you choose to recognize him as a good motivational speaker, you are more honest then he is.

    He claims to be a pastor and a preacher of the word of God, but I see him teaching more the word of “good”. I have watched as many of his sales pitches that I could stomach and am startled at the lack of perspective and accuracy that his Scriptural references account for.

    One of the things that the Bible makes quite clear is that there is only one right way, and that trying to modify or misrepresent it is a sin. Regardless of where you are from, if you read the Bible, and whether or not you are religious or not, then you can come to the understanding that no matter how positive a message is, it can still be wrong.

    I think that has been Joel’s (blog) point all along.

76. debra April 7, 2008 2:57 pm

    I think he is a great speaker, I see nothing wrong with his presentations. I am thankful that God has brought him into our lives so that we can be better equiped to handle life’s ups and downs. He is a blessing not a curse. So what if he makes a lot of money on books and such. He did the work, now he gets the rewards. God is blessing him every day.

77. J April 7, 2008 6:22 pm

    No one is criticizing people for making money. I think that everyone here would love to make more money…..

    We are criticizing people who say that money is a sign of God’s blessing (not Scriptural), who teach that money is a sign of God’s blessing or anointing (not Scriptural), or who believe that money is a sign of God’s blessing. So please, don’t engage the debate on the wrong grounds. The fact that so many of you who are supporting Osteen quote his income as a sign of his divine appointment, are only proving how terrible a leader and a teacher he is. Which we thank you for contributing, but it is a bit mindless.

78. kathy April 8, 2008 11:42 am

    hello
    for what I read here seems to me that you have a issue with seeing other people doing well instead of waisting your time trying to find out when this man will do wrong be like him and encourage other to do better that’ what this world need more people with the same charisma … if you have read his books or at least listen to one of his sermons televangelist Joel Osteen does talk about God and Jesus… I would like to understand why when someone become famous everyone starts to look for the negative (if he has done wrong it will come to light and he will pay for it) and not for the good televangelist Joel Osteen person is doing right now. and for those who has comment so far I would like to know if they really believe in god or if they at least try to encourage someone in their life to be or do better…..

79. Samuel Dube April 10, 2008 8:54 am

    Please can you enlighten me on a verse in Ecc that say Wine makes you merry but money is the answer to everything

80. pat April 13, 2008 10:50 am

    Joel, I will pray for you I think if you studied the Bible instead of taking parts of it to fit your views you would know that God uses diffrent kinds of people to spread his word in many diffrent ways. Joel Osteen uses a feel good,down to earth,build your confidence up,and a God loves you no matter what, way. I hope you will find peace in your heart and you will if you will let God help you. Don’t attack people who are helping others.Why don’t you try a little volenteer work and help someone who needs it.There are millions out there that need help.Find your own way to help and NOT try to stop the ones that are helping in their own way.

81. sea April 15, 2008 2:21 am

    I don’t know…it just sounds like the writer and a lot of the comments have bits of of jealousy. Maybe I’m wrong. That is just the first thought that came to me. The second thought/question I had, was: If you’re not a christian then why would it bother anyone as to whether or not Joel Osteen was a true believer and pastor of a ‘christian based church’? Why would a non-believer bother with it?

    A lot of the information is incorrect or perhaps wrote just to stir controversy, or ignorance. I don’t know. I do believe and agree with you on those seeking profit via the bible, or God. Woe to them.

    Joel Osteen preaches about Christ, God, and the teachings of the bible. It’s just that he is not one of these legalistic screaming pastors that wants to scare someone into christianity by cramming hell and sins down their throat. We know we are sinners. And Joel Osteen has said so… For we all fall short of the glory of God. He has talked about heaven, and many other topics in the Bible. That’s the difference. Don’t you get it? There is more to the bible than the few things you list. Joel Osteen talks about them. Preaches about them, and it is done in an uplifting manner. He delivers the good news of Christ. Yes, Christ died on a cross for our sins–He also came in flesh to show us how we are supposed to live in our everyday lives.

    I have never heard Joel Osteen beg for money. By the way, tithing is part of christian faith and living. Though there are plenty of televangelists that do beg for money through television that I would’nt give the time of day to.

    Megachurch? I think it’s great to see that many diverse people come together in the Lords name in one facility as large as that stadium. It’s great to finally hear someone preach of Jesus’ teachings with enthusiasm and tell about the joy and promises that are written all through the bible. Yes, as Joel Osteen has spoke of sin, saying, “Many of us think we’re too bad for God to ever love us.” “Many of us have had terrible things happen to us. “Many of us have done terrible things, but if we receive the promises and blessings of God which he wants to give us, then grab onto them and stop hurting inside or being sorrowful, believing it will always be bad in your life”. There is nothing so sad as to be a christian and feel unloved.

    I’ve had my fill of the televangelists that have you thinking so low of yourself, and then say, “if you just send a $1,000 everything will start going your way”. That’s sickening! That’s what I call misusing God’s word for profit. Taking the tithing thing way too far. I have never seen Joel Osteen beg for money on television or have ’sharathons’ nightly trying to raise money the way some others have. I’ve seen the fakes. I don’t like them either. Nor do I condemn or judge them. As Joel Osteen points out: “That is not my place”. It is God who condemns or not. It is God who is the judge, so let Him do so.

    I just think it’s nice for a preacher to finally let everyone out there know there is more to the bible and God’s love than any of us will ever really comprehend. I wish in all local communities we could have megachurches that teach not just about the importance of Christ suffering on the cross for our sins, but also teach all the other things our Lord wanted us to know. Heaven is just one part of it. We have this life to go through first and if we could find more uplifting churches like Osteen’s maybe we would see more people laying their lives in Christ hands, repenting, and then receiving, all the blessings and promises that are right under our noses. But we completely miss them because we try to solve eveything on our own, or bicker about this and that in the bible. Or this pastor or that pastor.

    Just remember, those of us who have repented, accepted Christ acknowledging Him as our Saviour and the Son of God, and do not turn away, will still suffer, but the suffering is made bearable through Christ. We as christians should be living, knowing that God want us to have the love joy, security, and blessingswill also receive favor from God with his love, joy, blessings and promisesthat he has offered to those who accept and believe. We’ll go to heaven. An everlasting life.

    Joel Osteen has accepted and believed.
    Looks like God has blessed him abundantly.

82. Lynnie April 15, 2008 9:27 am

    I am so sorry you feel/think this way. My life as a longstanding Christian has been so greatly and positively affected by his messages of grace and love. I am very hard on myself and made a huge mistake several years ago and yet, I know God’s GRACE is sufficient for me. Joel Osteen has helped me over such a difficult period in my life and I am thankful for his positive messages about GOD; faith & hope and most of all LOVE. The greatest Commandment is LOVE. Christ commanded us to love on another. If Joel Osteen doesn’t teach anything else, he teaches us about HIM. Because we are imperfect beings there will never be a perfect church. I hope you can focus on the one you belong to and grow in that one which may be more in line with what your church teaches. Again, I am so sorry you have missed his message about HIM. There is a peace that surpasses understanding that permeates him – This is what the bible speaks of. Anyhow, Blessings to you. Lynnie

83. J April 15, 2008 8:18 pm

    Please, please, please, come up with some other argument than “He has a positive message”. Or “he has been financially blessed”.

    There are lots of positive messages out there but only one right one. (We can see in the Larry King video that Osteen isn’t quite sure of that fact). Any variation from that one is misleading.

    Secondly, it is more difficult for a wealthy individual to get into heaven then it is for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, according to Scripture. Money is in no way an indicator of God’s favor. So please, Joel Osteen making money doesn’t help your case.

    And everyone has an interest in the truth coming out- dishonesty disgraces the Church and Christians everywhere. It also is tantamount to fraud- something that the government has investigated televangelists for in the past.

84. mili April 17, 2008 8:06 am

    who are you to judje? apostle paul said in 1corinthians 4:3 “I care very little if i’am judge by you or by any human court;indeed,I do not even judge myself.”the one who judges me is God.
    my prayers are for the ones that are spiritually dead.The message of the cross seems foolish to those who are lost and dying but it is God power to us who are being saved 1corinthians 1:18.
    God bless you.

85. Dustin April 19, 2008 3:16 pm

    While I will agree that many mega churches and their pastors have proven to be a strange and corruptive breed, I somehow feel the need to correct a couple false statements being posted on this blog.

    #1 If you actually sit and watch his TV broadcast you will notice that he NEVER asks for money. Any other broadcast on any other network has a constant scrolling donation or pledge phone number and ministors pleading with you to send in money. Mr. Osteen’s does NOT. His books and teachings do suggest that living a good life requires giving and sacrifice, but not solely to him or his ministry!! If people choose to, then that’s their business. While I would prefer to donate my money and time directly to a shelter or someone in need rather than a TV ministry that doesn’t need it, other people can spend their money how they see fit. I just wanted to clear up the misconception that he asks for money during his broadcasts, because he doesn’t.

    #2. I just purchased tickets to see Joel Osteen in Chicago. EVERY SEAT in the United Center was selling for $15 (less than ANY concert or sporting event that i have ever attended). Whoever suggested that he charges $360 or some ridiculous amount either purchased tickets from some sort of re-seller or mis-typed the dollar amount due to the bumpy ride on that very, VERY short bus they are on.

    #3. It’s called NON-denominational for a reason. His ministry is not about a list of do’s and don’ts. It’s not about threats. It’s simply about being positive and being a positive influence on others. Even if it ever turned out that the ministry was a fraud, I would still much rather have spent my time and money listening to a positive uplifing message that made me feel better about myself than to spend my money on what the rest of the world suggests I spend it on. I choose to live my life with a positive tone and lots of giving, not writing “scathing” blogs to tear down a person who has done so much good for so many people. Compare the tone of this page/blog with Mr. Osteen’s website and I know without a doubt where my time and money is better spent.

86. Concerned citizen April 19, 2008 9:55 pm

    The most interesting thing about Joel Osteen is that you’ll NEVER hear him utter the word “Satan.” Check his catalogue, and I have many of his CD’s, and not ONCE does he condemn “Satan” or the “Devil.” That is really the only thing that sticks out to me about his ministry.

87. pat black April 20, 2008 9:32 am

    I believe with all my heart and soul that joel osteen is a faithful and dedicated man of God.The Lord says ask for wisdom and he will give you the wisdom.The word is all ready there and that is the Bible.People should not judge because someday they will judged and give account for their lies on joel osteen. God Bless this man of God and his ministry. pat black sister in Christ

88. Helen Pearl Friedman April 21, 2008 4:10 am

    I am incensed by and can’t believe the insidious remarks I have just read about Joel Osteein. I happen to be of the Jewish faith, and since discovering this truly wonderful voice of God, many of my problems which he has addressed have been lessened or eradicated, thanks to him, and I have had the will to go on with my life, which before having had the privilege of hearing his profound message, was filled with much pain and disappointment; unlike those with a hard-line approach, he has made me see “the light.” I say, God doesn’t need a sales representative; therefore, I do not appreciate being proselytized. To have someone throw their “religious” beliefs down my throat by attempting to intimidate me and fill me with the fear of God, rather than with the love of God, and by insulting the religion into which I was born,(which was Jesus’s own faith, as well), is not something that would draw me into Christianity; to the contrary, never would I consider such a conversion, since I am totally turned off by that sort of self-righteous “morality.” Those professing to be Christian need to be emulating all of the facets of Judaism that their Lord and every Jew in those times strictly observed to the letter, including circumcision of every male child at birth and his Bar-Mitzvah at age thirteen, not to mention the Seder, which Jesus performed at the Last Supper at which his desciples participated in. And I’ll be “damned” if I am going to allow myself to be influenced and condemned by these so-called men of God, who are nothing more than devils in disguise. There are many men of the cloth, who you respect as legitimate” clergymen, who not only receive handsome returns from their congregants on behalf of their church, but who commit most heinous and grievous crimes against those right within their flock, as evidenced recently in the Catholic Church, and are protected and defended, to boot, by their higher-up Church authorities, until all are forced to admit the wrongdoings that can no longer be hidden or denied. If Reverend Osteen is making a profit from his good work, so what? He deserves every penny of it. I plan on reading his current book, “How To Become A Better You.” I suggest your columnist read it, too. Perhaps he’ll learn something, like becoming the kind of good and decent person his Creator intended for him to be. Happy Passover!

89. Helen Pearl Friedman April 21, 2008 4:19 am

    I’d appreciate it if someone could call me, 215-637-3478 (home) or 267-237-5566 (cell). I finally completed what I wanted to express and when I clicked on the button to have it sent on, it said I already had done so. I am just in the beginning stages of learning how to use the computer and am not proficient in it as yet. It is important to me that I have the complete message on this site, so I am hoping that you will be good enough to contact me by phone. Thanks very much. Helen Pearl Friedman

90. J April 21, 2008 3:36 pm

    Whoops. Never post your phone number unnecessarily on the internet. You have no idea who might be out there enjoying your first and last name and your contact information.

    That being said, it is nice to have a different viewpoint in here, especially when its not as ignorant as some of the others that have been voiced.

    The only facts that really can be debated (since we can’t actually explore the soul of someone) is what Osteen has said, what he has done, and how that measures up to the tenets of the faith to which he professes. In any situation, we can look at a public figure and balance what they say and do against who they proclaim themselves to be. That often reflects most accurately on whether or not they are hypocrites, ignorant, or a fraud.

    We have video statements from Osteen on one subject matter (the Scriptural belief that Jesus Christ is the only means by which one can get to heaven), information regarding his income, his books, and his teaching methodologies. Most of which run against the grain of what is taught in the Bible. Regardless if you, as a Jew, feel that Osteen is a good and positive man. He is NOT a faithful guide to his church. If he wants to be a motivational speaker, fine. Just keep religion out of it. Especially if he is going to butcher it so badly.

91. Armando April 22, 2008 12:31 pm

    People here keep saying that Joel Osteen preaches about Jesus, the Bible and so forth. Can anyone quote ANYTHING that he is claimed to have said? I have heard him preach on TV and he liberally throws around the names of Jesus and God without any real sustance behind them. Has he ever just got out the Bible and actually just preached (teach) from it instead of ad-libbing everything he says?

92. Jamie Moran April 22, 2008 1:44 pm

    Hello, I just wanted to comment on your article that you wrote about pastor Osteen. First of all, there are allot of scandals involving the ministry. From Swaggart, Tilton, & yes Jim Bakker. But what can I say, we here down below are only human and God knows we aren’t perfect. I think the big thing is that there is allot of money mismanagement in these minitries on ocassion and the lust thing also played an active role ,not with Osteen. Although, in years gone by, before Joel Osteen took over the ministry, his father’s ministry was targeted for maliscious conduct by an outsider. I think though in my own opinion, allot of the other tele evangelists are getting self centered, placing more focus on themselves and not the almighty. You have to remember, there is allot of greed in the world too and not just from the preachers you see on the tube either, global my friend and it is not getting better for that matter. I believe from my own standpoint that Satan is a factor in the distruction of God’s people, doing anything he can to keep his elect at bay. Then too, there is allot of Hypocrisy out there, bottom line, they should practice what they preach. I think though, that Osteen seems as though on the up and up. Even Oral Roberts came back into the spot light again in the pit of contraversy. As they say however, Seeing is beleiving. Jamie Moran

93. Gracie Marmolejo April 23, 2008 8:53 am

    I’m sorry to say this, but your just hating, why because you don’t have the money, yes i’m sure he gets lots of money, but regarless God gave us a mind of our own and i’m sure we can use our own sence, of whats right & wrong or what to believe. I’m reading Joel’s book and I like it. If you were a good person you won’t be writing this about Joel or any other pastor, it’s their life and if you really believe in God, let him take over, why you have to do all this. What do you want to prove? Your probably full of hate, you need to find peace in your heart to be happy and I really hope that you find it.

94. Linda O'Tyson April 24, 2008 10:04 am

    Pulleeze…Gracie Marmejo, last comment, get a life. I have been so disgusted by all the people who feel it is their personal job to advocate for Joel Osteen. Really, who cares?!

95. Mel April 25, 2008 2:54 pm

    I feel that Joel Osteen has change my life. He is a very spirtutual person he has touched many people when they are on there lowest self-steem. I totally disagree with all the comments that are being said about him or his believes.

96. Tim April 26, 2008 5:26 pm

    I’m curious as to how much you really pay attention. I’m not one that sits in front of the TV to wait on Joel Osteen to come on but I have seen his program. I thank God he’s not like most of those other guys and ALL they want is for someone to send them more money and get people feeling guilty about not tithing. I’ve not heard him say much about money but I have heard him talk about God. I think most people that criticize him, do so because they don’t have anything else on him but their own opinion.
    Also, do you know him personaly? With some TV Pastor’s its real obvious why there doing what they do, such as Benny Hinn, Rod Parsely, John Hagee, and others. But with Osteen it looks more “real”. See you could give credibility to your comments if you really knew him but for now you’re just another non-christain bashing someone without proof.
    Like I said, I’ve seen his program and have heard what he teaches, and I”ve not heard the money pleas though I have heard him speak very clearly of God and the salvation only found in Christ. I’m not into big churches either but just because Joel Osteen pastor’s one does not necessarily put him in the same catagory as the others. You sound as angry as John Hagee.
    By the way my old pastor went to see Joel Osteen in Atlanta and it didn’t cost $360.00 for the seat!

97. Linda April 26, 2008 11:33 pm

    If Joel Osteen was a true minister for the gospel of Jesus Christ; he would not charge for seating at his conferences; with all the money he is taking in from just his church alone. Why would a man of GOD want to charge for seats. Go and bring the lost to Jesus Christ. I have been to many of Billy Graham’s conferences; never did I have to pay for a seat.

    Joel you need to talk about the whole side of GOD. You are misleading your flock! You better start preaching the BIBLE and using scriptures in your sermons. You are just telling people what they want to hear not what they need to hear.

    It may not be GOD blessing him abundantly. People wake up; read your BIBLE; study the word for yourself. When you do read it for your self; you will find that Joel is not giving it to you straight.

98. NATALIA April 29, 2008 12:09 am

    I DON’T KNOW MUCH ABOUT NOTHING, BUT I REALLY THINK THAT THE SAME TIME YOU WASTE TALKING OVER THIS SUBJECT YOU SHOULD USE TO PRAY, AND LET GOD DECIDE IF JOEL IS DOING OR NOT WHAT JESUS ASK US TO DO. AFTER ALL CAN U THROW THE FIRST STONE??. MEGA OR NOT, HIGH EDUCATION OR NOT, MAYBE IS BETTER TO BE USE LIKE YOU ARE, THAN HAVE A LOT OF KNOWLEDGE FROM BOOKS BUT AN EMPTY SPIRIT,TALK ABOUT JESUS IS THE ONLY IMPORTANT THING.

99. grenda atega May 1, 2008 1:42 am

    I felt like crying after i read through this portion about joel osteen being accused as fake and phony etc. I know that I know that I know that Pastor Joel is real and he is a person who truly fears and loves the Lord. Yes, a person will be known by his fruits- Joel’s family is great. He preached by example. He experienced what he is preaching. His life is an example. I wonder why people would still dare to accuse him, despite the fact that He has been an effective channel God uses to change many people’s lives. I will never forget that I was about to give up on my marriage when I heard him say on his sermon that God has anointed me to stay on that difficult marriage… I know it was from God. Is he faking? Can the devil deliver any message of love? Think about it. God is just supernaturally blessing him and there is nothing you can do about it!

100. jose en california May 2, 2008 10:48 am

     i completely desagree, that’s not fair for this pastor to be judged the way the author did. He likes gossip,plain and clear.

101. David May 4, 2008 7:50 am

     This is funny. Even Christians can’t agree among themselves.

102. Angels Of God May 4, 2008 12:45 pm

     In the name of God, first of all, Joel talks about the Almighty God. I think you people have nothing else to do than to down others. Especially people whom are preaching the word of God and Jesus. Since your Satan’s lover you wouldn’t understand when Joel is talking about God because you are an unhappy person. Since when did the Lord give you privilage to judge others? What I’m doing is defending one of God’s children and all the other followers of Jesus who put trust and faith within the Lord and Joel Osteen which he has chosen to spread his Love and Truth. Satan chose you to condemn Joel for being righteous but, the Lord will protect him. Think about that while your burning in Hell. Thank You.

103. Angels Of God May 4, 2008 12:54 pm

     Kudos to all the faithful who stood their ground on protecting Joel and the word of the Lord.

104. alex May 4, 2008 3:35 pm

     I only think that you never will know how God works. Just wait and see if this is from the Lord or not wait and wait do no make comments like this you did not proof any point. Are you a christian?

105. Joel May 4, 2008 6:30 pm

     I’m amused that the most illiterate, confusing and outright stupid comments on my blog all appear on one post- this one.

106. ALEX May 5, 2008 6:35 am

     “Joel Gross”. You do not impress me as being a Christian at all, but that of some other religious ( if at all ) denomination.

     I cannot accept your rationale for putting down Joel Osteen. He has helped me and my family TREMENDOUSLY! Far more than our staunch Christian Catholic upbringing.

     My impression about your comments … you’re just envious for not having the same crowds of believers in your own parish ( if at all). Perhaps, you and your spiritual minister just do NOT have the gift of being able to convey to all people the rights and wrongs of life based on the principles of the Holy Bible as in the way that Joel Osteen does. Perhaps the ministry to which you belong (or do you?) just doesn’t have the same revenue as Joel Osteen. We watch him every Sunday for the past 3 years and not once has he asked for money. So what’s your problem?

     Are you jealous? Appears to be so.

     Your quotes from the Bible are 100% accurate. Your interpretation and application of those same quotations especially against Joel Osteen are deemed to be 100% MALICIOUS.

     Matter of fact, your quotes also apply to the Catholic Pope, the Schuller Ministries, the Dollar Ministries, Ed Youn Ministries, Jimmy Swaggart Ministries etc., etc.

     Sir! YOU and your blog are THE pitiful SCANDAL. I shall pray for you and shall tithe to Joel Osteen continuously in the hope that you too will go to heaven and be saved from the eternal hell from which you preach.

     Seems to me Joel Gross, that you have an anti-Christian religious agenda. You are NOT a Christian. You are simply a soldier attempting to appease your superiors. Definitely, “your life mission” and part of your childhood upbringing “as a chosen one”.

     You are “DISCOVERED”!

     You have some “better learning” to do. Get with it and do your homework!

107. Tom Barany May 5, 2008 5:27 pm

     I feel the presence and power of Jesus Christ more strongly when I listen to Joel Osteen than with any other preacher I have ever encountered, and I’m 47 years old. After listening to him, the problems of my life seem petty, and I am ready to love and serve God all the more. I truly do not comprehend how any Christian could label him as anything less than an inspired man of God. Please don’t belittle a popular preacher just because he is popular. Please don’t make intellectual arguments about false prophets and so on, implying that Joel is not a good Christian. If you must criticize, attack God-less televsion, music, or movies that are so common. Examine your own conscience, ask for Divine Wisdom, and make sure there is no jealousy in your heart. Jesus be praised, Amen!

108. shelley kagan May 6, 2008 7:39 am

     The only thing I have to say is, last night I was watching Joel’s sermon and all he talked about was god. Look it up. The sermon was about embracing change and again all he talked about was god.

109. Delaine May 6, 2008 2:46 pm

     The word of God is free. Christ said he is here to save us and I didn’t see where he said to charge for the Gospel. The Gospel (good news) is all about him (Christ). Ask for a contribution that’s not wrong, to price a seat to here the good news which is not your news or is it YOURS. I am not here to condemn anyone it is not my power to say who is a Christian or not. But by their spiritual fruits I will know them. God sees the heart not the person. You and I know what you or I say to our Heavenly Father, you and I don’t know what he’s saying to the Heavenly Father. Jacob was a trickier and God turned him a rounded, David was of God’s own heart (he was a chaser of God) he commit murder and fornication and Saul (now Paul) he murdered the Christians. WHO ARE US TO JUDGE???

110. Jordan May 7, 2008 4:35 pm

     Thankfully, US are at least capable of judging grammar. By your fruits, WE judge you to be incompetent.

111. Natasha Williams May 9, 2008 9:58 am

     This is AWFUL!!!!!!! How can you say that Joel Osteen doesn’t mention God? I know every time I watch him on tv or read his books, he is always giving God the glory and thanking Jesus. I LOVE THE LORD and I wouldn’t buy Pastor Joel books and listen to him every chance I get,if he didnt know GOD. HE is a Great Motivational speaker!!!!! He relates to every day REAL life. Why do people like you and others always try to destroy The Men and Women of GOD? He doesn’t know who is going to heaven,ONLY GOD knows. Why your Judging Joel ,you should be concerned about where your eternity will be spent.The Lord says “Touch Not MY Annioted”speak no evil of his ANNIOTED ONE and Joel is one of his ANNIOTED. The thing that really bothed me was what it stated about tithes and offerings. As long as I have been watching Lakewood Ministries I have NEVER heard him ask nor beg for either of those. All ministries sell books and cd’s. All ministries ask for TV donations.So, why single him out? Because the devil is ALWAYS BUSY!!!!!!! Why worry where the money is going as long as your doing your part,by giving 10% tithes and your best offerring that The Lord Requires, then maybe one day you will be just as Blessed as Joel.Until GOD exposes Joel for any scandals or wrong doings, I will continue to watch him, read his books and Pray for him and his family.

112. curtis May 11, 2008 4:20 pm

     you are going to burn in hell for not believing in god and for putting down his servants….

113. juan fernandez May 11, 2008 10:29 pm

     i am not a joel osteen follower so my comment should be more objective than others. judging others without having a substantial evidence is not fair in God eyes.
     i believe joel is a honest humble man.thats what he inspires. i see him more as a motivator than a preacher. and by being a great motivator he is doing a good job.
     the gospel needs to be preach as a whole and not fracture into only one subjet.joel osteen have to realize that some day.about the money if has come from thite and offerings needs to be use to continue preaching the gospel giving away bibles.take care of the needy and not for personal enrichment. probably no body have ask him to show a report of where the money he gets goes.if is being use for those purposes . then he has nothing to be ashame of. if the money is going to a personal account.then that is wrong doing.most of his attackers a ruthless antichristian fellows that are jellows of his success.if they can prove with substantial evidence that he is take advantage of his believers by using the money for personal enrichment i will change my opinion. if you can not leave the man alone and let God judge him.

114. jerry fisher May 12, 2008 6:39 am

     why are you so concerned with tearing down joel osteen? ever heard of live and let live? he’s not bothering you and if you don’t like him, move on. but sitting around focusing your time and energy on hating him makes you look more ridiculous than him. he’s living a happy life. yours sounds empty. get out and live rather than staying indoors and bitching about how other people live and what others choose to believe.

115. Cassie May 12, 2008 7:16 am

     First of all,I am really amazed and saddened by the fact that so many claiming to be “Christians” would be so insanely moronic and un-Christlike as to personally attack “Joel” the writer for expressing his opinions. Its like who hired you as Osteen’s defense attorneys? Why does he need them anyway if he is walking the path he should (Joel O) should be on? “By this, shall all men know that you are My disciples, that you have love one for another.” Wheres the love in your responses to Joel? If people hated and attacked me for stating my feelings, and those people were “Christians” I would not want to be one either. Be careful, for you will be judged with the same measure that you are measuring and judging Joel with. “Love covers a multitude of sins.” Stop and think about it, Joel,the blog writer,has obviously had some real hurt and pain in his life, likely inflicted by Christians.
     Perhaps his father was a famous preacher and got divorced and it tore the whole
     family up….? We don’t know the path another has been forced to walk, nor the pain they have had to endure and the scars they bear. But it really disgusts me that people who call themselves followers of the greatest lover of all times, are the first to pick up the stones and cast them at others. “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone,” Jesus said.

116. Roe May 12, 2008 8:33 am

     Joel, I have watched Joel Osteen and even attended his service. He does take up an offering like all churches do, but not on air. I been to many different churches in my lifetime Assembly of God, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, and Catholic. All of them teach the Bible differently, does that make them wrong? I’m not sure that there is one correct opinion, except God’s, on what a verse means or doesn’t mean. I do realize you are very good at quoting them and you have an opinion on what they mean to you. Some opinions on Bible versus I have liked, some not so much. So I choose to focus more on the ones that make me feel I can be a better Christian and person because if I’m spewing out negative ones and focus on those who would want to listen to me or even be around me. I think that Joel gives us an opprtunity to look at the good God has to offer and encourages us to get into a good Bible based based church to grow even more. I know his sermans help me to be a better person and I don’t think God would frown on that.

117. Elis May 12, 2008 10:57 am

     I think Pastor Joel is a great person, I’ve read his books and they do talk about Jesus and how to live a christian life.

118. DAVID J ANDREONI May 12, 2008 2:14 pm

     I HAVE BEEN WATCHING JOEL OSTEEN FOR A FEW YEARS (31/2 YEARS). I HEAR THE WORD “GOD” REPEATITLY. YOU SIR/MADAM MUST HAVE YOUR HEAD UP YOUR ***. I DO BELIEVE YOU ARE TRYING TO DENEGRADE MR. OSTEEN. PERHAPS YOU ARE ONE OF THE LIBERAL FREAKS OPPOSED TO ORGANIZED RELIGION. I AN NOT A HOLY ROLLER BUT, THE WEEKLY TELECASTS OF MR, OSTEEN PROVIDE A GOOD FEELING FOR MY WIFE AND I.

119. Jellyroll_Jackson May 12, 2008 9:45 pm

     Hey Joel God love’s websites like this. Just Kidding. First and formost I would like to know if you and your fellow bloggers are into organized religion? My other question to you and your bloggers is how many people have paid gross amounts of money to see their favouite rock band or whatever bands play live. Come on people, how many morgaged the farm for that T-shirt. Did anybody loby against that satanic rock band and what side would you of taken? And at the end of that concert, did you not come out of it felling great regardless of what your parents said? I am not into organized religion, in fact I believed religion has caused most of the major issues during the world’s history ie: crusaids, inquisitions etc. A famous person once said that when the last king was strangled by the last entralls of the last priest then man would trully be free. I am a supporter of the website Zeitgeist which is an affront to Christians, but at the same time I am married to a Christian whose faith has been tested too many times. Eventually she watched a free show by Joel Olsteen. Of course I was sceptacle but I indulged her. What I saw was someone who offered hope, and did not offer anything in return. Isn’t that what mankind wants and needs? I do not care in heaven or hell or nothingness. What I care in is mankind clinging to anything that makes them fell good and do good things. Joel Olsteen like the Eagles,Kennedy, Martin Lurther King or any of the other great inspirations in my life have never forced me to join them . They have relied on their message and nothiing more. I am not jealsous of his success nor envious. I believe mankind needs dreams and people to offer these dreams. If someone says something to me that makes me feel good then god love you, because we are in a world of hurt and destruction. If there is someone out there who make’s me feel good about myself, then more power to him/her, I will pay the twenty bucks to him/her ( I have checked their concert sites LOL ). Megachurches are built by people who want something possitive in their lives. If they are built for good (like my parents did) then I refuse to tear them down regardless of my own feelings.

120. Mandy May 13, 2008 6:31 am

     While I know little about Mr. Osteen and his ministry, as a Christian I do know something about Scripture.

     To Ron (March 6, 2008 9:40 am): You, and many others, often quote the judgement scripture out of context. The entire passage reads as follows:

     Matthew 7:1-3 (King James Version)

     [1]Judge not, that ye be not judged. [2]For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

     It does not say NOT to judge others. It is saying be careful who and how you judge for the same standards will be used to judge you.

     The chapter then goes on to say:

     “[15] Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [16] Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?”

     At first glance, Mr. Osteen looks to be a false prophet of Christ. However, I shall do quite a bit more research on him and his ministry before rendering my judgement.

121. Ximena May 14, 2008 1:33 am

     Godly man like Joel Osteen will be always offensive to people who does not know God. BTW the name of God is Jesus, Joel may not say the word God, because he refers to God by His name Jesus. Would you call your friend by his title (eg. engineer) if you know that his name is Michael?

122. j May 15, 2008 8:56 pm

     Wow… it amazes me how stupid some people can be.

     LARRY KING: But you have rules, don’t you?
     JOEL OSTEEN: We do have rules. But the main rule to me is to honor God with your life. To life a life of integrity. Not be selfish. You know, help others. But that’s really the essence of the Christian faith.

     How can you have any respect for someone like this?? Osteen, tell me ONE way you have demonstrated your so called integrity, ONE way you haven’t been selfish. This man disgusts me.

     And to this person:
     “I’m sorry to say this, but your just hating, why because you don’t have the money, yes i’m sure he gets lots of money, but regarless God gave us a mind of our own and i’m sure we can use our own sence, of whats right & wrong or what to believe. I’m reading Joel’s book and I like it. If you were a good person you won’t be writing this about Joel or any other pastor, it’s their life and if you really believe in God, let him take over, why you have to do all this. What do you want to prove? Your probably full of hate, you need to find peace in your heart to be happy and I really hope that you find it.”

     Okkkkay, how is that even an argument? So does that mean we can go rob someone’s house? Because according to you, we’re still using our own sense. Sure, we have the freedom to rob someone’s house, but that doesn’t mean its RIGHT!
     “It’s their life.” um okay so does that mean we’re not allowed to criticize anyone for anything they do?
     “You’re probably full of hate” sure, he might be full of ate, but WITH GOOD REASON

     Osteen, you’re free to “help” people however you want. But don’t use religion to gain listeners and don’t claim to be a christian.

     People who listen to Osteen’s sermons are not christians. They have misinterpreted and misunderstood the Bible. If you need help, go find a therapist.

123. laura May 16, 2008 6:36 am

     i think you are the one who got it all wrong. You cannot critisize somebody for his success ni preaching. Of all the preachers i know he is the best because i understand exactly what he says and i can get what i have heard into practise. I am not simply saying this because he teaches good things about life but he truly explains what the bible says in a simple way while the other preachers explain it in a more context way, they have to use difficult expressions and it discourages the congregation from going to church. Most people go to church and the moment they leave they even don’t have a clue of what was the day’s message. It is better to grasp the little he says every sunday than to live the church everyday without nothing! I truly understand what he preaches i mean every preacher has his own way of interprating the bible and his way is the most appealing to me. So please stop misleading people with the little non-evidence research that you did. If you dont understand him then get your own complex preacher but dont critisize Joel and if not i think you are jealous of the way he communicates to people. Dude you better just research on other things because you dont know what you are saying. If you only knew how his preachings has changed my life …. may God bless him and protect him from the people who want his downfall.

124. nikolas May 16, 2008 6:56 am

     I think you are sick in the head with your stupid research. First of all i dont think you are a true christian because if you were you wouldnt be judging people. I hope Joel prays for you because you seriously need prayers. I think you should remove this website of yours because seriusly you are the one who is going to be sued with your false accusation. Seriously you should stop. This man has realy helped a lot of people to know God and come back to him. I really pray that God may forgive you for Judging a person that you really don’t know about. Ofcourse Paul and the other Apostles of God spread the Good news but were still critisized just as you and the others are doing to Joel. I hope you find the heart to apologize to Joel because i believe he has forgiven you.

125. Dabney Klosterkemper May 16, 2008 9:08 am

     And exactly where is YOUR church and exactly how many lies have you been a part of changing and bring to the Lord? What are your credentials and who made you the kings stone thower?

126. truth seeker May 17, 2008 10:08 pm

     I think Joel Osteen is a great pastor. He doesn’t judge like most people in the church. I’ve known so many so called “believers” call themselves “Christians,” when in reality, THEY ARE NOT FOLLOWING THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS! It’s quite disappointing that my experience with 95% of Christians I know talk like heaven, but act like hell. Constantly JUDGING…CONDEMNING…POINTING FINGERS… Portray a phony outward fisaud of being a Jesus follower, yet inwardly, full of hate and hypocrisy. This is the very reason why non-Christians cringe at the thought of going to church or even engage in a biblical discussion. Christians should FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS, not a religion or a church. And they should stop JUDGING!!!! God (Christian God) is a LOVING, COMPASSIONATE, and Merciful God. You don’t know if God could have given Joel Osteen a great gift, to bring people to Christ, not away like what most churces do….

     I’m a Christian, actually… Sadly to say, I walked away from church two years ago, and almost gave up on my faith altogether because of LEGALISTIC, JUDGEMENTAL Christians I was surrounded by on a daily basis. For the life of me, I could not understand how the Holy Spirit could dwell in such hateful individuals. Not true Christians, perhaps? A true Christian follows the example of Jesus, which is that of LOVE and COMPASSION. Just recently I was visiting with my parent’s at their house, and it had been the first time I watched Joel Osteen’s sermon on tv. I was amazed at his kind and loving sermon, that it actually lead me back to God. Joel didn’t lead me back, but God showed me that a true Christian is a kind, loving, compassionate and forgiving human being, basically, Christ-like. We do not sit on God’s throne to judge one another. We do not have authority to say this person is going to heaven or hell. Many say they believe, but they don’t behave Christian-like. A true Christian is loving and compasionate. Not legalistic and judgemental. If you believe there is a fire in your house, wouldn’t you run out of there as fast as you can? Of course! Why? Naturally, you are reacting to your belief that there is a fire. Well, the same goes for your basic fundamental belief system of Christianity. A true believer bears good fruit. “Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” (Matt 7:20) A true believer will behave in a loving manner without hypocrisy. *READ Romans 12:9-21

     “Judge not, that you be not judged.” (Matt 7:1)

127. jo walk May 18, 2008 11:10 am

     You seriously are not religious as you say, (or even NICE for that matter) because only a person with a hateful attitude can think and talk like you do about anyone. How are YOU helping people? By teaching hate, criticizing and making negative comments on the world wide web? Great, that is just what our society needs, especially our children, to listen to someone like you. Maybe you SHOULD try religion or a self-help guru to soften your cold stone heart.

128. J Coffman May 18, 2008 5:34 pm

     I have no problem with Joel, or his message. Regardless of his background and approach, I have seen nothing evil in what he says. I’d rather see people spend their money on ministries than video games, drugs, alcohol, and stupid internet sites.

129. VINCE May 18, 2008 10:08 pm

     I TO CAUTION MYSELF TO MEGA PREACHERS,HOWEVER, I JUST FINISHED WATCHING ONE OF JOELS BROADCAST ON OPENING OUR WAYS OF THINKING,STEPPING OUT AND TRYING NEW THINGS IN ORDER TO ALLOW US TO GROW. JOEL DID REFER TO SCRIPTURE AS HIS SERMON PROGRESSED AND USED SCRIPTURE TO BACK UP WHAT HE WAS PREACHING ABOUT.

     I HAVE FOUND DISCREPANCIES IN YOUR COMMENT ABOUT JOEL. MAYBE YOU COULD PRAY ABOUT IT AND NOT ALLOW THE ENEMY TO USE YOU LIKE A PAWN.

130. Melissa May 20, 2008 6:14 pm

     No disrespect, but this is just your opinion. I think the Bible also says something about judging others…..
     Look, he may not mention God or Jesus Christ with every word that comes from his lips, but he is very uplifting and I think that may be what people are grasping on to.
     God bless you and I hope that what I have said to you makes some sense.
     Have a good day!
     Melissa

131. wicks May 21, 2008 1:12 am

     43 million in tithes, bestseller on the NY Bestseller list, 34 million in online donation and you have the sorry nerve to critique him. You antiChrist, you pharisee, the very people you killed christ when he was last in town. You realise Jesus was a carpenter and never went to any Bible school….Joel does not need any seminary degree and his megachurch is testimony….so please go hang… The central theme of Christ message was not suffering but redemption. That is what Joel gets which you dont.

132. Starla Bice May 21, 2008 5:09 am

     I know exactly how you feel! Someone I am very close to is a huge Joel Osteen fan. I would have to listen to his sermons on television whether I liked it or not. At the same time I was participating in a Bible Study to earn diapers for my twin babies. I was learning “the real truth,” and it had nothing to do with being healthy, wealthy, and wise all the time. I was the biggest Joel Osteen skeptic. I thought this person was only watching Joel’s programs because he thought that following Joel’s “advice” would make him rich! All I could think about was how they were trying to use God to become rich, and that is not what Christianity is all about! I had read the sinner’s prayer in my Bible study time and again, and I just knew I was a Christian and was going to heaven. One day, I was standing in the kitchen washing baby bottles, and this person was sitting in the living room watching that “blasphemous” program again! He would always repeat the beginning of the program, “This is my Bible, I am what it says I am…” Urgh! He would never repeat the sinner’s prayer at the end of the program or take the advice about going to a good Bible based church. I wasn’t going to church either because I couldn’t stand being amongst all those hypocrites or “perfect” people looking down on me. Anyway, when Joel started saying the sinner’s prayer at the end of the program, I spitefully started repeating it just as loud as I could. What would it hurt? I was already a Christian!

     My eyes began to tear up, I was wheeping uncontrollably! As soon as the prayer was over, I had to go straighten myself up. The very next time I went to church, I didn’t see any hypocrites or “perfect” people. I no longer felt like anyone was playing my horrible past through their minds. All I was there to do was learn about Christianity and worship God. Only months before that I couldn’t understand how I was supposed to want to love and worship someone I couldn’t see, feel, or hear! Now, I see, feel, and hear God every minute of every day! I long to go to church on Sunday to join in fellowship with my new huge family who loves me just the way I am, imperfections and all!

     I spent years and lots of money buying Bibles that I could not understand! Now I can turn just about anywhere in the Bible and find true meaning for my life. It is the most incredible, supernatural experience! I have merely thought about something, and only days later received it. I am thankful for every minute of my life past, present, and future “mistakes” and everything! God has healed my body for which I thought I was going to have to have surgery. I know God personally, and I know Jesus Christ is alive and well. That sounds so crazy, I am sure, but it is true.

     I have heard people call Joel a false prophet and even the antichrist. I dont’ believe that the antichrist will be trying to lead people to the foot of the cross.

     As for Muslims going to heaven? I will not be the judge of that either. The Bible also says to judge others as you would want to be judged! I don’t have to know what everyone else’s intentions are because I have faith that God Almighty with deal with them the way He is dealing with me every day! I completely understand why Joel “dances” around judging another human being. He who is not guilty of sin may cast the first stone. You go ahead and do that; I am guilty! I will save my stones to give to someone who would like to throw them at me. Ha, ha.

     God doesn’t force himself of anyone, why should I try to force God on someone else? I am not saying anything about any other preacher either. I feel like they are doing exactly what God intends for them to do too. If they are not, well that is not my problem. I stay so busy telling people how good God is, I don’t have time to try to condemn another person.

     All I know is that I went from one of the biggest Joel Osteen critics to thanking God for his existence! What you don’t see on television is what he does with all that money. I know from talking with a pastor from another local church that Joel has discipleship training going on every day or almost every day. He also goes oversees on missions and all over the U.S. I was totally shocked when I discovered this. Why doesn’t he just tell everyone what he is doing? He is too busy serving God to worry about what anyone else thinks of him. That is my opinion.

     I went from being scared of everything even my own shadow, to having almost no fear whatsoever at all! The one battle I keep having is telling every one everything I believe for fear of persecution. Persecution is as simple as being annoyed by someone else because of my belief. Here is the proof of that right here. Why would Joel want to persecute someone else because of their belief? How would that help Muslim people want to seek Christ? It might make you feel better for a moment until you find something else to rag him about.

     Oh, by the way, I have written tons of letters to Joel and Victoria. They have not once replied to any of them. At first, I didn’t know what to think. It kind of hurt my feelings that I was crying out to them for help and understanding and they couldn’t even contact me. Then, I turned to my pastor and his wife and they have encouraged me totally. Now I know that Joel and Victoria are so busy serving the Lord that they don’t have time to contact me. How do I know and accept this fact? I am experiencing the same thing. Since becoming a Christian and being obedient, I have had many people drawn to me. God’s love really is contagious! I don’t have enough time to minister to everyone I want to and tend to my family and do everything! This is enough to stress anyone out. When this happens, God reminds me that I have eternity and that it is a sin to worry!

     The truth is in the Bible! The Bible is the Living Word. I can’t tell anyone else how to live. That is why my relationship with Jesus Christ is personal. He answers all my questions in His time through the Bible and other people, television, and radio! He lets me know what to take in and what to toss in the boneyard.

     If you think you are in control of your life and even your own thoughts, I guess you have never wound up in a room scratching your head wondering why you went in there in the first place. God is sooooo Amazing!!!

     All one has to do is believe in their heart that God is real and confess with their mouth “Jesus is Lord,” and everything will begin to change! Then it is up to you to seek the truth with an open mind and heart! I have noticed that most of those “have to do this and that” have become my wants and desires to do or they are just not important anymore. I don’t know how better to explain it. Words cannot describe the absolute bliss and freedom I now call life!

     Life will go on and there will always be pain and suffering. I know in my heart though that I will never have pain or suffering in vein! I learn the greatest lessons when I am humbled. God has also taught me some of the greatest life lessons through listening to my children among other people. Thank you for taking the time to read my opinion and comments. God bless you!

133. Cassie May 21, 2008 8:57 am

     I can’t believe how seriously people take all of this…to the point of name calling and judging and putting down the author of the blog, “Joel.” Joel in my opinion, is just trying to stir things up a little bit and get people riled up. And how easily alot do get riled up! In my humble opinion, IF you are a Christian, you are obligated to pray for Joel the blogger and respond to him in love. “By THIS, shall all men know you are my disciples, that you have love one for another.” It means loving what we may consider the unloving or ugly. God takes care of His own, as far as Joel Osteen is concerned. “No weapon formed against you (Joel O.) will prosper,but every tongue that condemns you in judgement, you shall condemn.” Joel, the blogger loves to, and is a great debater. (If you haven’t already figured that out!) “Wounded people wound people.” Have you ever stopped to ponder why Joel the blogger has so much criticism Jo and hurt towards authority in the ministry? Perhaps he was terribly hurt, disappointed and let down at one time. And no, he has not been able to “get over it.” We ALL want love and acceptance more than anything else. Perhaps people in the ministry that Joel loved and looked up to, hurt him and let him down in a very devastating way. Perhaps they preached one thing to Joel but lived an entirely different “gospel” in front of him. I don’t believe Christ would fly at Joel the blogger pecking him to pieces over his viewpoints…I think He would look past all the talk,hype and bravado into a very injured heart and spirit. I think Christ would touch Joel and pray for him, that he would be made whole.
     (Joel, the blogger) “Love covers a multitude of sins.” Quit judging and pull the logs out of your own eyes, before you try to get the splinter out of this young guy’s eye.
     Ask Christ to give you His spirit and outlook towards Joel and how to respond. I pray for the healing of his shattered heart. I pray that he would KNOW that he is loved, both by God and man. I know you will probably shake your head in disbelief, but since this young man was a small child, he has had a very sensitive and sweet spirit. Events transpired over which he had absolutely no control, he prayed with only the desperation and innocence with which a child can pray…things did not turn out the way he had begged God to intervene and turn things around. I could see the hard wall of hurt, resentment and lonliness growing over his heart. My prayer is that he will be healed, made whole and find his way back to the true burden bearer.

134. Vicki Warner May 21, 2008 8:54 pm

     Wow, I can not believe that people don not have anything better to do than bash a wonderful man like Joel Osteen. I have worked and attended a couple of his events when he comes near where I live. I look forward each year for this uplifting sermon. He does NOT charge $360 a seat! He only charges $10-$15 a seat!!!!!!!!!Why bash the guy, he tells the truth, which alot of people don’t have the guts to listen to! He speaks of God, He speaks of Christ, He speaks of the Bible. As far as money, he does not advertise or ask for money, people give freely as all churches do to survive. I am Lutheran since baptized as a baby. I have gone to church through the years listening to our pastors, some were ok and most were very boring and I did not get much from their sermons. Every sermon I have heard from Joel I could relate and understand and come away with hope love and strength especially in times we go through today. Why knock someone doing or trying to do good in life! I was a sceptic of TV Evangelism also, but Joel is different and I feel he is the real thing and not fake. God Bless Him, and I pray he continues his work!

135. Bill Hubbart May 22, 2008 7:36 am

     There is nowhere in the bible that states that you have to go to siminary to be a minister, that is some more of manmade garbage. Jesus said come and follow me and I will make you fisher of men. The question is if you claim to be a christian then we are all called to the ministry are you a whosoever will. You see that is our calling we are not just to be pew sitters, and yes and amen people, but doers of the word. There is no greater gift that we could have received from the Lord, then that calling, to be able and have the privilege to share Christ Love with this lost world that we live in. I’m not defending Joel, I’m just saying that, that he didn’t ask for any of it in fact he started out just being content being a camera man for his fathers ministry, then his father went home to be with the Lord, and the Holy Spirit spoke to him about taking the lead of his fathers ministry, and listened to the voice of the Holy Spirit Praise God. He’s just being real and not Holier than thou, He leaves the judging up to God as it should be. Amen! I could go on and on but if you’re not a Christian than you won’t understand this anyway.

136. Susan May 23, 2008 12:29 pm

     For the person who took this time to write all thes bad things about Joel Osteen, have you ever read the Bible? God picks who He chooses, and your really bringing trouble into your life by bringing up strife. Joel Osteen won’t condemn anyone, he is not here to judge anyone……Or just like Jesus said Let one of you with no sin cast the first stone………..

137. Susan May 23, 2008 1:08 pm

     To blogger Joel,

     You made alot of valid points and raised questions about something your obviously concerned about. But let me ask you this how many times in your life have you been adament about a belief only to find out later in life you had a totally opposite opinion because you didn’t know ALL of the FACTS. I am a christian, I watch Joel Osteen and listen to his podcast, he has helped me alot in my spiritual life. I guess that’s the whole point, my spiritual life, I have a relationship with God, but still don’t understand all things about the Bible. For example when Moses came down from being with God and having the Ten Commandments in his hand, he saw the people praising the golden calf of baal. What amazes me is that he throw the tablets down, made the people choose to either follow God or follow baal, 3000 chose baal—then Moses and his men immediately slain them–right after coming down from God telling him Thou shall not kill————????????
     I don’t have all the answers, and I could easily sit here and judge God, the Bible, it’s contents, and christianity, instead I seek Gods answer to that question. There are things that will be revealed later.
     Can you tell me why what anyone else does bother you, we all have to answer each for our own sin. There’s too much hate in this world and too much killing over religion and who’s God is God……….I would hope in some way you receive resolution over this issue because hate of any kind is a terrible thing.

138. Cassie May 23, 2008 11:05 pm

     Joel,
     I agree with most of what you have to say. You pick up on some interesting topics-and ones that really get people heated! lol I have read several replies to your blog also where people seem to think you are Joel Osteen…maybe next, they will be sending you their offerings!

139. Starla Bice May 24, 2008 4:26 am

     To Joel Gross:
     I am very impressed with what you are doing for yourself through “bashing” Joel Osteen. I didn’t know anything about you until I started reading these blogs. I clicked on the link to your other website and read a little about you. I know in my heart that God has big plans for you! You are very well educated, and I am proud for you of your great accomplishments. Congratulations! You are definitely smarter and much more educated than I am currently.

     The above comments I made are not at all sarcastic! I truly admire your self image. Before receiving Christ, I could never have imagined being so bold. I can’t help but wonder if you have ever experienced Jesus? See I was saved and baptized as a child (9 years old). I just didn’t remember it. Now, 32, I have only been “claiming” to be a Christian for about 7 months. During that 25-year “gap” I fell away from Christ. I tried to go to church because I knew that was what “good” people do. I always left running and feeling so bad about myself. I thought people who went to church thought they were perfect, and I knew I was not. I also felt ashamed of everything I had ever done because I thought all those “Christians” were looking down on me and playing my horrible life through their minds. Have you ever felt like this? I denied Christianity because I thought they were a bunch of hypocrites. Now I know that being a Christian doesn’t mean being perfect! Since I have started “claiming” to be a Christian, my life has changed dramatically. I am overflowing with peace, love, joy, and I know I am not perfect and don’t have to be. I don’t HAVE to do anything. I do what I WANT to do. The huge difference is that my WANTS have changed drastically.

     I know you are very smart, but have you experienced true wisdom and understanding? How are you in the area of patience? Are you overflowing with peace, love, and joy? I pray that you will experience these wonderful attributes very soon if not already! God bless you, Joel Gross, and everyone else who takes time to read this! Please look over my spelling errors, I don’t have time to try to appear perfect in any matter. Thank you!

140. Robert A. Guill May 24, 2008 5:59 pm

     NOONE CAN MAKE JUDGEMENT ON ANYONE FOR YOU TO WRTIE THAT JOEL’S A FAKE YOU NEED TO STUDY AND PRAY BECAUSE YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT. THIS ARTICLE IS GARBAGE.

141. Tammy May 25, 2008 9:16 am

     I am frequently entertained by rantings such as this by those with limited intellect. So much so, I shant waste my time correcting your erroneous message except to note none of the disciples had degress of higher education nor did they attend seminary.

     Might I suggest before you attempt to speak on Biblical teachings or theological matters again you study the works of Josephus and research the Bible. Take the time to develop beliefs not based on what others have told you to be so, but based on what you have discovered to be true. Then maybe, just maybe you will be sufficiently prepared to pen an accurate commentary.

142. gloria May 25, 2008 5:31 pm

     I think you are the world’s biggest loser, You are just jealous of all of Joel success!

143. Billy May 25, 2008 6:23 pm

     I thank God that I have a Bible believing Pastor that will preach God’s word unlike Joel Osteen. Mr. Osteen, I’m afraid, is leading way to many people down the wide path to destruction. If you are a true Christian believer you believe in the death, burial & resurrection of Christ. You also believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven. This guy is almost as bad as Benny Hinn.

144. robert May 26, 2008 4:53 pm

     I am not as well verse as you are on scripture, been born again just about a year and half. That being said i have been blessed with the holy spirit and allow to see where I could not see. It is funny that when I first used to hear this man I was mesmorized by his words but after my new found relationship with christ I see this man for what he is. I too find it disturbing that he continues to ignore talking about sin.For even someone as ignorat as I to our lords teaching understand that it is because of our sins that he came and establish the new covenent. I due pray that he would open his heart and allow our lord to use him as a tool for his glory since he has the attention of millions.For their is no greater joy then to turn your life to christ and allow him to be our sheppard and know that you do not die but rather live when you open his door to salvation. Thank you brother in christ for having the strengh and courage to have christ be you guide for with god how can one loose.

145. John May 26, 2008 8:53 pm

     The person who wrote this article is extremely stupid and freedom of speech means even an idiot has it.

146. Dale May 30, 2008 8:52 pm

     We go to heaven by accepting Jesus Christ of Nazareth as our Lord and Savior, not Mohammed etc. The God I know says to LOVE, not KILL others who don’t accept their beliefs. Why don’t you go preach to the killers who have no heart or soul?

147. fCassie May 31, 2008 10:23 pm

     WOW- first time I have read Joel’s analysis of Joel Osteen. I got a whole sermon message out of Joel the Blogger from reading the above! I don’t think he is trying to drag anyone down or discredit them, but compare the Word, God’s Word with what Joel Osteen is saying and doing. If you are going to be in a worldwide ministry,i.e., spotlight, you can expect to be examined under a microscope, in fact, be prepared for it. “For ALL have sinned and come short of the glory of God….”

148. Jason June 1, 2008 5:54 am

     The ridiculous drivel that the author of this blog generates is absolutely hilarious. People like you are why I left the church (not neccessarily my faith) many years ago. Last time I checked, only God had the true power to judge people. Yet, you have decided to take it upon yourself to pass judgement on a man who has never been convicted of a crime or spoken a negative word about those around him. Instead he speaks of hope, happiness, and living life to the fullest. He is not a liar, he admits his lack of biblical schooling, yet you brand him as a deceiver.

     You blast him for bringing in so much money. Have you once researched to find how many people have jobs now because of his success? How about how many charitble organizations now receive more money from his church? Sure he is successful and wealthy, but he doesn’t drive a Bugatti, doesn’t have a bowling alley in his house, nor does his wife walk around town in bling-bling jewelery.

     You blast him for not stating on public national television that Muslims, Hindus, Jews, non-believers will not make it to heaven. Instead, he does give a vague answer and shows a respect for those who do have a belief in their God. Did you ever think that he is smart enough to realize that a direct answer saying “No, only devout bible-based beleivers in Christianity will go to heaven” would close any possible dialogue between his church and a non-believer?

     Let me ask you this…What if a Muslim who wanted to open dialogue with you about becoming a Muslim said “since you have not accepted Allah and Mohammed as His prophet, you shall spend all eternity in damnation and pain.”? How open would you be to speaking with that person? It is easy to tell you wouldn’t. So maybe, just maybe, he doesn’t make such a direct statement in hopes that non-Christians will at least be willing to listen and have dialogue, with the end goal being converting those people to Christianity through a more personal process that isn’t seen on camera in front of millions of people.

     So before, you simply spout off various biblical scriptures, which don’t even support your points by the way, (find me one that says that preaching joy and happiness is sinful and maybe you can quote it…), try opening your mind up and making a bigger analysis of the situation. Realize that people might try to reach people in a different way, one that doesn’t make sense to you, but makes sense to the people who are being reached. One that helps them make a small step in the right direction, maybe not the whole way quite yet, but at least a step in the right direction. If Joel Osteen’s minsitry gets a 17 year old drug-addicted female prositute to change her ways and at least live a better life simply by telling her she is worth it and she can be happy in a better way,… is that so wrong?

     You know what the funny thing is…Joel Osteen annoys the hell out of me.

149. julius paler June 1, 2008 5:08 pm

     hey
     who is the author of this article? or shall i say a rotten, nonsense critical article…hey author remember this, it’s hard to kick against the prick. God said do not pick on His anointed one…if you are a member of a christian church, u are a religious person just like any pharisse in the bible, Jesus hates them. or probobly you are a member of a satanist group, that’t what they do right? they want do destroy God’s work…you repent and accept Jesus as your Lord and saviour, so that God will not destroy you.

150. Buddy June 2, 2008 6:08 am

     When we talk mega church,do we include Catholics(wealthest religion in world)?
     Every show I have seen with Joel ends in,”Join a Bible based church”. I have never seen him ask for money like others on tv. His show sells for $15 a ticket! I wish people would investigate before making stupid comments. Oh, I forgot you watched Larry King-your idol, I take it. People with no faith always attack the faithful any way they can and they even interpret the Bible for us! Wow, what kind of training do you have? Sorry to be so negative, as God has a place for us all, including you.
     God Bless

151. Aimee June 4, 2008 10:51 am

     I understand your opinion on this matter and by far im not agreeing or disagreeing with you on the situation at hand, but what i do think is that its not your place to say whether you think he his a false prophecy or not. If you dont like what he preaches about or if you think he is not fully knowledged on the word of God, than dont listen to him, the worst thing you can do is go around talking bad about others, i believe there are all kinds of quotes in the bible about judging others and this whole web page has been nothing but that!!! Just drop it, your waisting your time because hes going to continue preaching and your thoughts are not going to change that!

152. DONNA June 5, 2008 6:45 am

     I am a Christian. I believe their is a difference between being Christian and being religious. I have come to know God and Jesus Christ in the past 3 years and they ARE REAL!
     I guess I would like to know as you have quoted many items out of the Bible.
     The one I have to say to you is, You have no right to judge. “take the LOG out of your own eye, before you can remove the SPECK from someone else’s”.
     I am a fan of the Bible. I have listened to Joel Osteen and have read some of his books. If nothing else, he gives hope and specializes in teaching people to have a personal relationship with God.

     DO NO HARM
     DO GOOD
     PUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD FIRST IN YOUR LIFE.
     Everyone for some reason LOVE’S a scandal. Look for the truth or scandal in your own life, clean it up, before you point fingers at others.
     In His

153. BD June 6, 2008 1:15 pm

     I don’t watch Joel on tv so I can’t really say whether he is a good or bad preacher. One thing he says, though, struck me. I am a Christian because that is how I was raised and the religion I am most comfortable with. But I’m not so sure the Christ is “the only way” to heaven. I don’t think anybody but God can really know. We as humans only know a tiny bit of what God knows and there are few things we can say with certainty. Whether or not someone is going to heaven is not something we can say for sure – that is between that person and God. Personally I think there are different ways to God and Heaven. All of the world religions point to the same God. Is that just a coincidence? I don’t think so. Are the only people in Heaven Christians? I don’t think so. God knows I feel this way because I talk to Him about it often. And I feel that if I am wrong, then God will change my heart. So I would be careful about saying with certainty that certain people aren’t going to Heaven – because the fact of the matter is that you really don’t know.

154. marie June 6, 2008 1:24 pm

     I just want to say. THERE IS NO SCANDAL HERE DUDE. The author clearly needs to get a life and live it.

155. Buddy Brown June 7, 2008 8:37 pm

     I have only heard 3 and1/2 minutes of a sermon Olsteen gave. He mentioned GOD 5 times in 3 and 1/2 minutes, so I think you don’t know what you are talking about. You probably need to quit commenting on religion.
     Buddy

156. larry stutes June 8, 2008 7:55 am

     I have been screwed by so many so called legit organizations, starting with the united states government, one more isnt going to hurt,if that it what this thing is. The rest of them just didnt feel as good as this one! you can fool some of the people some of the time but not all of them all of the time. Joel has got something all these people like and there is a lot of them and they aint stupid either. if you dont like what he is dishing out go find another line to boo hoo in and get off OUR cloud jerk! I am going to stay around for awhile.

157. larry lloyd sr. June 8, 2008 5:10 pm

     let me get this straight some one speaks of being positive and loving your self and others. walking in faith and gods glory and you have a problem with that. maybe your problem is in your narrow view of your self and your world… correct me if im wrong but didnt this happen once before??? Let me tell you a story!!! A baby was born to a virgin and a shepard …. If you dont know how that turns out you should as mr osteen says ” get into a good bible based church” and may god have mercy on your soul

158. ANGELA June 8, 2008 5:16 pm

     I THINK JOEL IS GREAT…THE REAL THING! THESE PEOPLE WHO ARE SAYING ALL THIS NEGATIVE JUNK ABOUT HIM IS PROBABLY JUST “FAKE” PEOPLE THEMSELVES!!

     I COULD LISTEN TO JOEL ALL DAY….HE HAS A GREAT GIFT SO PEOPLE CAN UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING HE IS TALKING ABOUT……NOT SOME OF THESE FAKE PREACHERS WHO DON’T EVEN UNDERSTAND THE BIBLE AND READ STRAIGHT FROM IT …….ANYBODY CAN DO THAT!!

     KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK JOEL…..YOU ARE GENUINE……NOT A HIPICRIT LIKE ALOT OF PEOPLE….

159. Amanda June 8, 2008 9:48 pm

     To preface: I am an atheist, and so this comment may play directly to the point you’re trying to make…
     I am soundly non-religious and find almost every telepreacher/scammychurchthing/literalbibletakers to be absurd. I find the fundamentalist position on homosexuality to be arcane, bigoted and depressing. I don’t trust these people one bit…All this being said, Joel Olsteen seems like an ok sort of guy to me. I’m not planning on giving him money or accepting Jesus Christ as my lord and savior, but I don’t see what’s so wrong with a preacher giving kinder, more well-rounded and welcoming sermons than his fire-and-brimstone fellows. Olsteen may be a charlatan, I don’t know, but to pick on him for being TOO accepting?
     For allowing that there may be value in other belief systems and focusing on positive rather than negative aspects of his own chosen faith?
     That just seems weird.
     With half the other Jimmy-swaggart-y people running around with blow and underaged hookers, I think that if the only scandal Joel Olsteen has gotten himself into is this benign and ( to go so far) this encouraging, then he should be commended not decried.
     If your position is that of the moral majority, or you’re all right-wing christians then you’ve probably stopped reading by now anyway, but I stumbled upon this blog and being as Olsteen is the only one of these people I can stomach, the topic seemed worthy of comment.
     Anyway I just thought this was about people named Joel, not religion but apparently I was wrong.

160. Cassie June 9, 2008 2:42 am

     I just happened to flick the TV on last night, and what to my wondering eyes should appear, but Joel Osteen having some kind of interview by Dateline. Joel said himself, that he wants “all people leaving his church to feel good about themselves and maybe have hope that they can accomplish something that has only been a dream previously. I think thats great. But the Bible is very clear that there are ways to get close to God. Read your Bible, pray, spend time talking to God, trusting in Him to do whats best in your life. The Bible is also very clear that we are in a “war” down here on this earth. The devil and his rebellious demons who fell from heaven as lightening with him, and Jeus Christ. Right now, until Christ’s second return for his church or “Bride” Satan is in charge of this planet. Don’t ever underestimate his desire to ruin your eternity and the lengths he will go to do it.
     I want a preacher who preaches the “full Gospel.” Not just that which calms my fears momentarily and makes me “feel good.” So many hurting people today, are all searching for meaning in their lives and to “feel Good.” I think everyone is entitled to their own opinions about preachers and televangelists…but I want to know that everything they are saying is the entire Truth from the Word of God, not just some little cliches that warm my heart momentarily. I know enough by now, to know that the only way, and I mean the Only Way to feel good about who I am and what I am doing, is to KNOW WHO God says that I am, and what He wants me to be doing, even if its just working with babies in the nursery at church, cleaning the church sanctuary up after church, praying for our church’s leadership. I am so grateful to God, I have failed him and those closest to me so miserably-yet He welcomed me home with open arms and a “banquet feast” in my honor. I think the Joel that writes this blog is a deep thinker, a bit of a tease and torment and really testing everything he has been told by those “in the know in church , and those he knows that call themselves: “Christians.” I think he is just dying to see someone living out at whatever personal cost to themselves what they say they believe. He has probably heard many a fine preacher, but seen few lives that actually give 100% to live what they say they believe! People watch us all the time, do our words match up with our actions?

161. lady_day1998 June 9, 2008 5:06 am

     I find it funny that you think Joel is wrong for not condemning sinners, it is not his place as a man of God to condemn anyone no matter what they may have done. When Jesus came down he came to save the sinner not condemn them if YOU would take the time to read the BIBLE YOU might learn a thing or too like where God says in Matthew 7:1 “Judge not least ye be judged”, or Luke 6:37 “judge not and ye shall not be judged, CONDEMN not and ye shall not be CONDEMNED, FORGIVE and ye shall be FORGIVEN.” This man may not be perfect (but really who is) who are we to judge.

162. Jill Cagle June 9, 2008 4:31 pm

     You are right. You do not have religion . This totally suprises me for someone who quotes the Bible as much as you do. The claim that Joel is running a scam is a complete assumption on your part. I can not believe that yiou compared him to Jim Jones. It seems to me that you are more interested in an argument than getting to the truth. ( something that the Pharisees and Saducees tried to do) Unlesss you know Mr. Osteen personally, his family etc. who are you to judge him or anyone for that matter? That is a sin as I am sure you know. Have you really watched his show. All of his messages are 100% Bible based. Just as most pastors do, he has scripture that he picks out and then builds a message around that. The scriptures are quoted on the TV screen all thru his program that ties in with his message. He definitely preaches on the positive. I have never ever seen in the Bible where it says that we are supposed to be negative. In fact we are to be the exact opposite as we have received grace and forgiveness as you quoted earlier. For you to assume that he will be part of a scandal at some point is pretty bold of you. I actually feel sorry for you. You might want to take a look at your self before you go judging others. For a person who is not religious, you sure know how to quote the Bible. That can be a really good thing if you are taking the scriptures for what they are. Gods law for everyone. i do not believe that God wants us to use his book to try and make others look bad. Especially when we do not accept him ourselves. I hope that God will touch your heart and you will come to know him .Grace and faith are free gifts to everyone and that is a wonderful gift that we each receive. That is Very GOOD NEWS not a scam. I am so glad that none of us on this earth will be the judge at the end of this life.

163. Erik June 10, 2008 10:31 pm

     arguments are a positive way to express your feelings…i myself search out a good argument on a daily basis..but lets be real here, it is not a scam to ask for donations and charge a fee for a seat at a Joel concert.. obviously the man gives the people the “product or service” that they desire otherwise they would not keep watching, buying, attending and donating to the mega church czar a.k.a Joel Osteen…get over yourselves and find a better hobby…preferably a hobby that does’t involve trying to smear people because your a misreable bitter player hatin cun*…

164. James Huckaby June 12, 2008 7:50 am

     The man tries to help people live a better life and you try to tear down people.

     You suck

165. JESSICA June 16, 2008 7:50 am

     You need Jesus in your life! Joel Osteen is a WONFERFUL and anointed man. And you sir are a sad and miserable being and if you actually spent your time LISTENING to Joel instead on condemning him it would actually change your life for the better. I would also like to add that just because you had an opportunity to write an article about who you obviously know nothing about you think you matter but believe me your are only making a fool of yourself. If Joel did read your article you can rest assure that all he did was PRAY for you and your ignorance as I will do.

166. Jennifer June 16, 2008 10:09 pm

     I’m right there with ya on this one! I remember seeing him on tv late at night one time and like a month later hes friggin everywhere! I turned to my fiance and said.. “its the anit-christ” he laughed and said ” I totally agree” lol

167. jj June 22, 2008 6:35 am

     i was looking for the time and channel that joel osteen comes on tv because he comes on at different times. that’s when i came across this site. i really like joel osteen, so i was disappointed when i read the things that has been said about him.
     so i will say this in his defense..with all the negativity in our world today,what is wrong with having and preaching about a positive mental attitude? he doesn’t talk about who will go to heaven or hell if you aren’t christian? i am christian mainly because of upbringing but i cannot say that christianity is the way. it is my way. it isn’t the oldest religion. just because the jews don’t believe that jesus is the mesiah means that their religion is wrong? there are a lot of things that don’t add up in a lot of religions, therefore why condemn anyones religion because they aren’t christian? there are people in the pacific islands, asia, africa, central and south america who live in the bush, are nomads, etc who know nothing about our religion, and believe in the sun the moon, etc,, are they going to hell? i watch a few televangelist on tv… charles stanley, schuller to name a few… charles stanley comes on first and olsteen comes on tv right after him. one day i thought of something… i gave them the names of, “good cop bad cop” they both are right, they just say it differently to get results.
     can we just be happy that he does not have a scandal, or the fact that you don’t see him begging for money and that he is all about joy?

168. Gloria Stinson June 22, 2008 11:48 pm

     excuse me but didnt you say he has never been involved in a scandal?? and doesnt it say in the bible something about judging others less you be judged?? Joel hurts no one, he makes them smile, they should go to a good bible based church for training- as Joel says in his t.v show

169. Ree Siow June 23, 2008 11:21 am

     Joel Osteen gives me hope everyday and when I am feelin crappy about work, my family or my financial problems, I turn to God and pray. I also think about Joel Osteen and his positive messages he sends to everyone. What gets me is what gives you the right to judge him? Only GOD can judge us and when it is your turn to go to the big pearly gates, are you going to get through to awesome heaven when all you did was condemn on of Jesus’ helpers? I have never donated any money to his program not have I bought any of his books. Why? Because I can barely take care of myself and my children BUT, I know I can watch his show and feel so blessed.
     Why not condemn Osama Bin Laden, Barack OBama, or Charles Manson or child abusers, elder abusers? You seem to be real good at that. God Bless you and yours.

170. abby June 24, 2008 1:39 am

     i think everyone is making a fuss about nothing in particular.Joel Osteen is such a motivational speaker and a man of God so to say why then do we always have to look for unfounded and baseless arguments just to portray him in bad light?I think his style of teaching God’s word is more appealing to this generation of which he gets to convert more souls for God’s glory which is all that matters.We should appreciate what pastor Osteen is doing instead of condemning him i mean so what if his church is in a sports arena does that make it less spiritual?The tithes and contributions the congregation give is out of free will not forced so until y’all can come up with some hardcore evidence that joel Osteen is not who we think he is then y’all need to shut up and listen as he delivers the good news.

171. Mike June 24, 2008 5:11 am

     check this Joel mock-up video out

     http://www.jesusclips.com/view_video.php?viewkey=40f0c74a814ec9237b6e

172. Jami June 25, 2008 3:07 pm

     Here’s what I have to say……obviously you are very good at gathering alot of information and putting it on paper for your use, which in this case is for whatever reason, wanting to “judge” another human being, who whether you like the methodology or not, absolutely is helping alot of people, yes millions, learn to live a better life by living and seeing the world differently. Why do you need to lump him into a category of failed people? In the Larry King interview, I believe Joel’s point he was trying to make and I whole hearidly agree with, is that no human has the right to judge or place condemnation on another, that is between each person and God alone.You can believe that one act or another will not lead someone to heaven, or hell unless they make peace with God, but you have to be very careful going around and saying “all Jews are going to hell because they don’t believe Jesus died for their sins”. First of all they do believe Jesus existed and was a wise prophet, they just don’t believe he was the mesiah, ok………….Jesus was a Jew……..ok, how can any mortal human know what God’s eternal plan for all creatures is? If you are correct and Joel Olsteen is the evil man that you portray him as, then don’t you worry, his day will come in judgement with God, he doesn’t need you to put him in his place!

     Second and addressing your concern over the earning capacity of his church. The records of non-profit organizations, which a church is, are I believe public record. That is why there are usually committees that have members attend who review treasurery reports and vote on budgets and stuff. There are probably at least some portions of this that is public record, including his salary if really care to know how much it costs to run a church that big. May be harder to get to in an organization tha big. You only seem to care how much it brings in, not how much it costs….and frankly, you have no idea how many charitable organizations they are involved in, you make it sound like the plate is passed, he dumps it in his pocket and heads home every Sunday. Outside of the church, if the guy rights books and books public appearances and gets paid for that, more power to him, but that salary earning capacity is available to you and me and everybody else to the extent that we are able to sell ourselves as someone people want to listen to. Let me say it again….PEOPLE WANT TO LISTEN TO HIM….which correlates into people are willing to pay to listen to him. How is that a scam? When I buy a John Grisham book, is that a scam too? Was I dupped into a false mystery novel if the ending isn’t exactly how the byline sold it?

     As for any other preacher, christian, rabi or any human being who makes a bad choice and commits any sin, they are humans, we are all humans, we all have sinned and will sin. However, when you are in the public eye and sin, particularly a hanous crime, well then the crime is also in the public eye and that’s the price you pay for fame.

     What I tell myself when I catch myself wanting to judge someone else, for what it’s worth, I turn around and if I stare in the mirror long enough, I find plenty of my own flaws to work on and by working on being a better, kinder, more loving person to others, I will help to make the world a better place. You feell me dawg? Take that for what you will.

173. Jami June 25, 2008 3:13 pm

     By the way, I do want to thank you for this website, it is through diaglogue like yours that we get the chance to see all sorts of interesting points of view and share ideas and maybe some of the more positive comments about church and God will serve to touch someone’s life.

174. Joel June 25, 2008 3:14 pm

     Thank you Jami!

175. MAIRO June 27, 2008 7:52 am

     i am totally convinced of your sheepish jealousy against the man of God. Why cant you find something tangible to do?

176. Cassie June 28, 2008 7:01 am

     Joel Osteen is clearly like many an offspring of a “ministerial family.” – “You stand for everything, you will fall for nothing.” Not wanting to “offend” someone is exactly the opposite of what our Lord and Savior did. He called it what it was. He did not win many friends or influence people in his direction by doing this, but He performed the will of His Father. It says clearly in the Bible “there will be many antichrists in the end times.” That is why its so important that we know ourselves, individually what the Word of God says. It’s His main letter/method of communication with us. How can we ask for a “special revelation” or a “special word” from God, when we haven’t already read and know the letter he left with us? The Bible! I challenge you, read your Bible, or a translation that you can understand, from cover to cover. Let Him speak to You through His written Word. If you ask, He will show you what the Truth is, He never leaves His children in the dark. Ask Him to examine your own heart.

177. Peter June 29, 2008 6:34 am

     You are lying. I truely am sorry if you were molested but Joel Osteen did not do it and he will not wether all the pastors before him did or not. You sound like you would rather destroy this world you perceive as hell than save it.

178. Francesca Erasmus June 30, 2008 7:19 am

     Hi,

     Read some of the scathing articles about Joel you have here.1 Well done ! I see Joel as having a kind heart and is positive, but you guys !!

     Whatsoever things are pure whatsoevr things are clean and of good report… think on those things .. certainly wont waste my time on your guys thoughts!
     PS maybe you should listen to Joel one day probably do your heart good.
     GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR LIFE

179. happydollie July 1, 2008 3:51 pm

     I believe Joel does talk about God. You need to pay attention to the positive in others and not the negative. Your webpage is poor, I’ve never read something so degrading.You need to read over your best life now there is alot of references to God. I guess you are just critical, you just look for someone without faults and then you find a fault.I enjoyed reading your best life now it brought me closer to God and his plan for my life. Joel is an inspiration,I believe God is using Joel to spread his word.

180. jaye July 2, 2008 2:41 pm

     Dearest my brethren,

     I believe spirit of jealousy is an enemy and this is not the spirit that God has given us instead spirit of love as God have loved us and the bible said we also ought to love one another..Not putting down his brother or sister in christ because he is jealous or judging others thought or criticized the man of God. Joel Osteens ministry really blessed by God and God prospering him abundantly because Joel is an instrument so that whoever hears his preaching will never be the same person and many people including me has now changed,living with faith to Jesus. you must be thankful guys as many people are now saved and coming closer to Jesus through Joel Osteen.
     Anyway behalf of Joel and the Lakewood church, we love you guys, in Gods time God will take you to the higher level every area of your life or even highest to the highest.live in peace and do not allow destructions in your mind but to JESUS alone the author and the finisher of your faith.God bless.

181. PROPCHEY July 8, 2008 4:12 pm

     FIRST OFF ITS A OUT RAGE PATORS ARE JUDGEING HIM. ARE THEY GOD! NO THERE NOT! REMEMBER THAT. JOELOSTEEN IS BLESS FROM ARE FATHER IN HEAVEN. HE BLESS US IN DIFFERENT WAYS . THAT WE COULD HANDLE. BY SAY ANYTHING ABOUT JOEL JUST MEENS YOUR ON THE WRONG SIDE! ANY ONE WHO SAY ANYTHING ABOUT HIM IS WRONG! ONLY ONE PERSON IS THE JUDGE AND THATS GOD! FROM WHAT IVE SEEN AND HEARD FROM ALL THESE PATORS IS SAD. I SEE THE DEVIL COMMING OUT IN THEM. SO YOU BETTER THINK REAL HARD IN WHAT YOU SAY AND DO BEFORE YOU DO IT! THATS ARE BROTHER BE HAPPY FOR WHAT HE IS DOING!JEALOUSY IS NOT WORK FROM GOD!!!!!!!!!!!

182. DAVID July 9, 2008 11:17 am

     I THINK YOU ARE EXTREMELY JEALOUS AND YOU ARE TRYING WITH ALL YOUR MIGHT TO TEAR DOWN A MAN WHO IS BLEMISH FREE. YOU ARE JEALOUS OF HIS SUCCESS AND YOU ARE CLOSE MINDED. I AM A CATHOLIC BUT LET ME TELL YOU THIS, I LOVE JOEL OSTEEN! I FEEL THE HOLY SPIRIT IN EVERYTHING HE SAYS. HE BREAKES THE BIBLE DOWN INTO LIFE LESSONS THAT PEOPLE CAN USE LIKE WEAPONS IN A WORLD THAT TRYIES WITH ALL ITS MIGHT TO STEAL OUR JOY AND SANITY. JOEL OSTEEN BRINGS HUMANITY TOGETHER IN THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST! IF YOU CAN’T FEEL THE TRUTH AND THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN EVERYTHING HE PREACHES THEN YOU DON’T KNOW GOD! YOU DON’T KNOW LOVE AND YOU DON’T KNOW CHRIST! MAY YOUR WICKEDNESS CONSUME YOU AND MAY ANGELS SURROUND JOEL OSTEEN ALWAYS PROTECTING HIM FROM EVIL LIKE YOU PEOPLE!!!!!!!!

183. Christopher July 9, 2008 12:30 pm

     Joel Olsteen is one of our favorite pastors, and any trangressions which have occured most likely stem from him being human. Try not to judge! WWJD~x2 would would Jesus do & and what would joel do?

     I assume both would forgive you and pray for you to have peace!

     Take care my brother, we love you!

184. DAVID July 10, 2008 7:37 am

     I NEED TO APPOLOGIZE FOR THE COMMENT I WROTE. I WAS ANGRY BECAUSE AN ATTACK ON JOEL OSTEEN IS LIKE AN ATTACK ON A MEMBER OF MY FAMILY. I DID NOT MEAN TO SAY I HOPE YOUR EVIL CONSUMES YOU. I WOULD NOT BE FOLLOWING JOEL OSTEEN’S EXAMPLE IF I SAID THAT. INSTEAD I WOULD LIKE TO SAY I LOVE YOU AND I PRAY FOR YOU! I THINK YOU ARE A GOOD PERSON AND I SEE THE GOOD IN YOU. I AM HOPEFULL THAT GOD IS SURROUNDING YOU WITH ANGELS AND MELTING YOUR HEART WITH ALL THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT! I KNOW GOD IS GOING TO LET YOU SEE IN JOEL OSTEEN WHAT THE WORLD SEES IN JOEL OSTEEN. I’M CALLING IT BY FAITH!! GOD BLESS YOU MY BROTHER AND MY GOD ALWAYS WATCH OVER YOU!!!

185. DAVID July 10, 2008 7:49 am

     JUST A LITTLE TYPE-O BUT I MENT, “MAY GOD ALWAYS WATCH OVER YOU” FROM MY PREVIOUS COMMENT…….

186. Joel July 10, 2008 8:43 am

     David- I appreciate the apology. Also, in electronic communications typing in all CAPS is considered to be shouting.

187. slm July 10, 2008 8:24 pm

     I think your observations are noteworthy and soundly supported by scripture!

188. Lorelei July 10, 2008 10:30 pm

     My life has been strongly influenced by Joel Osteen. When I see him preach about how God loves us and redeemed us from our sins, it just brings tears to my eyes. I know what I felt is real and I really do not see anything wrong with what he is saying about faith and discovering your God-given calling. I do not appreciate any negative things said about the man, because to be honest, I have never been this motivated to practice my faith and to lean more on God and offer him my whole life. I think I became this because of Joel’s wonderful teaching. He may have a different way (motivational) to encourage others to be closer to the Lord, but I have to say he is effective at introducing people to their faith.

189. Kelly July 11, 2008 2:07 pm

     I moved to Houston in Sept of 2006. I started attending Lakewood in Nov of that year. That church saved my life/Joel Osteen saved my life. I think everyone has right to there opinion, that is why there are different religions/preachers etc so that we all may follow our heart and choose who fits us. I will agree that Pastor Joel does not preach word for word scripture in his sermons BUT it’s what he does preach that saves life. He is a good man, if you met him and went to his church on a regular basis (as I do) you would see the good he is doing! I don’t know why anyone would write such mean, horrbile things about someone they don’t even know. Is that not a sin??????? I think YES is the correct answer to that question at Lakewood or any other church/from any other preacher for the matter. I’m not saying you don’t have a right to your opinion, you do, you should just do to a church that suites you. May God Bless you!

190. Michael July 12, 2008 2:01 am

     This website about Joel Osteen is a lie, i have heard him preach the truth, theres always going to people that will try and attack gods word, joel is annointed, god have mercy on those who judge him, he preaches not to judge and here people are judging him, you people have no right judging him the bible say not to judge your breathern joel doesnt do it so why are some of you all judging him, you people that are judging joel contradict yourselves, you speak of how joel is condemed for not speaking the truth of the word of god but some of you judge him and point fingers, if joel is so bad of a person then wouldnt judging him make you all people people to

191. JC July 13, 2008 9:25 pm

     This is dishonest information on this page! Joel Olsteen talks about God and Jesus all the time! Any weapons formed against Joel Olsteen will not proper in Jesus name!

192. Todd July 14, 2008 4:05 am

     Why would you try and degrade someone that has helped so many? We will pray for you to find the Lord in your life. Don’t resist, join the fight. Joel NEVER dances around God topics. The stuff you quoted contridicts everything you claim.

193. Kenny July 20, 2008 8:20 pm

     TV Megachurches and pastors “usually” use donations money to built churches, well teaching you how to become weathly, the bible also teach you its not very GOOD to be RICH. Its good to work hard for your money(for example, minimum wage or middle class jobs).

194. Kenny July 20, 2008 8:23 pm

     I actually don’t know about joel that much, but i’m just warning you about tv pastors and christians sellers in general.

195. alice July 20, 2008 9:39 pm

     i’ve met joel personally, and Pastor Kevin Gerald is indeed my very own pastor. both are incredibly respectable men. it’d be nice if the people that are being extremly critical about this situation would attend church once in a while instead of being what Champions Centre likes to call CEO christians (christmas and easter only.) i mean, pardon them they’re prospering. why is it ok for dentist and lawyers to have an abundant amount of money but when someone (as in a pastor) has money, the whole world freaks? aren’t they allowed to be blessed? i mean after all, they are doing exactly what the Bible says, bringing people close to God. so what if they have money. they’ve earned it. people need to understand while they are sitting there spectating the Church, millions of peoples’ lives are being changed with the help of the so-called “selfish” “megachurch” Pastors. get to know they’re hearts. then you tell me, is Joel and Kevin so bad?

196. TDW July 22, 2008 7:58 am

     Great arguments. Shoot me an email. For years I’ve been wanting to put together some sort of expose, dedicated Web site or possibly even a book on this type of tax-free FRAUD! My fiancee’s father spotted Joel pulling out of the parking lot in Houston a couple of months ago in his brand new Lamborghini droptop. Damn, I’m in the wrong business!

     Let me know if you would like to work with me on putting something together buddy. Once again, great article.

     TDW, JD, MPH

197. Starla July 24, 2008 7:46 pm

     Joel does not charge admission at his church. When he traveled close to my home the tickets were $10. He brought his family with him too which really touched my heart. He also brought his praise team! It was awesome! I have read a lot of comments about what Joel doesn’t believe or preach, but I completely understand his reasoning behind it, especially not putting down other religions. It has a lot to do with sharing the good news with these people along with everyone else. You can’t exactly witness to someone whose religion you have put down or have said that they are going to hell because of what they believe or don’t believe. Knowledge consists of wisdom AND understanding! If Joel didn’t believe in Jesus and the great salvation that comes from Christ, he probably wouldn’t say a prayer at the end of his sermon asking Jesus to come into our hearts. Do you think? The most simple way I have explained this to others is that Joel’s calling in my opinion is to give the milky or watered-down version of the Gospel. Also, I was watching another television preacher one day, and at the end of his show he made a comment about how he received a check from Joel Osteen. He called Joel and asked him why he had sent him a check. Joel said that at his church he tells everyone to fill out a card with their tithe if another preacher or ministry has touched their life to let him know and to put how much of their tithe they want Joel to send to them. The preacher went on to comment on what a nice fat check he had received from Joel Osteen Ministries! Who knew? lol One more thing, Christians live by faith not by law. As a Christian I now know that I will never appear perfect to other people, but I thank God I don’t have to. God sees me through the blood of Christ! God is so awesome! Thank you for taking time to read my comments. God bless you all!

198. Starla July 24, 2008 8:09 pm

     I would like to invite anyone to send your prayer requests to New Christian Ministries, PO Box 25, Marbury, AL 36051. Below is the first paper I wrote after receiving Christ as my Lord and Savior:

     FEARS OF BECOMING A CHRISTIAN!

     Being a “new” Christian, I know all too well about fear. I only fear not pleasing God now. God knows everything I have done and everything I am going to do and he has already forgiven me for it all with the blood of Christ. John 3:16 Here is a list of the fears I had:

     o Afraid of giving up things I enjoy doing.
     o Afraid of committing to going to church.
     o Afraid of praying.
     o Afraid of being baptized in front of everyone.
     o Afraid of being asked to testify to other people.
     o I don’t understand the Bible.
     o I don’t want to go on missions if I did have the time.
     o Afraid of not sticking with it like everything else I’ve started.
     o Tithing—I’m broke and don’t need another bill.
     o I don’t want people coming to my house all the time to preach to me.
     o I don’t want to be criticized by myself or others for being a hypocrite.
     o I don’t know how to put God first and don’t know that I would want to if I did know.

     These are very legitimate fears that I had before receiving my free gift from God. What is that? Jesus Christ—Thank you God. You do not have to do anything but invite Him in. That pounding in your heart is Jesus knocking. If you are already a Christian, I think you can still feel him knocking on everyone else’s heart. Revelation 3:20

     I originally intended to add a prayer for you to say, but I am not going to because if you are like me it wouldn’t help anyway. I had read the same prayer over and over without meaning. Jesus came into my heart when I repeated a prayer after someone on television. Romans 10:9-10

     I am not perfect by any means and I will always make mistakes. I am a work in progress and always will be. I am not proud to be a Christian—I am grateful! John 14:6

     NO FEAR:
      I have not given up anything I enjoy.
      I can hardly wait to get to go back to church.
      I talk with God daily.
      I want everyone to come to my baptism on March 16.
      I am so anxious to testify to anyone who will listen.
      I can’t get enough of the Bible.
      I can hardly wait to go on my first mission next week.
      The thought of losing this relationship with God makes me nauseated.
      I want to give everything I can.
      I actually enjoy company now and the chance to talk about God.
      God loves me; who cares what anybody else thinks.
      If it were not for God, I would not have anybody or anything.

     May God bless you and your life in every way imaginable? What do you have to lose? You have eternity to gain! Romans 6:23

     If you enjoyed this and would like to read more, please let me know! Thanks and God bless you!

199. Joel July 24, 2008 11:28 pm

     Thank you for your contributions Starla. I appreciate your two well-thought out comments.

200. Tim July 26, 2008 9:45 am

     I agree with you totally. I believe he and many others have absolutely corrupted God’s message. Pastors are becoming great lawyers, making the Bible say what they want it to. It doesn’t work that way. We must learn to follow God not vice-versa. Watched your video of Joel preaching. Be careful! You took a few verses out of context also. This is not better than the others. Thanks for exposing the false prophet.

201. Vernisa M Donaldson July 27, 2008 6:07 am

     This is complete and utter BS!!!

     I’m an atheist, but I often watch Joel Osteen’s services on Sunday evenings with my ill, but very religious grandmother. He talks about God and Jesus a lot. In fact, I have never heard him speak of anything OTHER than that in ALL the years I’ve been watching him with my grandma. Maybe you should actually WATCH some of his services BEFORE spouting off at the mouth about things which you clearly know nothing about.

     You might not like the way he operates, but that’s no reason to LIE!!!

202. Todd July 27, 2008 8:22 am

     I think you are all sad and lonely losers. You put forth a believe that is impossible as if it were fact. You all seek to get moeny from the weak instaed of working for your dollars like the rest of us. You should all be jailed for fraud.

     It is not necessary to debate many aspects of religion to answer the ultimate question, “Does god exist?” Some religions are based on the idea that their scriptures are the revelation of a specific god, but unless it can be verified that an actual god was involved in scripture creation, the respective religion is solely a human invention. To reduce the issue one step further, ask what accounts or stories in scripture could not have been known or created by people. Asking these fundamental questions simplifies what is normally an endless complex debate.

     There are only two types of information in religious scripture that could indicate a creator god was the scripture source. This would be information that could not be obtained solely by humans at the time the original scriptures were written. All other accounts, facts, and stories are things people are capable of creating. The two types of information that only a god could have revealed are:

     Specific detailed information about prehistoric earth and life that is now confirmed by geology and paleontology. If the original scriptures had this Information, then that would be strong evidence that it came from an all-knowing creator that knew prehistoric conditions.
     Accurate detailed prophecies about current, or historical events that are well documented. If these predictions were in original scripture versions, they would be evidence that a god revealed them to the authors. Specific dates, places, and names are the necessary detail.

     Scripture verse that does not qualify as verification:

     Claims of prophecies and scientific facts in scripture that don’t have enough detail to permit verification. Broad general statements are not useful.
     Verse that results in long debates about who said what and when. If the message is not clear and simple it is not reliable.
     Where creative interpretation is necessary to match the prophecy with any current event or knowledge. Many interpretations invalidate a prophecy or miracle account.
     An account of prophecy fulfillment written after the event occurred is not a prophecy.
     A prophecy date that has not arrived (future dated) is not a valid prophecy.
     Simple testimony about miracles are not evidence of divine revelation because people are capable of creating stories of miracles.
     Scripture verse that supports other verse is not verification.
     Accounts of miracles that are not corroborated by written history from objective eye witnesses who were not involved in the religion.
     A prophecy predicting some action by a person or culture is a self-fulfilling prophecies because the actions of believers are influenced by the prophecy. These events are caused or influenced by no force other than the participants belief.

     If nothing in the scripture of a religion is the revelation of a god, then all other arguments for existence of god are not arguments for that religion’s god. These non-scripture arguments include first cause, cosmological, ontological, etc. These other arguments are for the existence of a generic god. They may make interesting philosophical discussions, but do not point to the specific god of any religion. For example: Even if there was a valid and true first cause argument for existence of a god, it would not point to the Christian or Muslim god. Only the scriptures of those religions identify a specific god. Why would a Christian or Muslim use anything but scripture in a debate or discussion?

     This reduces the complex debate to a single issue. Is there concrete evidence that any scripture is the revelation of a god? If not, then do we have anything but philosophical arguments for the existence of a generic god?

203. maloney seamus July 27, 2008 10:02 am

     just a word and a question also,
     there is a statement in the bible which reads,seek ye first the kingdom of god and after this all these things will be added on to you. now joel seems to have proven that after becoming a fisher of men,where his focus is to get people to believe in faith,so lord please help the very little faith i have.it is a free gift from god through jesus to know the holy spirit ,and even though i can say i know the holy spirit and welcome its presence, i also am a very weak person when it comes to personal ills,however the whole point im making is this,i called on jesus many times and got my requests ,i cant guarantee anything because i cant tell jesus what to do,i request his fathers favour for me by way of praying and talking to him,now one question my friend is this,the questions asked of joel have to do with some of scripture and his judging a different religion,jesus said we are not all of the one flock.
     now finally i have a request for my sake that is for my health sake
     if you are well up on scripture please therefore ask in your prayers for relief for me in a stressful situation which is overpowering me and if you like you can ask of god through jesus by spreading my request to others in the name of jesus,and thanks seamus

204. Tim Tuttle July 28, 2008 12:31 pm

     It is evident that you have not listened to enough of Joel’s sermons or read any of his books or daily devotionals. He and his family love Jesus and apply his teachings daily.

     I urge you to take the time to investigate the subject you discuss before talking about it. It makes you seem as if you were the liar.

     Just because his methodology is different from mainstream Evangelicals does not mean his is not briging people to Christ. He is using his strengths to serve the Lord. He is thinking out side the box.

     I will defend Joel on his comments with Larry King. I grew up in a southern babtist church. I know all about sin and condimnation. Joel appeals to me because he concentrates on spiratual and mental growth instead of constantly reminding people about sin and condimnation. It is not his place to place judgement on people as Larry King tried to jet him to do. God will do that on judgement day.

205. Angel July 28, 2008 4:20 pm

     I think that the time you spent on reciting the bible and writing so many words on how bad Joel Osteen is, you could have helped or maybe even have saved a fellow drug addict in the neighborhood or a pregnant teen. (DONE SOMETHING GOOD WITH YOUR TIME) Joel Osteen isn’t hurting you or your neighbor by not using the word “Jesus” or “God” in every sentence that is spoken. I think we all should look at ourselves a little harder and ask “why am I so angry?” Not everyone interprets nor believes in the same thing. I don’t care if you are a Christian, a Jew or a Muslim. We all are different and don’t have a carbon copy brain that tells us how and what to think and feel. We choose to live in this great country because we do have freedom of religion and freedom of speech and other freedoms that make Joel’s words wonderful to a huge percentage of this country. If his words were so wrong, then why does he have such a huge following? Many people out there could use a little of Joel Osteen. Obviously you and others that think he is part of a “”big scam”" have nothing better to do than to raise questions on how people should be able to believe and how to have a close relationship with God. THAT IS NOT BEING A GOOD CHRISTIAN! ARE YOU REALLY A CHRISTIAN??

206. Joel July 28, 2008 4:29 pm

     Angel, if you actually read my post you would see that I am not a Christian. Also, having followers doesn’t make you right. Jim Jones had followers. Hitler had followers. Joel Osteen has followers. Lol

207. The Truth July 29, 2008 6:19 am

     All you fake Christians are just plan jealous. You know nothing about God. All you know is the hate that you are!!!

208. Fran July 29, 2008 7:48 am

     One night I couldn’t sleep and turned on the television. My youngest brother who lived in Texas had died unexpectedly. I was home from the funeral but missing my brother badly. We had many good times camping together and he was gone forever.

     There was Joel Osteen on television talking from Texas and immediately something clicked. I found the inspiration and uplift I needed at that moment to go on. I fell back asleep after Joel’s speech knowing that God was in charge and I had the strength to go on.

     At one time I did not like Joel Osteen either, like some of the people who write messages on this website. I didn’t have any reason, I didn’t need him and I never gave him a chance. But something happened that night when I turned on the television during his message and I now believe Joel is blessed to be able to deliver messages of hope that God wants people to hear. If you continue to disparage Joel’s remarks, you simply have not needed God. When you do, perhaps you will have a tv remote close by and who knows what might happen to you and for you?

209. Fran July 29, 2008 7:59 am

     Joel just wants you to be the best person you can be. I need help to do that. He is not a depressive type personality who spends his time trying to direct you away from something that is good for you. He speaks a lot of principles that are found in Psycho Cybernetics. They worked for me when I wanted to be a cheerleader in high school 50 years ago. The principles in Psycho Cybernetics say that if you want to do better in golf (or whatever) and can’t get on the golf course to practice, you can do it in your head. Imagine yourself making the perfect swing enough times and when you actually get on the course, your swing will have improved. Joel does not shove religious principles down your throat. He slips them in there and when he does, they fit into what he is talking about. For some people the Bible does not make sense. When Joel talks it, it does.

210. JC July 29, 2008 9:25 am

     It’s quite obvious the devil’s in the details, as well as your so called heart, or whatever is keeeping you alive. You apparently have never listened to Joel Osteen, all of his messages are about God. And you don’t have to go to school to be a preacher,when God calls you, you preach from the heart, the Bilble, and the Holy Spririt will guide you. this is the most positive man who has ever graced our presence on the altar. your comments about him as well as your beliefs are purely from satan and no where else. How you can improve your website, is to recant your lies, confess your sins, and beg God to forgive you for such slander! How dare you! Why do want to attack someone who has so much love for God and his fellow human beings? Have you read his book? It’s all about God and the heritage that we need to claim that God wants us to have, the peace and self esteem we can have, IF we put God first in our lives. As far as the money, it takes a lot, common sense should tell you to keep the broadcast going, and a congregation that size needs a staff, and keeping the lights on is probably more money than you’ll ever see in your life time, with your attitude. I’ll pray for you, God knows you need it!

     Sincerely,

     Your new guardian angel

211. brettbkr July 29, 2008 10:54 am

     We can’t speak for Joel, however the message I hear is the ‘Science’ of religion – a science of spiritual pshchology. It’s a beautiful and true thought to realize that every man stands in the shadow of a mighty Mind, a pure Intelligience and a Divine givingness. “In Him we live, and move, and have our being.” (Acts 17:28)
     God doesn’t want us to suffer or to live in want and poverty- he wants a life of abundance for all. The will of God is always Good. Our experiences are in our consciousness, and our consciousness is an individualized part within the Devine Consciousness – therefore, change the consciousness and the false condition will disappear. (in line of our understanding of the Law.) Jesus became the Christ through his understanding of the Law – like no other – methinks. I believe that’s the message Jesus was trying to get through to us & We Can Become- each human is really Divine. “God if thou seest God, dust if thou seest dust.”
     But I’m bugged- he’ll never get a dime from me till I know. If Joel understands – he knows that he cannot outgive God – So I’ll ask Joel; How much have you(much given)given back?
     Regards to ALL & Keep the Faith!

212. J July 29, 2008 5:57 pm

     I think brett’s comment is exactly why we have been saying that Osteen’s preaching is misleading. Believing you can become Divine or a part of the Divine puts you in a completely different religion than Christianity.

213. Mr. Onomatopoeia July 30, 2008 7:27 am

     “Believing you can become Divine or a part of the Divine puts you in a completely different religion than Christianity.”

     Doesn’t it put you in the LDS?
     They claim to be Christians – I think.

     Where are those golden plates anyways?

214. brettbkr July 30, 2008 9:15 am

     “In Him we live, and move, and have our being.” (Acts 17:28)
     -that’s all. Nothing more – Nothing less That’s not saying you may become Him.

215. nimfa July 31, 2008 1:34 am

     Brethren, Pls consider these passages

     Matthew 7:1
     [ Judging Others ] ” [Luke 6:37, 41; Rom 14:10, 13] Do not judge so that you will not be judged.

     Luke 6:37
     ” [Matt 7:1-5] Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; [Matt 6:14; Luke 23:16; Acts 3:13] pardon, and you will be pardoned.

     2 Chronicles 19:6
     He said to the judges, “Consider what you are doing, for [Lev 19:15; Deut 1:17] you do not judge for man but for the LORD who is with you when you render judgment.

     We cannot see others heart and only God does.

     Matthew 12:33
     Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit.

216. nimfa napier July 31, 2008 1:40 am

     Luke 6:37
     And judge not, and ye shall not be judged: and condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: release, and ye shall be released:

     1 Corinthians 11:31
     But if we discerned ourselves, we should not be judged.

     Proverbs 12:14
     A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth; And the doings of a man’s hands shall be rendered unto him.

     Jeremiah 17:10
     I, Jehovah, search the mind, I try the heart, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.

     Jeremiah 32:19
     great in counsel, and mighty in work; whose eyes are open upon all the ways of the sons of men, to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings:

217. rhnea July 31, 2008 6:52 am

     thats strange! i have joel osteens book right here. in his book he speaks of GOD and the scripture from the bible all threw out it! did you even read or pick up a book before writing your story! your misleading people and lieing about a man who has a heart filled with the lord. who are you to doubt his intentions? who died and made you his judge and jury? who are you to say he is a false leader? you are the kind of people that keep the good chritians down. somebody has to be a hater…tag your it!

218. Jules July 31, 2008 9:02 am

     Joel is a CHRISTIAN, and who are you to judge? We all will be judged in the end. And he does talk of GOD in his sermons, I watch almost every Sunday am. GOD has prospered him to do HIS work, what do you not understand about that? He has inspired me in allot of ways on how to be positive, be the head not the tail and that GOD does want us all to prosper and how it gets done is through your faith and belief in HIM (GOD), not a man, but you have to not just sit on your fanny and expect things to happen get up and start doing what PLEASES GOD and THE POWER OF PRAYER IS AWESOME!!!!! Joel just helps you get there with his preaching and everyday life. If you really knew GOD,JESUS you would understand it all. LEAVE THE MAN ALONE, he is doing GOD’S work. AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

219. lisa ehret July 31, 2008 3:15 pm

     WHO CARES IF HE TALKS ABOUT GOD….which he does in his sermons…because i watch…he’s a great motivational speaker and he kind of parallels the book THE SECRET…which every a-hole is raving about and Joel never asks for donations when he is preaching on Sunday ..they might try to sell you his new book or whatever but you have a brain use it..or are we all to be little sheep..follow and not think..so what if he’s making money at least he’s not hurting the American people for it..like our big oil industries and all the scum in government! Smart people take what they can use and the rest of it, well you know where it can go.

220. Thomas Proko August 1, 2008 8:10 am

     I was brought up in the “60s”. At least that is when I turned 12 which is the point of referece because your personality locks in then.

     So my reference point is one of crisis, demonstration, old rules being challenged, women’s rights, power to the people, etc.

     I was also brought up Catholic. And even the church went from Vatican 1 to Vatican 2. Preists had to say mass in english and no longer in latin. The communion rail was removed. The preists had to now face the audience. Confession was renamed to reconciliation.

     There have be many nay-sayers and dark people in my life who I did not promptly usher out the door, because they were familiar and consequently were normal to me.

     I have learned that we are what we think. I chose to think positively. I chose to have optimists around me. I believe in the good in people. I get to chose and have these beliefs because I paid for it with my blood and sweat and I have the scars to prove it. So what.

     I like Joel. I want more people like Joel in my life. And I continue to minimize the negatives around me on a daily basis.

     My God/Universe/Creation-conciousness is good and happy and enjoys life. That is the godly being that I want to emmulate.

     Joel gets my vote.

221. ALI August 1, 2008 4:21 pm

     I think people are craving God and good in their lives. I believe Joel Osteen is speaking a positive and encouraging message in hopes of bringing out the best in people. I also strongly believe that God is all of our biggest cheerleader and Joel taps into this. His method of teaching about God is not the traditional way. I have ready both of his books, have watched numberous sermons, done the journal and he does reference scripture and uses many human examples to support his points.

     It honestly upsets me a little that so many people would be so worked up about someone who is doing a lot of wonderful things. I am not saying that his methods of spreading the Word are normal, but maybe that is God’s way of bringing people to Him in a society that is so apprehensive and judgemental about religion in general.

     When it boils down to it…it is our responsibility to know, establish and develop our relationship with God and learn more about him through the Bible, etc. I think Joel teaches God’s message and is doing wonderful things to raise standards that people have for themselves by teaching about God’s love for them.

222. Brian August 2, 2008 10:13 am

     The author of this page, seems a bit self centered and egocentric; not to mention hypacritical; I would not have minded reading his articles on Joel, even though I donot know either one, however ‘Gross’ goes on statingb “It’s just his bland and boring advice on how to live a happy life” it seems if gross wants to be a movie critic, or TV critic, he should hold retorical and slow 6th grade comments until the end of his thought, a conclusion, and state facts before giving his opinons, because we all know what an opinion is like. (Excuse the gramatical errors, but if you must point them out feel free )

223. Crystal August 3, 2008 1:59 pm

     I am not sure what to think!

224. Kevin Wallace August 5, 2008 1:25 pm

     You know Jesus wasn’t accepted for his stance of love, peace, kindness, forgiveness, and compassion for all. We actually killed him for such craziness. So why should Joel Osteen. I suppose that good in the world will be attacked and tried by even the ones that claim that they preach and live Jesus. Sad that he has improved so many lives and has helped them become better Christians that some feel impelled to pull him down. Just because someone doesn’t believe exactly like you does not mean that he is wrong of bad or a sinner or a fake. He is real with real conviction and he lives that conviction. I am sure you do the same for you are a good person trying your best to inform others how they ought to live. Well so is he. You disagree with him. He disagrees with you. I disagree with you. I am sure you have millions who agree with you. The point is that I am not attacking or tearing down good or being violent or angry or destructive. You can not change any ones mind by force or slavery by flogging them when they don’t believe the way you do. You can as Saul did before he became a Christian. Jesus NEVER taught violence. He actually humbled himself and let evil win. He knew that to win, one must give up and let go. You or I have no control over anything but what we want to be withing ourselves. The only thing we can do is love and be happy and try to instruct humans to a higher enlightenment. Try this if you really want to change people to the way you believe. I love you for you are a part of me as we all are a part of one big whole. God created us all and we are a family. Try and build up your family and not tear it down for if you do you have to ask yourself what side exactly are you own???

225. millie August 6, 2008 9:34 am

     we are responsible for our own actions. I, personally, am not here to judge, that’s God’s job. IF, IF, IF Joel is wrong, God will handle him on his merit. It’s upto God to say, you’ve been a bad boy or to say, ‘my faithful servant’. sometimes you have to preach the word without actually peaching. I tell people he’s a great motivational speaker and they should listen to him sometime. I can’t see what’s in Joel’s heart. I can only worry what’s in mine as I will be judged for that. God be with you and I hope and pray that you are watching over your own heart. but, thank you for sharing your insight and your opinion, cause it does matter.

226. millie August 6, 2008 9:40 am

     i went to his site and tickets for his sermon is $15/seat. no $360. but, when someone needs to hear the word of God, there are many that will pay hundres even thousands. God’s word is priceless and He will provide the finances for you to hear what you need to hear.

227. Marg August 6, 2008 1:20 pm

     Millie #226

     You are wrong.
     http://www.ticketliquidator.com/tix/Tickets.aspx?evtid=872507
     check this link out. $44 – $107 for a seat.
     So if I want to hear the “word of God” it will cost me and my 2 girls $144 minimum. Does he charge a parking fee too? You defenders of Joel call it “judgement”. I call it disernment. No wonder people make fun of Christians, buying into this nonsense.

228. Lauren August 6, 2008 3:24 pm

     I am a Christian and believe that God is God and uses whomever He like – the saved and unsaved. It is not for me to say if a person is Christian or not. But the Bible is clear when it says, in

     I John 4:1, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Believers should test the spirits behind a person’s action to see if the action brings glory to God.

     Yes we have to pray and consult God first. But in order to test the spirit we have to ask questions and stop being ignorant because somebody is nice. I’m going to quote something I read and supports what I am staying, using scripture:

     “What makes judging right or wrong depends on the spirit, motive and attitude in which judging is being done. So, the conclusion is that Christians should judge the actions of other people, but Christians should not make conclusions about the degree of punishment that a person will receive from God. The only conclusion that a Christian can accurately make is that if a person does not accept God’s plan of salvation, that person will be separated from God throughout all eternity, because this is what the Bible tells us (see Revelation 20:11-15).”

229. Joe Winter August 6, 2008 4:12 pm

     Awesome, I am from Houston and know alloubot the Osteens scam !!

230. Dan August 6, 2008 6:55 pm

     As a christian Im hearing this for the first time u have to pay to attend a sermon. thats ridiculous. ok $10 $20 dollars fine $ whats that $360 man there r people working hard to make that money for week here in USA. I myself im jobless. So if i want to attend sermon will i be stopped getting in to hear the sermon. Sorry my fellow christians. Im hurt to hear this. I heard few of his seminars. He is a good preacher.
     Hey mille, it looks like ur rich person. Tell me one think sincerely have u ever helped a person in need? Y dont u go n help people in 3rd world countries. Have u ever seen those countries. people dying without food forget abt shelter n clothes. Ur rite Gods word is priceless but u cant put a price tag. God will accept even if u give 1 cent if only u give it whole heartedly. Help those who r in need n ull b a blessed person. Im not trying to preach someone. Cause i have seen people in India without basic ammenities still they pull their life day after day n their faces look happy. All the best mille.

231. Hope in the sky August 6, 2008 11:56 pm

     Wow…I have never given this person Osteen a single penny …yet I sincerely have been touched by his spirit on yes…tv. I have also seen some seriously mean and rough characters who also have felt the same when they have taken just a moment of their time to hear his thoughts.

     You know its so funny to me how all of you people want to judge. Geez there is so much damn garbage on television right now…and just when you get some nice rich guy who has support and a following you want to knock him down..because he is given money. Because people want to give him their money is really their perogrative. If people want to support him for good loving thoughts and words…well …its way better then supporting the movie stars in the movie “SAW”.

     A lot of rich athletes and ugly movie stars who are outright trashy are also scamming you and your children. They rob you blind of your hope and keep you enlightened with sick perveted thoughts..yet this is all so okay with you?

     What a joke! Frankly it appears to me that it doesnt matter what you do in this country good or bad…it’s a scam.

     The truth is..its people like you who are a scam. Jealous..and trying to cause trouble. I am sure your out there making a big difference in peoples lives..inspiring them to have hope…really helping the sick, the poor, the sad and lost folks…yup…I am really sure that you are.

     Go get a real life…start with the man in the mirror..your a seriously sad person..whoever started this stupid website.

232. Hope in the sky August 7, 2008 12:03 am

     Folks it really is all so simple…let God be the judge..not you…as you are NOT God. We all know what is right or wrong..its not hard to know. You have a choice. Ask yourself..is this website right? This whole thing is so hypocritical…really.

233. Hope in the sky August 7, 2008 12:13 am

     Oh by the way..most of you are just so ignorant. Really now… people freak out over the cost of a stamp at .42cents..when the post office is bringing your letter all the way across the country.

     Your complaining about the cost of his seats? Have you seen the cost of going to a counselor on an hourly rate? GEEZ people…you can always watch him on tv for FREE.. you don’t have to pay a dime. If you choose to go..I am sure no one is handcuffing you and forcing you.

     Whats the price for feeling happy, enlightened, hopeful and sincere joy?
     Really, what would you pay if you could find that in your life? Whats so wrong with this guy helping you with that? Have you ever needed to see a counselor? Read a book? Go on a vacation? Buy a new outfit? Gee whiz…once again ..ignorance is bliss. Listen to yourselves.

234. erica August 7, 2008 3:23 am

     Have you ever been to Lakewood? Because if you had, you would know that there’s more to Pastor Joel’s ministry. He teaches about hope in God, leads people to seek God and does teach that Jesus Christ is the only way to the Father. At the end of every service, invitations to follow Christ are made. Then, believers are DISCIPLED. Do you know what that means? It means that after you believe and confess Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you LEARN how to be more like Him. Furthermore, you don’t have to go to seminary to be a pastor. God used Moses to lead his people, and Moses stuttered. God used a tax collector in Matthew. Paul was a murderer of Christians. God is using Joel Osteen to reach people who need hope. Be careful to talk illy of the anointed of God…you would be wise to pray for him and the ministry God has given him, rather than be concerned with bashing him. God has the final say. Trust Him to bring everything to light, and if you don’t know, don’t assume. One last thing, how many people have you helped lately? How many people know Jesus because of your ministry? I pray many…be thankful that God has sent out a laborer in Joel to reap God’s harvest.

235. going to heaven August 7, 2008 4:11 am

     You are very ignorant and should know what you are talking about before you post it. Your goin to HELL

236. going to heaven August 7, 2008 4:17 am

     Joel is a man of God and you are a HATER. Don’t be mad because he’s blessed. If you stop wasting time bashing good people maybe you could learn something about GOD, build a relationship with GOD and receive your own blessings.

     HATER

237. Chris August 7, 2008 10:47 am

     >>Please find me a single megachurch pastor who is NOT a scam-running, meth-eating, prostitute-abusing criminal. Anyone?

     Thomas S. Monson.
     President,
     The Church of Jesus Christ
     of Latter-Day Saints.

238. Chris August 7, 2008 10:53 am

     Also, there is no paid ministry in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). All members and leaders volunteer in their callings. My current bishop (pastor) is in software development. The one before him was an attorney. The one before him was an accountant, and before him, a dentist. All tithing funds go to building churches and quiet worldwide humanitarian efforts.

239. Joel August 7, 2008 10:55 am

     I really like to hear that the LDS’s pastors don’t take money from their congregations. Christian churches should be the same way. It’s unfortunate corrupt pastors like Joel Osteen insist upon taking millions.

240. Flo Shannon August 7, 2008 11:06 am

     Nothing CNN does surprises me. Leave it to CNN to attack a Christian person/ministry. I think there was probably an argument involving the stewardess on the airline but for the Brown lady to suggest she has hemmoroids from an elbow in the breast is absurd!! All this lady is looking for is MONEY!!!! Then she can retire and live happily ever after. I believe Joel Osteen is sincere and for your info the seats are $15.00 a seat but this includes fees for the ticket people, etc. This is why America is in such dire straits now. People fighting for money and any other illegal thing. Just remember the end is near so you had better get yourselves ready to be judged by a good and faithful God.

241. Flo Shannon August 7, 2008 11:08 am

     Who on earth came up with $360 tickets to see Joel Osteen. For your information they are $15.00 or less. Get your story straight before you spread it on. CNN you strike again with dirty deeds. I expect nothing less from you!!!!

242. june August 7, 2008 12:36 pm

     Throughout the Bible we are warned of false teachers, false prophets. That they would be so close to the truth that if it were possible even the elect would be deceived. Enter Joel Osteen. He preaches that if we think and do the right positive things that God will “breathe in your direction” and you will have prosperity. Osteen and those like him are anti-Christ. The scriptures say that judgment comes first to the church. Get ready, guys. The anti-Christ(s) have arrived.

     Mr. Osteen is extremely proficient at what he does. It has nothing to do with God’s promises, God’s plan for salvation, but with self promotion, with skewing the truth to what the public wants to hear.
     There was absolutely nothing politically correct about Christ, yet we see and hear His alleged followers doing their song and dance to avoid hurting anyone’s feelings. Run….don’t walk away from these people. They are Satan’s soldiers.

243. Tom August 7, 2008 5:47 pm

     The guy sure seems nice — but how is it you need the stadium sized church… Cant he preach outside somewhere like jesus did… Why is Victoria so worried about a stain and her first class seating??? How christian is that… Even if she only made a minor complaint and did not push anyone,,, it is enough to make you wonder about the inner people here… If they want to help then they should give away all they have to a worthy cause… Did not jesus say that in some book somewhere —-

     Something is not right here…

244. Jaroslav August 8, 2008 1:43 am

     Joel,

     Are you a pendejo or a pendejito? Tell me.

245. Norman August 8, 2008 5:58 am

     For a person who is not religious, you sure can preach, brother.

246. rick August 9, 2008 7:33 pm

     Can we say jealous people.

247. sue August 10, 2008 5:27 am

     you say he doesnt mention GOD but in the interview with Larry King he talks about God judging people. In his daily inspirations he talks about GOD. Get you facts straight. Why dont you pick on someone who isn’t helping people and the world!!!!!!!

248. Pamela August 10, 2008 6:44 am

     I think it is a sad day when people take valuble time from their life to write negative things like this! I watch Joel Osteen from time to time & find it to be very pleasing & uplifting. I find that he is trying to put some hope in what are sometimes hopeless lives. And, in every sermon I have ever watched, he does quote the Bible and talk about how great God is and what he does for us. I say if you do not approve of him or how he preaches, don’t watch him (obviously you do, or you wouldn’t know so much about him). And, we here on earth are not to judge that will be left up to God. If indeed Joel is not true, then he will have to face up to it when the time comes. There are thousands and thousands of people who watch him on television & go in person to see him every week so he must be doing something right! If he is helping people, isn’t he doing what God wants us all to do? Isn’t that working for God? We don’t know (and frankly, it isn’t any of our business) what Joel does with his money. I feel sure he does a lot of monetary good as well. I say leave him alone & let him do the work that God put him here to do.

249. David August 10, 2008 7:24 am

     WOW, After seeing Joel Olsten I understand why his church is so successful. I’ve never seen someone balance themselves so well, neither hot or cold, up or down, in or out.
     Too bad Jesus and his people didn’t get it! The message he and his followers taught was not popular and really stirred up the masses against them. In the end, Jesus was crucified and the rest all ended up in prison or dead. Talk about the wrong way to do things!
     I can tell Joel realizes this and is not out to make waves or cause trouble by teaching those unpopular messages. Joel makes you feel really good about yourself and secure in whatever you believe or do in life as long as it leads to success. The rock concert atmosphere, the cool ceiling, the whole works, that’s the way to draw them in. If only Jesus had known a better way to do things, he would have been much more accepted in his day. People don’t like hearing about the narrow way, the wide way is much easier and obviously much more popular. Keep up the good work!

     WOW!!!

250. Kelly August 10, 2008 10:06 am

     I believe That Joel Osteen is a great guy. He is bringing hope where there is none. You are talking and judging so quickly. why don’t you get up and do something about it, there is milion of people searching for someone to give them a word of hope, may be you are the one with the problem . it sounds to me that your are a person with o love or hope and before you judge someone take a good and deep look at yourself and tell God that you have done what God taught you and keep in mind you can’t fool God.

251. nayme August 10, 2008 10:11 am

     seriously… anybody who talks bad about him is being used by the enemy… the guy brings a positive message but just because he’s not trying to make people fanatics about the spiritual world everybody is trying to trhow stones… if God wasnt with him his church wouldn’t have grown so much… plus instead of waiting for the day he falls everybody should be praying so that he won’t fall… because God is his strenght and I believe that God will be by his side giving him strenght… watch him and pay attention to how many times he mentions the bible and he always says whatever he says and mentions that u cant’t do any of it without God…

252. Fred August 10, 2008 11:19 am

     Joel may be a great guy but that is certainly not the criteria needed to teach Gods word. Joel gives hope and promises that he is not able to fulfill. Joel promises the same things that Satan tried to tempt Jesus with. He does not help people in the way that they need. People need God and need to know the correct teachings of God. Joel does not teach Jesus or his message. Yes, Jesus taught love and hope and forgiveness. He also made clear that He came to do his Fathers work, not his own. All that He did was for his Father. Jesus taught some very tough teachings that are ignored today because they offend and require something more than blind faith.
     Who is Joel’s father? What message is he teaching? He teaches worldly prosperity, health and other great earthly rewards. The scriptures teach quite a different thing! God’s word teaches against the things that Joel and others try to proclaim as truth. As the years go by, Joel and others like Benny and Joyce continue to fill their bank accounts by giving false hope for wealth. It’s always “you need to plant a seed” yet Joel, Benny and others are the only ones receiving the financial rewards they promise to everyone else. Joel mentioned to Larry King that he is a pastor and he need not be trained, using the disciples as examples of untrained men in ministry. I would say the disciples received the best training and understanding of Gods word than any other men before or since. They had Jesus as their teacher. They taught and obeyed his teachings. Joel unfortunately does not.
     We as followers of God are called to test everything by the scriptures. We are commanded to test everything that these self proclaimed ministers of God say. If they fail the test, we are not to listen or follow. Read the bible and you will find that there is no way the message Joel proclaims can be followed.

253. cc August 10, 2008 12:26 pm

     whoever wrote this article should GET A LIFE! Go jump on cults that are evil or terrorist who cut Americans heads off. Get off a Christians back because I’m sure that no one forces anyone to follow this guy.

254. Bon August 10, 2008 1:06 pm

     Today’s Christians have been spiritually malnourished with a steady and unrelenting diet of “judge not, that ye be not judged. . .,” tolerant, inclusive “junk food” doctrine until they are completely void of any spiritual discernment. May I remind you in Matthew 7 where the popular “judge not, that ye be not judged. . .” mantra occurs contains the harshest warning in the Bible exposing false prophets and exercising personal spiritual discernment. The Lord Jesus in Matthew 7:21-23 provides the most enlightening and frightening warning found in all the scriptures. Many (not a few) people that openly call Jesus “Lord, Lord. . .” and many that “prophesy in thy name. . .” and “. . . cast out devils. . .” and in the name of Jesus Christ perform “many wonderful (not hateful, but nice, sweet) works. . .”— Jesus will utter “I NEVER knew you.” They were never saved. If they were ever saved—Jesus could not say, I NEVER knew you. Despite their “many wonderful works” in the name of Jesus, despite calling Him “Lord, Lord”—Jesus Christ will cast them into an eternal lake of fire, calling them “ye that work iniquity.”

     Matthew 7:13-23
     13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
     14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
     15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
     16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
     17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
     18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
     19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
     20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
     21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
     22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
     23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

     Matthew 7 (and there are many other scriptures) is an earth-shattering wake-up call for prayerful Bible discernment. If we, as Christians do not shine the exposing light of the Word of God upon preachers, Christians or anyone and everyone, how can we possibly obey the clear admonition of our Lord and Saviour in Matthew 7:15? How can we “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves”— if we do not “judge” who are the “false prophets”? How in the world can we even KNOW who are these “false prophets”? They appear as “sheep” or saved people, but they are “ravening wolves.” There is only one way—the unchangeable, perfect Word of God. There is a very serious and very deadly Christian belief perverting Christians that says, “I can’t judge them, I don’t know their heart.” The Lord Jesus Christ says in Matthew 15:19, “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.” What comes out the mouth – is in the heart.

255. Lauren August 10, 2008 2:57 pm

     “I can tell Joel realizes this and is not out to make waves or cause trouble by teaching those unpopular messages.Joel makes you feel really good about yourself and secure in whatever you believe or do in life as long as it leads to success. The rock concert atmosphere, the cool ceiling, the whole works, that’s the way to draw them in. If only Jesus had known a better way to do things, he would have been much more accepted in his day. People don’t like hearing about the narrow way, the wide way is much easier and obviously much more popular. Keep up the good work!”

     God never promised everything to be peaches and creams. By your very comments, I would not watch Joel Olsteen if this is what you are getting from him.There are many things wrong with this statement from David in the 200 section. I am not sure what religion you believe in, but you are obviously not worshiping the same God most of us are. You just committed blasphemy and made Joel Olsteen into a god in your eyes. Paul said it is better to suffer for this gospel than to appease man because Jesus paid it all for us. If he followed the Pharisees and Saducees, where would you be? Not idolizing Joel Olsteen. will, rather than pleasing man’s desires is wrong, then you just judged millions of Christians and what we believe in. If you say you are a Christian, then you would know that God said that once we take up this cross, it wont be an easy path to walk.

     WOW!!!

256. DeAnna August 10, 2008 2:58 pm

     From this day forward I will pray diligently every day that everything you say is BLASPHEMOUS regarding Joel Osteen. I will pray that Joel is not, nor will ever be into preaching just for the money.
     I truly feel he is trying his hardest to do/say the words Jesus wants him to say, and the way he lives.
     Finally we have a man (preacher) who does not scourge you for your sins! He leaves the judgeing to God on Judgement Day! I am human & I do not deny that I have sinned many, many times, but I ask God daily to forgive my sins, and the sins of others. Though I would rather not, I will even pray for God to forgive YOU for your sins!!
     Yes, you have a right to your own opinion even when it does not agree with other’s opinions, but you are so self-centered to believe your opinion is the only one that is right.
     Do you read the Bible? I do. I have read everything you speak of, but I also read in the Bible; “Love your neighbor as yourself”. Love is the most important concept of the Bible, I feel. Joel loves people and life–how could you, or anyone else, think he does not love God? He may be nervous about speaking out on national tv, and before such large crowds in the congregation about every person’s sins
     because he has built this image of love, happiness and kindness. Why change it?
     To sum it up; I see nothing wrong with Joel Osteen, but I read and hear many things wrong about you. Perhaps what drives you to speak out against Joel is…..Could it be the green-eyed monster called
     “jealousy”? Hmmmmmmmmmmm.

257. Gail August 10, 2008 9:21 pm

     I give Joel Osteen thumbs up for being an upstanding member of society, and being a definite model of how to live a well balanced life.

     I am agnostic, and when I flip through the channels and land on Joel Osteen, I make it a point to at least listen to this man speak for 10 minutes. Every single thing that comes out of this mans mouth is enlightening, up-lifting and most definitely encourages a more plausible out look on life. This man may not be your typical “bible thumper” but he makes more sense than any of the other yaywho’s blabbing about GOD and how to live your life.

     This man promotes the idea of living a productive, happy, healthy life and delivers this messages tastefully, and with the utmost CLASS.
     Like I said, I’m not religious, but by listening to this man for a couple minutes inspires me to live a well balanced healthy life. You don’t need a “Minister’s degree”/ “bible school” to deliver a sensable, meaningful message that works for people. Joel’s churchy message works for me, and I can’t stand you religious hypocrites.

258. STEVE August 11, 2008 9:09 am

     joel hasnt done anything wrong to you and has helped alot of people Rev.Al Sharpten and Jessy Jackson are the fakes get on them .

259. Shon August 11, 2008 4:56 pm

     I know that you may not agee with what he says but, you stated that you are not religious. So then what are you? And are you not judging yourself. I myself aspire to be christ-like ( that means reading the word and following its teachings). All I know is that if he is not doing what God wants him to do then he will take care of him. Here are a few verses that you should not just read but except them into your heart.
     Matt 7:1-5,1Coritians 13:4-8, Proverbs 1:10,33, 2:11, 3:5,12,30 and 34.
     Yes, should be aware of lambs in sheep clothing but,we should also pray for those who do not a relationship with God. (And I am not saying that Joel is that). God has a purpose for everyone but, it is up to us to accept that purpose,if we don’t then that is our choice.
     And isn’t that what life is all about.

260. Dee August 11, 2008 4:58 pm

     Just curious as to why any of you think you can judge another? If you are going to quote scripture, understand and believe in all of them. Do you think Christ died on the cross for you to place judgement on others just because you believe in Him? Do you hold yourself higher than any of your fellow men/women?

     I don’t know this pastor and found this sight by accident. I have heard him preach and know his tickets at arena’s are only $15.

     For you that are spreading your destruction. I’ll be praying for you because you need to take the LOG out of your own eye before prying a splinter out of someone elses. Shame on you. Why do you think people lose hope in Christians? Maybe a good long look in the mirror will do you some good.

261. Andrea August 11, 2008 9:00 pm

     I can’t believe what I just read! You have managed to turn a great person into a horrible one. Have you ever stopped to think that God loves us so much that he wants BIG things for us? He gave Joel that money and that television show so that he could spread his word to millions of people! You said that Joel doesn’t mention God in his sermons, but you must have not sat through one because that is incorrect. I feel sorry for you that you have managed to find such hatred in such a pure message. Not once in his broadcast does he ask for money, but it does say in the bible that we should tithe our money because God provides for us and we give back so that we can reach others. You should do some more research on what the bible says about being blessed, God actually wants people to be wealthy not poor. It’s so sad that someone would say these things, but we both know who is truly responsible for instilling these thoughts in your head.

262. Ang. August 12, 2008 2:48 am

     Joel’s(blog)I, see you failed to answer Seans message. He was talking about what a true false teacher is in the Bible. as I see it this was very intelligent message that you whished not to respond.

263. Jean August 12, 2008 7:37 am

     I wonder how many of the folks that have posted to this site have personally listened to Pastor Olsten’s messages on Sunday? Or perhaps you simply resent his success and his demeanor. I have listened to his sermons, been to his website and here’s what I’ve found.

     He preaches ‘the good news’ just as Christ did. Christ did not go around preaching fire and brimstone. He preached hope and encouragement and love. When appropriate he also told people how to ensure an eternity with God.

     At the end of every one of Joel’s sermons he leads a ’sinner’s prayer’ that allows people to confess their sin and accept Jesus as master and Savior.

     I’ve been a ‘born again’ Christian for 20 years. I’ve attended many, many Bible studies and lead many more. Nothing that I’ve heard from Pastor Olsteen contradicts or refutes the Word of God.

     After going thru a lot of growth as a Christian I can tell you one thing. No one, but no one, knows the true heart of a man but God. I’ve heard many, many, men and women profess Christ and profess to be ‘Christians’. They spoke the right words, they put on the right show, they told many people that without Christ they won’t see Heaven, but at the end of the day it meant nothing. The life that they led actually turned people away from Christ.

     I fear that many of you are like those who criticized the message of Christ in His day. You don’t really want to hear the Gospel (translated meaning Good News!) of Christ. You want to hear that everyone but you will never see Heaven.

     I never hear Pastor Olsteen pretending to be God…I do see that in the words of many who’ve posted to this site.

     God Bless,

     Jean

264. JC August 12, 2008 1:36 pm

     I’m not sure how old this post is. It’s very well written and intelligent. It also comes off as very objective. Great job. I used to watch Osteen occasionally but you are exactly right.

265. lisa August 12, 2008 3:26 pm

     ok…um u didnt hear anything joel said…he WAS talking about God…ur dum and need to acually LISTEN before you start judging him. dnt get me wrong, i think that there is a scam somewhere with joel, but the way you are going with this web page is stupid…sry, but get the CORRECT facts, LISTEN to his sermons, THEN say what you want to say. otherwise you’ll look like an idiot.

266. Margo August 12, 2008 4:24 pm

     Many of us look forward to his inevitable fall… Such a skank!

267. Sybil August 12, 2008 5:09 pm

     May the Lord have mercy on you.You should be afraid to do the things you’re doing just for money. The Lord will deal with you just you wait and see.

268. Anand Singh August 12, 2008 7:21 pm

     JOEL OSTEEN’S MASSAGE THERAPY HELPS!

     Yes, it helps those like him who does not want to commit their life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ!
     Yes, it’s more of a massage that Joel Osteen doles out every week than a message from the word of God!

     I wonder how people can be so blinded. There are so many secular writers who can tell you how to live a good life. Joel’s massage is no different

269. Miranjan Shah August 12, 2008 7:28 pm

     See what God says about priests duty:

     Mal 2:7 “For the lips of a priest ought to preserve knowledge, and from his mouth men should seek instruction—because he is the messenger of the Lord Almighty.

     Mal 2:8 But you have turned from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble; you have violated the covenant with Levi,” says the Lord Almighty.

     Mal 2:9 “So I have caused you to be despised and humiliated before all the people, because you have not followed my ways but have shown partiality in matters of the law.”

270. Tanya August 12, 2008 7:39 pm

     Jeans’ post is very interesting. Perhaps missed out in listening to Larry King Live where Joel could not defend his faith. WHAT A TRAGEDY!

     This is a classic example for Jesus’s famous statement:

     Luke 12:8 says,” “I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God.”

     Perhaps John the baptist and Apostle Paul also did not go around preaching fire and brimstone!

271. Karpov August 12, 2008 7:44 pm

     THIS IS FOR SINCERELY DECIEVED CHRISTIANS LIKE Jean. Read On…..

     Developing Spiritual Discernment
     By Charles F. Stanley

     A friend once told me about taking her niece to see a live theatrical performance of Peter Pan. The little girl leaned over to her aunt during one part of the play and said, “Are those real Indians?”

     read the rest here:
     http://www.intouch.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=dhKHIXPKIuE&b=2288445&content_id=%7B75DE8DB7-5423-4A50-B2D9-734B255186A9%7D&notoc=1

272. Shauna August 12, 2008 7:54 pm

     DANGERS OF FALSE TEACHING BY John MacArthur

     Scripture clearly affirms that God is truth, that God speaks truth, and that God cannot lie. Scripture also affirms that Satan is a liar and the father of lies. He is in the business of deceiving people. God reveals Himself as truth and Satan is revealed as its antithesis. That particular dichotomy pervades every area of the universe. There is conflict between the holy angels and unholy demons. There is conflict on earth between the truth of God and the lies of Satan…

     Read the rest here-
     http://www.biblebb.com/files/mac/sg55-9.htm

273. can't believe YOU August 13, 2008 7:58 am

     Stop being a synical hater filled with boardum trying to scrutinize a man (so much) less worthy of condemnation and find not only the bigger picture but somthing or someone else REALLY worthy of ridicule and questioning/debating on/of their character! I’m sure you could find a worthy subject, for instance O.J. Simpson trying to sell a book based on his murderous adventure!!! Or how about the FDA not knowing where the virus/contamination of vegitables actually came from until weeks later after hundreds became sick!!!! There are much more well deserved topics and issues in this world that are really affecting people not only physically but mentally and not to there knowledge or consent! Open your eyes a bit wider there ARE SO MANY MORE IMPORTANT THINGS OING ON IN THIS WORLD!!!!

274. fan August 13, 2008 4:06 pm

     have you ever heard the phrase “he who is without sin, cast the first stone”? the only person who ever walked the face of this earth that is/was sin free is Jesus Christ. so, yes, i watch joel osteen & i enjoy his sermons. he speaks openly about God & he is, in my opinion,a very knowledgable man of the word of God. since when is going to the seminary supposed to make you a bonified preacher? you don’t think you can worship/teach/learn about God in your own way? i have taught Sunday school on many occasions & i haven’t been to seminary- so you tell me? where there is more than one gathered in my name, there is fellowship. it doesn’t say that, if you have been to seminary & are sitting in the church, that is the only way you can possibly know what you are talking about??? so, i say to you “Doubting Joel”, when’s the last time you read the Bible,did any kind of religious fellowship in the name of the Lord in or out of a church? so again, let me remind you, he who is without sin,cast the first stone….think about it….

275. SUSAN August 14, 2008 5:42 am

     Am sorry thou but Joel is my hero, keep on keepin on man of GOd Sanbalat’s are there to fight your faith and to put you do but you have inspired me alot.God bless you great.

276. Bessy August 14, 2008 11:39 am

     You are an angry person! What is wrong with someone Enlightening people? What is wrong with someone walking away from a program feeling better than they did before? Nothing. Everything has a business aspect to it, Get Real. Whether it’s running a McDonald’s or a church. That has nothing to do with the Intention of the person behind the operation. And get your facts straight: I say Joel at one of his “A Nite of Hope” sermons, and I paid $30 for my ticket, not $360.

277. Isabella Swan August 14, 2008 5:13 pm

     whats the whole point of having a mega church if you never talk about god he might as well stick to talking writing best seller books

278. Anna DiPietro August 15, 2008 8:05 am

     I think people who are against Joel should think again. Jesus healed on the Sabbath and the pharisees said who does he think he is. The apostles said how can they heal in your name? You better read the good news again. Every person is called with a different message. Joel teaches a message for every day living using the Bible and the love of Christ. At the end of his message he asks people to become born again. He is not leading away from Christ but to Christ. Please think about the people who put Christ to death. Don’t judge what you do not understand like the Pharisees did. Remember The greatest of all is love.

279. ursula ansbach August 17, 2008 7:12 am

     Your jealousy is showing, sir! Have you nothing better to do than to slam a minsitry that’s helpful to millions.

     Joel does talk about God and the scriptues are quoted in every message he gives.

     You would be better not to judge but to follow Joe’s advice and leave judgment to God. That’s scriptural, too.

280. Yvette August 18, 2008 8:45 am

     Well the times i’ve watched him preach it was always with the word of the Lord so i don’t know where you are getting your information from and he does make it clear to have a relationship with Jesus. I think what is going on here is that everyone is so acustom to religion and that’s what i don’t get.Being a christian doesn not mean being religious. We are a lifestyle not a religion so we need to stop judging people. If indeed he is doing wrong then let God be the judge of that not us because reality is that we will all be judged. Aren’t we suppose to love one another even our own enemies??? so why attack him? aren’t people comming to the Lord because of this ministry??

281. Wow you sure are angry over nothing August 18, 2008 2:28 pm

     What is the problem with Joel Olsteen? He encourages his church to lead authentic christian lives. You obviously never have really listened to him because you would have seen many Biblical references to his message. Not every Christian needs to condemn sinners, in fact that is the worst way to be. Jesus loved everyone even sinners. Jesus was scandelous in that he would hang out with sinners and encourage them as well.

     Saying that he doesn’t know who is going to heaven is an honest answer. Joel Olsteen is not God, how would he know all of God’s designs? No person knows and anyone who says they do know is fooling themselves. Joel O says his gift is encouragement and not condemnation, that sounds fair to me. Why all the hostility? Is it because he is wealthy and you are not? Maybe if you were encouraging people instead of slandering them you would be wealthy too.

     My last point is to name a pastor of a mega-church who is not associated in a scandal, how about Rick Warren of Saddleback Church? You say Joel O is not associated with any scandal yet but you expect one. That is an empty accusation and really has no merit except that it shows how angry you are. And for what? Anyway I hope that you are not offended by my thoughts on your writing. Take care and God bless

282. michelle August 18, 2008 5:34 pm

     who ever did this page needs to get a bible and read it himself and then start talking crap. but like we all know u are just being used by the devil cuz thats what the devil wants to take u and everyone who dont believe in christ to HELL SO U BETTER BECAREFUL!!! u cant mess with GODS FOLLOWERS cuz weve got the VICTORY!!!!!!!!! SO PLEASE STOP WASTING TIME.

283. RACHEL GRAHAM August 19, 2008 9:24 am

     Maybe some of us just believe in God and want to hear about the positive things about believing in him and in yourself. I was raised a catholic, but I am not a good one (like most of all the catholics). I got tired to go to church and hear the same thing, I shall not do this, I shall not do that. Not to talk about all the things that for thousands of years the catholic church has been teaching us, so poor people stay poor and give everything they have to the church. For thousand of years they have been interpreting the bible to their advantage. But I do believe in God..my way? Maybe. But I am sure he wants me to be happy, believe in myself and accomplish everything I want…. So if I feel closer to him listening to Joel Olsteen, and his positives messages make me a better person… WHO CARES ABOUT WHAT OLSTEEN IS DOING WITH THE MONEY PEOPLE GIVE HIM BECAUSE THEY WANT? Maybe we should stop looking at other people´s life and focus on our own. If he is living in sin, don´t worry, God will take care of him…. At least he has accepted that he is not anybody to say who is going to heaven and who is not…. he doesn´t judge people, maybe that is why people like him. Why don`t we learned about that AND STOP JUDGING OTHERS?

284. Gertrude August 20, 2008 8:53 am

     First, off I think Joel Osteen is speaking according to the word when he says, he doesn’t condemn anyone. WE DON’t HAVE THAT RIGHT! God does! God can only look at a person heart and tell rather they can get to heaven. Who knows, some people in India, who are sincere in their beliefs will accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior and turn to Him

     So many people, who want to have a better understanding and can have a heart to serve the Lord thy God are turned away by “Holier Then Thy People,” telling them they are on their way to hell. Tell them about Jesus and how He is the only way to reach to eternal life and how they need to accept Him as Lord and Savior and let God do the judging. Joel Osteen may not be called by God to preach, but I believe very strongly if he isn’t, he will have to face the Lord Thy God. Let God judge that!

285. Elle August 20, 2008 4:37 pm

     We finally have someone who is preaching about evolving as humans and showing others christianity instead of judgmental canned answers and you’re complaining. The bible tells us not to judge others. It pretty much tells us to live our faith and let God judge. The majority of Christians in this nation do not follow the commandments fully. Christ tells us in Matthew, he came not to abolish the commandments, not one yoth shall be removed from them until the end and whosoever teaches others to break them shall be judged. We kill, steal, and covet from our neighbors. We do not keep the seventh day Sabbath. It’s too inconvenient to change it now. Or, and I love this excuse, we don’t really know it’s Saturday, or we should keep everyday holy. Christ came to teach us the difference between living by the precepts of man and the judgment of man and living by the freedom of the law which is God character, the ten commandments. Essentially Joel Olsteen has taught the same thing. He’s not Christ, he’s not perfect and he has admitted such. But, he does teach to better ourselves, and that will better those around us. And, draw more individuals to Christ than the denominational propaganda that has driven religion to date.

286. SONNY August 21, 2008 1:01 pm

     I keep on reading judge not and you will not be judged………the Bible say`s do not judge falsely, but when you can show someone proof that these people are in error then there is nothing more you can do………ever heard of the great white throne judgement? thereee you go, every human that`s ever lived past present and future will be there, so judge not and you won`t be judged, i doubt it……i don`t personally dislike Joel or any of the other false teachers, it`s the message they bring, it`s not Bible, on Larry king live, Joel when asked, evaded the question asked by Larry King, he should have said absolutely yes without hesitation, Jesus is the only way to GOD the Father, Jesus said no Man cometh to God but by me, i for the life of me don`t understand why people can`t understand that ……i really belive it`s b/c People don`t read the Bible, they say well the Preacher said it so it`s got to be truth, well truth is God commands us to read and study the Bible, he say`s study to show thy self approved, simply put, when some Preacher preaches a message that don`t square with the Bible, you will know it is not the truth of God…..i read touch not thy anointed in these posting`s……how can you be anointed when you don`t even know what the Bible say`s? more over, how can you preach God`s word if you are`nt qualified to do so?well if you don`t know what the Bible say`s, then a Person is not qualified to preach, so the person is not anointed to Preach after all. Joel is a strong motivational speaked with a big smile for everyone, no doubt about it……….but motivational speakers teach that you can actually speak thing`s into existence, well if you really believe that, the next time your house note or your car note is due and you`re two hundred dollars short, no problem, just speak the two hundred dollar`s right into your check book like you`ve been taught,there see how easy that was?……..here`s you a good one, next time you need to go to the mall leave your car home and save your gas, just speak wing`s into existence and fly there, see how easy that was?……..am i being foolish? of course i am, just like the people who teach this to you……they are called the name it and claim it gang….a blind person could see through this teaching and that`s the truth………God bless all……….

287. SONNY August 21, 2008 1:14 pm

     There is no set day for the sabbath, as long as you keep one day of the week for God………you don`t even have to go to church to be saved as far as that goes,the thief on the cross did`nt attend Church, and he did`nt speak in tongues either, but God said this day you will be with me in Heaven….

288. SONNY August 21, 2008 3:14 pm

     The whole truth is, we are all forgiven sinners, there are no perfect christians, there is no perfection in anything that man has to do with…..we sin everyday in our deed`s or our thought`s………we are all as of filthy raggs in the sight of God, the Bible say`s that…even Jesus when he was called good master, he said why callest me good, there is none good save one and that is God…..i know myself i struggle everday to try to live right, the Bible also say`s if we ofend in one of these law`s then we are guilty of all, so by that you can see how hard it is to really be a christian…..i think Elle made some very good point`s….i don`t believe any of us can look in the mirror at our self and say, yes i`m a perfect christian and i keep every law and commandment right to the tee, if we could say that then we would be trying to make our self equal with Jesus…..Jesus is the only one who could live a perfect life……………i

289. SONNY August 21, 2008 3:35 pm

     sorry my pc went on the blink and it posted before i was ready. i`m in noway a perfect christian, the difference is, i`m not on national television preaching what is proven to be wrong, so i think it hurts people not being given the truth, motivational preacher`s teach you can speak thing`s into your life, try to get something you really want by just speaking it and presto, it`s yours, can`t be done, that`s the problem i have with joel and others that teach this…..lot`s of people can make you feel good about your self when you are down, but it don`t mean it`s from God…..some of these people that make you feel good with word`s have more sadness than you do,they just don`t let you see it……i have a friend that laugh`s all the time, i said how do you stay so happy all the time? she said well as a friend i will tell you, she said i laugh to keep from crying…..such as a famous person on television who tell`s people how to save their mariage, now he is in a divorce, his marriage has maybe been in trouble for a long time, but yet he could tell you how to save your`s, i could`nt do people like that and sleep at night, but people like Dr – - – - seem to have no problem doing it…..God bless all….God bless you Elle……

290. Rosalie Sherrell August 21, 2008 7:47 pm

     Who are you to judge, if Joel is doing a scam God will deal with him.I am a christian and I listen to Joel ever Sunday.I think he is preety good I read my bible for myself. I think all christians need to laugh sometimes.

291. SONNY August 21, 2008 9:39 pm

     I would pray for Joel and all the other teacher`s, and i love it when someone think`s enough of me to Pray for me as well, but i still would`nt sit under Joel`s leadership until he made another appearance on Larry King, or for that matter on any new`s show, and say to the world, i made a big mistake, and i`m here to clear that up once and for all, he should say, my name is Joel Osteen as most of you know, and i want to say to the world, yes you absolutely have to believe that JESUS is the only way to GOD, JESUS said him self, no man cometh to the FATHER but by me…..that`s pretty clear, would`nt you say? and also stop teaching that you can speak whatever you want into your life with just word`s……if Joel cleared up this mistake i don`t think he would lose any members, he just might even gain some, i mean as many people that follow his direction now, if he gained more he might have to make an addition to his Church………but Joel is`nt the only one who is teaching this basically name it and claim it theology, i mean if you think about it, these teacher`s are saying you can have and do anything you want just with the force of words,Joel may be a real nice youg man, he may give alot of his money to many charitys, but it don`t matter unless you confess to the whole world that JESUS is the only way to GOD, and drop the name it and claim it theology…….GOD BLESS ALL……..

292. SONNY August 21, 2008 9:53 pm

     Joel if you are reading any of this, Joel Osteen that is, my God Son tell the whole world yes JESUS is the only way to GOD, your people won`t leave you, they will just love you even more than they already do, plus people that are now distant from you, they would come to believe your teaching`s as well, i mean you would actually gain people, think about that SON…..i WILL Pray about it on your behalf son……GOD BLESS…..

293. unbeliever August 22, 2008 3:37 am

     Joel Osteen teaches you how to be good which other ministries do not.Do you know how many non-believers would be saved when he says that he is not to judge. By saying non-believers will go to hell you make a disgusting statement that even if people have good deeds and believe in the almighty lord they go to hell. Do yu think non-believers would change their belief to a mean faith. You have chances of bringing a lot of non-believers to christianity if you are a good person with good deeds (christ’s compassion) and tell them with a compassionate heart about Jesus’s life on cross. If you are not a good example and have a satanic viewpoint like you and think you will go to heaven by being bad and just believing in christ you are mistaken. YOu have to be good as well as believe in Christ. ONly if you are good can you bring non-believers to Christ. Once you believe in Christ you have a betta life and do not go backwards. Do you know I have hundreds of non-believer friend who believe in the one omnipotent God are very successful and very good hearted and always ready to help any unfortunate person.When I go to the church full of christians they have every problem in the world and can be quite mean and racist also and are full of sin. Is that what Jesus wants. Jesus would want people to change their attitude and be positive and leaders like JOEL have got the message from the Bible and is teaching it. YOu say he is the most popular, it is God’s force working. So cheer up guy take the demon out of your thoughts and you start talking positive and do not be jealous.

294. SONNY August 22, 2008 6:35 am

     jUST b/c you are a beliver does`nt exempt you from trials and trouble. JESUSsaid that himself………..but again, if you are a preacher and you don`t tell the world, yes you absolutely have to believe JESUS is the only way to GOD,then it`s like playing baseabll, and your on first base, well that`s where you remain, without the confession.

295. SONNY August 22, 2008 8:27 am

     To give you another example, you can go to church every wednesday and every sunday, and you may sing louder than anyone in the choir, but unless you confess that JESUS is LORD to the glory of GOD the father, and that Jesus is the only way to GOD, and if you are a preasher tell the whole world that he is, then to be honest with you your time would be better spend participating in your favorite hobby….GOD bless………

296. SONNY August 22, 2008 8:33 am

     personally i think joel is a soft spoken nice looking youg man, and he seem`s to stir people very well, i would just love to see him go on national television again and tell the world that if you don`t believe JESUS is the only way to GOD then you are lost, and that`s the BIBLE truth, look for your self………..

297. SONNY August 22, 2008 8:58 am

     I saw where non believer said non believers are told they will go to hell, well here`s the truth, if you are a non believer and you remain a non believer until death of the physical body occurs, then yes you will spend eternity in a place called hell, hell meaning separation from GOD for all eternity, but if a non believer come`s to jesus, then he is as saved as anyone else, i talked to an atheist and he explained how silly this GOD thing was, i said well look at it like this, if you are wrong you have everything to lose and nothing to gain, but with a believer you have everything to gain and nothing to lose, it`s like playing russian roulette,remember the bullet just may be there…….

298. Christine Burke August 22, 2008 6:48 pm

     Ya know what? The saddest part of all is the flock of people waiting for the kill. No one is perfect, the Bible even mentions this type of problem and advises us to keep the good and leave the rest. No one in Christianity’s early days was “ordained”, not even Jesus himself, in the sense that Joel Osteen is being criticized for.He certainly does mention God often and paraphrases the Bible as well.Maybe we should spend a bit more time praying for Mr. Osteen than belittling him. I admit that sometimes the wealth thing bothers me and then I remember that compared to some of my brothers and sisters in other places, I am filthy rich.As are all of you. Not to mention the other blessings I am sure Father God has given you. And if Mr. Osteen had gone on national tv condemning people who were not even present, that would have given even more fuel to those who hate faith altogether. How do you know what he would say to someone like Paris Hilton if she called him personally? Stop being so full of criticism motivated by jealousy,leave it to God to know others motives and worry a bit more about your own. The way we all turn on each other makes unbelievers work easier. Deal with a problemBut as to date, you have no sound reason for this and that says a lot about you. if and when it arises and if you do not like him, change the channel. But you have no merit for these cases against him, so let others receive a good message if it is there for them and you go elsewhere.

299. sonny August 22, 2008 9:43 pm

     I was reading the post that was talking about being the first to the kill……well i`ts not about running someone down, in the Larry King clip above, Larry King said, he had many preacher`s on his show and they all said yes you have to believe in JESUS………Joel start`s out by saying, well i don`t know if i believe, ect. ect…….Larry King said what if you are Jewish or Muslim and you don`t believe in JESUS, ect. ect? again Joel started off with i don`t know….Larry King said when People say you have to believe in JESUS they are wrong are`nt they? Joel said wellll i don`t know if i believe they are wrong ect. ect……….THE only thing i heard Joel say was he wanted a relationship with CHRIST……..when someone`s eternal fate is hanging in the balance for GOD`S sake tell them yes, unequivocaly, you have to believe JESUS is the only way to GOD…….JESUS said it this way, if you`ll not acknoledge me before men then i`ll not acknoledge you before my father whitch is in Heaven……….so i think preacher`s should tell the congregation that JESUS is the only way under HEAVEN in whitch a man can be saved, a lost and dieing world is depending on it……..so it`s not about bashing someone….I mean the BIBLE say`s straight is the way and narow is the gate that leadeth to eternal life and few there be that will find it………but broad is the road and wide is the gate that leadeth to eternal destruction and many there be that will go there in…..based on that, it`s my opinion that Heaven will not be an over populated place………..I don`t understand, i really don`t, why people sit under a pastor that won`t face off with the whole world if need be, and say yes you have to believe JESUS is the only way to GOD…..but it`s all on the clip above, if you have audio sound, check it out for yourself……….but we should pray pray pray, that JOEL will face up to the world and not let the devil whip him down, stand firm and say yes, JESUS is the only way to GOD, b/c that`s in the BIBLE…..i can`t judge Joel`s heart or any one else, but what i can do is test what they say in light of scripture, and hold on to that whitch is good……….GOD bless everyone on this site, b/c i believe that we all have a love for GOD or we would`nt be on here…..Good Night all..GOD BLESS……….

300. unbeliever August 23, 2008 1:29 am

     Sonny what’s bothering you. Keep reading the bible everyday and you will get an answer. We are no-one to judge. God will judge you and me on judgemental day. You can only talk if have saved as many souls as Joel Osteen has. God has given him the charisma to change evil thoughts of men, you and me, so it is about time we read hisbook.Once we change to good thoughts automatically our heart can tell each individual how Jesus can heal or save their lives. In TV network you cannot condemn the listeners which are varied which also includes non-believers. Do you know how many people may have been saved because he did not condemn anyone on that interview. Jesus preached Love so let there be love among all. Life is too short and we have an eternal life in heaven waiting for us so we should encourage good thoughts and not evil thoughts. Anyway whatever is written if people have Jesus in their heart they will not believe what is written in this website, in fact they will get closer to the Osteen Ministry. God bless Joel and his ministry.

301. sonny August 23, 2008 6:25 am

     Well unbeliever with all due respect, you talk about GOD`S love but yet you say you are an unbeliever, you my friend like so many other`s are being led down a blind alley, like the BIBLE say`s, the blind leading the blind and they all fall in the ditch……i don`t have any hate for anyone, but People say o can`t we all just get along….you say Joel did`nt go on television and condeem anyone, well first place Joel or nobody else can condeem anyone, only JESUS can make an eternal condeemnation………but my friend you are already condeemed by GOD himself when you say you are GOD`S messenger, a preacher, but yet you continue to say to the world, i don`t know, i don`t know, i don`t know, what do you mean i don`t know? he has one of the biggest platform`s in the world, and countless souls are relying on what he tell`s them……when you don`t tell people JESUS is the only way to GOD then it`s b/c you are afraid of what people will think……….i will stand on the tallest mountain in the world and tell you and the rest of the world, if you don`t believe JESUS is the only way to GOD, and tell people that, then your faith is all in vain, don`t waste your time going to church….all you have to do is look in a BIBLE, being an unbeliever you may not have one, but i assure you any real christian will loan you their`s, not only that they will show you the passage where it say`s, yes, yes, yes, you do have to believe JESUS is the only way to GOD and moreover you have to defend that against any and all commer`s until your dieing day, or until JESUS himself returns, there`s noway to know, you could very well be alive when JESUS returns, i no there are some preacher`s who teach you have to die first, well THE BIBLE clearly teache`s that nobody know`s the time of our LORD`S return, not the Angels, nor the SON but rather the FATHER only know`s, so you can clearly see that there will be people still alive at that glorius moment…..i`ve been in the BIBLE so long that when someone tell`s and untruth my untruth alarm goe`s off immediately. and when you read it in the BIBLE and you know it`s the truth of GOD and you still don`t believe it, well christianity is like a game of some sort you are playing………some people regard their pastor like he is a rock star, or a movie star, and even though he is not right, they will defend him or her with until their dieing breath, i mean think of it? you are defending a human being, someone made of flesh bone and blood just like you and me, someone who can`t even save their own soul, not to mention mine or your`s, so why follow that kind of leed? follow the one who say`s fear not him that is able to kill the body and after that can do no more, but i`ll tell you whom you should fear, fear him that is able to kill the body and turn your soul into hell, GOD can do the latter half of this sentence………..GOD bless you my friend………

302. Rev. Terron Fleming August 23, 2008 6:26 pm

     Joel Osteen is is NOT a fake or fraud. Joel is the best pastor, husband, father, role model going today. Joel has changed MILLIONS of peoples lives. Let me repharse that, GOD has used JOEL to change MILLIONS of peoples lives. God is mentioned in all of of his books and sermons. To Joel, I say, “keep on keeping on. Don’t change.” To all of the naysayers who love to judge, “do not judge or you will be judged.”

303. mule train August 23, 2008 8:33 pm

     ok

304. dog catcher August 23, 2008 8:38 pm

     Rev Fleming and mule train did`nt see Joel on Larry king when he would`nt say JESUS was the only way to GOD, forget his book`s, the whole world did`nt see his book`s.

305. Eagle Wing`s August 23, 2008 8:41 pm

     Rev. Fleming and mule train is out voted, i did`nt hear him on Larry King say Jesus was the only way to GOD either.

306. Pulpit August 23, 2008 8:48 pm

     Rev Fleming joel is already judged, if i was him i`d go back on Larry King and make a restatement, and this time tell it right. Jesus is the only way to GOD, when he confesses that, GOD`S judgment will be off of him. Good Night.

307. coveralls August 23, 2008 8:53 pm

     I vote for dog catcher and pulpit and eagle wing.

308. sonny August 23, 2008 8:56 pm

     Yall be nice now don`t gang up on the revern to bad, i`m going to bed. GOD BLESS.

309. Play Mistyyy August 23, 2008 9:05 pm

     Sound`s like the rev lives with joele ,he knows so much about him. tell joel to fess up preacher.

310. GODBELEIVER August 24, 2008 7:59 am

     I noticed the revern said or or you will be judged, there`s no or or if to it , you will be judged at the great white throne judgement, but there`s nothing in the BIBLE that say`s you cant`t judge richeously, Joel shoul tell Poople straight out……….yesssssssss you must beleive JESUS is the only way to GOD……..period and there is no other way………..kinda like the unbeleiver that was caught reading the BILE, someone said i thought you were an unbeleiver, he said i am. they said well why are you reading it then, he said o i`m just looking for loop hole`s, well there ain`t any, ain`t none for joel either…

311. Andrea August 24, 2008 11:09 pm

     First I want to say that if you really understood the word you would know that their are individuals that are called by GOD to preach the gospel. Then we have those who decide to attend the semimary just like a high school graduate would select a college to attend in the fall in order to minister. So yes there are those who were called by GOD and never took a class because the information they needed is found within the BIBLE and by studying the word of GOD and being led by GOD that’s enough. I’m not quite sure which of Joel’s sermons you heard when you stated that he doesn’t even mention GOD. I watch him from time to time and he always mentions GOD and he never request listeners to send him money. I suggest that you GET TO KNOW GOD FOR YOURSELF AND STOP TRYING TO FIND SOMETHING NEGATIVE TO WRITE CONCERNING THE CHURCH. WHY NOT PREACH THE GOOD NEWS OF JESUS TO HELP UPLIFT A DYING WORLD! THE BIBLE SAYS TO PROSPER AND BE OF GOOD HEALTH! My prayer is that you get to know HIM before its too late!!!!

312. JOANN August 25, 2008 8:57 am

     I REALLY BELIEVE ALL YOUR SLANDERING ON JOEL OSTEEN IS A SIN IN ITSELF AND REALLY SAD. I ALWAYS BELIEVED THAT PEOPLE WHO SLANDER LIKE THAT ARE JUST PEOPLE WHO ARE TRYING TO MAKE THEMSELVES LOOK BETTER OR THEIR BELIEFS BE BETTER THAN THE ONE THEY ARE SLANDERING. ITS A SHAME THAT YOUR TRYING TO TEAR DOWN SOMEBODY WHO HELPS ALOT OF PEOPLE. THANK GOD FOR JOEL OSTEEN

313. BIBLEMAN August 25, 2008 9:04 am

     ANDREA say`s if you understood the word, well if Andrea understood the word she would understand that if you don`t come straight out and tell the people of the world that JESUS is the only way to GOD, then you can preach until you are blue in the face and your breath was just wasted, you could have used that breath for some other task, b/c the BIBLE plainly teaches that if you will not acknoledge me before man, then i will not acknoledge you before my father whitch is in Heaven……..i`m not saying he was ashamed to acknoledge JESUS on Larry King, i`m just saying he did`nt,hekept saying i don`t know, and he said i don`t know to three very very important questions……play the clip above and you will see and hear for yourself what the three thing`s are…the main theme in all the BIBLE is, do you believe JESUS is the only way to GOD? I mean JESUS said himself, no man cometh to the Father but by me, well when you continue to say to the world on nationaltv i don`t know i don`t know i don`t know, well i assure you GOD has a record of every one of those i don`t answers, but Joel could straighten that all out, but he to date has`nt done it, so if you want to follow him or any other leader that will not come out and say to the world, yes yes yes you have to believe that JESUS is the only way to GOD, then you would be doing youself a big service by not even trying to preach, b/c it`s all in vain anyway, just wasted time….personally myself, if my Pastor would`nt stand up to the whole world and say, absolutely yes, if you don`t believe JESUS is the only way to GOD, i would be out of ther plenty fast, b/c if you don`t believe JESUS is the only way to GOD, then you don`t have to worry about Heaven, b/c you`re never gona see it,and people say well people have different gift`s with GOD, the truth is you have no gift with GOD period until you say JESUS is the only way to GOD, until you say that and believe that, then GOD rejects you everyway you try to come to him, and that`s the truth, you may have the biggest Church in all the world, but GOD is not impressed until you say openly that his son is the only way to HIM…..play the clip above, and if you still don`t believe after seeing and hearing it, then it means you make your own rules and you`re not concerned with GOD`S, and i say all this in love. GOD BLESS YOU DEAR…

314. BIBLEMAN August 25, 2008 9:10 am

     IT has nothing to do with slander, slander is a terrible thing, when you point out to someone something that JESUS said himself, that no Man cometh to the father but by me, i would hardly call that slander, if JESUS was here now he would tell you the same thing, and i sure would`nt say JESUS was a slanderer..

315. playmisty August 25, 2008 9:15 am

     What i don`t understand is all these people talking about Joel, or any of these other preachers being called by God, you`re not called by God when you won`t even admitt that he is the only to God.

316. playmisty August 25, 2008 9:17 am

     what i meant was JESUS is the only way to God.

317. Rev. Terron Fleming August 25, 2008 11:19 am

     Well to “Play Mistyyy,” I do not live with Joel, even though I would love to live in his 1.2 Million dollar home…lol. To correct everyone, Joel DID go back on Larry King and put a letter on his website since he noticed he was unclear on his statmenet to heaven. Joel is not a fraud or false teacher like everyone says. Let me tell ya, Joels messages are extremely helpful. Thinking the right thoughts? Having strong relationships? Confidence? Forgiveness? God’s Love and Mercy? Oh yea, thats junk, lets just preach on Hell, Hell, Hell. NO! His messages are oh so import and critical to your walk with Christ. Let me explain Joels messge to you. He preaches on God’s love and compassion. How God sent his ONLY son to die for our sins. He preaches that even when we sin, he still loves us. He preaches, even when we leave God, God will never leave or forsake us. You see, Joel uses reverse of what PENTACOSTALS use. When people, with a heart, here about how Jesus, innocent, died for EVERYONE, and how he forgives and has love and compassion for everyone, that is a sense condems them. We should be thinking, “man, Jesus did for me and Im commiting adultry, stealing, lieing , cheating, using the Lords name in vain.” When people here about God’s love and mercy, that makes them look at themselves and their sins and see what there missing…A loving father,who will always be there for us, who loves us, cares about, cares about our dreams, given us a hope and future. Thats that type of God we have. We will have tough times, yea. Jesus had them so ditto with us. I love what Bayless Conelys,Cottonwood Christian Center, slogan is at his church, “Bringing a living Jesus to a Dying world.” Thats what Joel is doing via tv, outreach, on the road. This world is dying and Joel and his team of christ warriors are sharing the love and mercy of Jesus christ. Does he have short comings? We all do. But I am not going to tell a multimillionaire, best selling author, the most influencial christian and pastor of the largest church what to and not to preach. I personally have met Joel so it’s not just what I see on tv. He is as realer that real. I can sum it up this way, we all know that hearts and spirits can be percieved. We know when someones heart is after themselves and me, me, me. From meeting with Joel, I can tell his heart is to help hurting people, his heart is to help lead as many people possible to christ, his heart is to fulfull the great commission, and his heart(just as should every other christian) is to bring a LIVING Jesus to a DYING world!

318. Rev. Terron Fleming August 25, 2008 11:26 am

     TO EVERYONE WHO THINKS JOELS MESSAGE IS WRONG, DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! START YOUR OWN CHURCH AND PREACH “THE RIGHT MESSAGE” AND LEAD ALL 50,000 AWAY FROM LAKEWOOD AND SAVE THEM FROM “HELL” SINCE YOU THINK THERE GOING THERE. I HAVE LEARNED THAT IF YOU DONT LIKE SOMETHING, DO COMPLAIN. BLOGS DONT HELP. JOEL CHURCH GROWS WEEKLY. YOUR GETTING NOTHING ACCOMPLISHED.

     P.S. JOELS MESSAGE THIS PAST SUNDAY WAS GREAT!…AS USUAL..LOL

319. playmisty August 25, 2008 3:23 pm

     Joel said three time`s i don`t know, well he was given every chance to say JESUS was the only way to GOD but he did`nt say it, so any body that won`t tell the world that is no preacher, not from GOD anyway…..my pc sent before i was ready…….

320. playmisty August 25, 2008 4:04 pm

     Well revern you seem to be interested in his house and his million dollar book deal. that right there shows you are interested in the thing`s of this world, something JESUS warned about time and time again. you said you would like to live in it, i`d rather live in the mansion built by the architech of the age`s, not built by human hand`s, in short built by GOD………you said Joel make`s you feel good, and you are exactly right, feel good theology, name it and claim it, you said you would`nt tell a man who is a multimillionare what to preach, well that`s b/c you are afraid of him, his money and his power, i would tell the whole world the same thing JESUS said over and over again, he said i am the truth and the life and no man commeth to the father but by me, i mean that`s so simple that a first grade child could understand it…….and if you won`t do that, say that JESUS is the only way to GOD, then your no preacher, not from GOD anyway, you may be a so called preacher, but i assure you GOD Joel take`s notes of anyone who try`s to preach a message and not say that JESUS is the only way to GOD, i mean good night man, all you have to do is watch the clip above and you will see for yourself, and yes i know, there are people that will defend this kind of teaching with their dieing breath, they don`t want these people found out about, b/c they are their heroe`s……..you said his message was so import with your walk with god, what`s an import walk with GOD mean? just curious, never heard about the import walk, maybe i`m missing something, but anyway get your eye`s of Joel`s home and his money rev. b/c you`re never gona have any of it, and it`s not christianity either. Lary King gave Joel every chance in the world to say JESUS is the only way to GOD and he would`nt do it, it`s almost like King wanted him to say it b/c he asked him three time`s, every time Joel said wellllll welllllll i don`t know if i can say they are wrong when they say you have to believe JESUS is the only way to GOD, well right is denial of JESUS, and if you are a real rev. you know the BIBLE say`s………JESUS said if you will not confess me before men, then i`ll not confess you before my father whitch is in HEAVEN, well if i was JOEL i would go back on national television as soon as i could get air time, and i would say to the whole world, i made a terrible mistake, one that i`m gonna rectify right now before the whole world………..NOW HEAR ME WORLD, YES YOU HAVE TO BELIEVE JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY TO GOD, and without that belief you will spend eternity in a place called hell, you will be there hundred`s of year`s, thousand`s of year`s, million`s of year`s, billion`s of year`s and ions of time, forever and ener, if your a real preacher you know all this, and if not i`d go back to BIBLE college…..GOD BLESS YOU.

321. playmisty August 25, 2008 4:15 pm

     I said Joel take`s note`s, my mistake, GOD take`s note`s but i just don`t get it, a person`s eternal destiny hang`s in the balance on that one truth, JESUS is the only way to GOD, yet people listen to someone who won`t say that, like the BIBLE say`s, they exchanged the truth for a lie…….

322. playmisty August 25, 2008 4:18 pm

     What will you say to JESUS someday Rev? now hold on there JESUS i know Joel Osteen and he said it`s not like that, i bet you won`t get away with it.

323. Eagle Wing`s August 25, 2008 4:34 pm

     Rev you seem to know alot about Joel Osteen, well do you approve of the theatrical roof there, you know, it change`s color, this roof cost GOD only know`s how much, seem`s like children that are supposed to be learning about GOD would be watching the ceiling all the time instead of listening to the sermon, i mean can`t you just hear? heyyyyy Lary a minute ago the ceiling was red, hey look look now it`s turning green, Hey Bobby look now it`s turning tri color`s, two buddie`s talking to each other while Mom and Dad are not watching them, and your ok with that i`m guessing, and this would be ok with you because why? money wasted for show to say look at our toy`s but it has nothing to do with salvation, trust me it don`t.

324. Sonny August 25, 2008 4:48 pm

     People keep saying over and over about how the church make`s them feel good, lot`s of thing`s can make you feel good, but if a preacher does`nt tell the world, yes you must believe that JESUS is the only way to GOD, then i would`nt give that preacher a chance to make me happy, i would say that`s ok brother you can keep it all for youself, now see how happy you are?

325. Rev. Terron Fleming August 25, 2008 6:17 pm

     To “play misty,” I am not focused on Joel’s house, money and power. Additionally, I am not focused on the things of this world. I was clearly making a statement of success that he has to make a point. And fyi, I already do have it thank you very much..lol. Also, I NEVER said joel makes me feel good. Might want to adjust your glasses..lol. Afraid of Joel? No. Joel is doing nothing wrong. Anyone thats in the public will get critizied. Joels no exception. He hes a fraud, why is he still on the air? I mean, we no about Robert Tilton and hes off the air because people found out about him. Listen, I will defend Joel to the end. “Play Misty”, get over whatever jealousy you have of Joel and become a supporter. Joel is far along with his walk with christ hint that is why God has given him what he has today, not just money and a big house.

     To “Eagle Wings”, do I approve of their roof? What does that matter. Thats just for effects to make service more enjoyable and not catholic like. Its just like people who say well why do preachers need a million dollar house when a one-hundred thousand house will do? Its there choice. Joels church is awesome. The lightings for effect and you can steal enjoy the service and message with it. So do I approve, SURE DO!

     To all the Joel Haters, instead of slandering joel, how about you pray for him since you think hes doing something wrong, which he isn’t. Pray that God will touch his heart. Stop you allegations and pray for Joel and the staff at Lakewood. This is the era of Joel Scott Haley Osteen and he is good for America. With all thats in the world today and the crap on tv its good to know we have Joel to set an example of what it means to live a holy and godly life. Pastors job is hard. Especially when your in the public like he is. I pray for joel and his family and the body of Lakewood every single day and God is doing some “unusual” things through this church. Lakewood Church very much like the church in the book of acts. Every church should be like that.

326. Sandy August 26, 2008 4:09 am

     THIS BLOG IS RIDICULOUS. I WATCH JOEL EVERY SUNDAY MORNING, AND APPARENTLY YOU HAVE NOT!!!!!. HE PREACHES AND TELLS EVERYONE THAT WE ARE THE CHILDREN OF GOD, AND WE HAVE LOYAL BLOOD RUNNING THROUGH US BECAUSE WE ARE SAVED CHRISTIANS. HE IS THE BEST PREACHER THAT I HAVE EVER LISTENED TO, AND UPLIFTS MY HEART EVERY SINGLE DAY. THAT IS THE WORK OF THE LORD. THE LORD TEACHES US THROUGH HIM. WHAT SCAM. MAYBE YOU OUGHT TO GO TO LAKEWOOD CHURCH AND LISTEN MORE ATTENTIVELY, AND STOP BEING SO NEGATIVE IN YOUR THINKING. SCEPTICISM IS THE WORK OF THE DEVIL. JOEL ALSO DOES WORK FOR ***FEED THE CHILDREN***. SO, MY ADVICE TO YOU…………..GET OPEN YOUR BIBLE AND START READING IT, AND YOU WILL FIND ALL SORTS OF THE STORIES THAT JOEL PREACHES ABOUT. YOU ARE THE SCAMMER NOT HIM.

     SANDY
     WESTFIELD, MA

327. Rev. Terron Fleming August 26, 2008 12:12 pm

     To Sandy, I agree. FINALLY a person with a brain. I have read through the bible so many times and have learned a lot more from listening to joel. I agree with you Sandy, Joel is the best Pastor going today. I pray that every pastor would get a vision like Joel.

328. Joel August 26, 2008 12:16 pm

     Pastor Terron Fleming, I usually don’t join in the conversation on this post anymore, but I just saw your comment and couldn’t believe my eyes. Did you really just say that you have learned “a lot more” from Joel Osteen than from the Bible?!?!?!?!

     You must have mistyped. There is no way that a true Christian pastor would ever make an outrageous comment like that. If you did say that, you basically are trampling on Christianity itself.

     Please clarify.

329. Sonny August 26, 2008 4:24 pm

     THE rev. said he was`nt focused on Joel`s House, but if you look at post 317 you will clearly see where he said he would like to live in Joel`s 1. 2 million dollar house, so you say i need to adjust my glassess, sound`s like you need more than adjustment, you need new one`s, your own word`s contradict you, secondly nobody said anything about hating joel as you put it, thirdly you say you would`nt tell a person that`s a millionare what to preach, what`s money got to do with it? but i do believe by your word`s, you are intimated by him, else you would`nt keep talking about his worth……you said you was`nt interested in the thing`s of this world, well if you knew Genisis from Revelation`s, you would know making a statement like you made about wanting to live in his, as you put it 1.2 million dollar home,and the light`s in the ceiling, you would know that these are thing`s of the world……you ask the question, if Joel is so wrong, then why is he a success? well just b/c in your mind he is a success, don`t mean he is right, the devil has power to, he lead`s people astray everyday, and no i`m not saying Joel is the devil, you say we should pray for Joel, well truth is we should pray for everone, but if you read any of my note`s you would see where i do pray for Joel and everyone else, it`s not about hating Joel or anyone else, it`s about what he said on Larry King, that would apply to me as well, if i was on Larry King or any other talk show, and the question was put to me, Larry King—–well Joel when people say you have to believe in CHRIST they are wrong are`nt they?——Joel said, well i don`t know if they are wrong, i mean g wiz rev. it`s on the clip above…….i don`t care how much money he has or you have or anyone else, JESUS SAID IF YOU WILL NOT CONFESS ME BEFORE MEN, THEN I WILL NOT CONFESS YOU BEFORE MY FATHER WHITCH IS IN HEAVEN, as i said earlier, a first grade child could understand that……..that`s why people are at odd`s with Joel, and anyone who has read two page`s of the BIBLE know`s, if you hum haw around and won`t come out and tell People that yes you have to believe JESUS is the only way to GOD, well i will tell you plainly, your faith is in vain, and yes you will be seperated from GOD for all eteranity for denying the only begotten SON OF GOD, it can`t be made any plainer than that………so it`s not about hate for someone, it`s about doing it GOD`S way and not man`s way, so you can have the biggest church in the world, but if you don`t tell people JESUS is the only way to GOD, then you are a member of some fat cat club, and i assure you GOD is not in that building anywhere, even as much as you would like him to be, when you do it GOD`S way then he will be there, but not until….Rev. say`s Joel is the best pastor going today, make`s one wonder if you are really a pastor, you are siding with Joel if that` the case, and you both won`t say Jesus is the only way to GOD…………GOD BLESS ALL.

330. Sonny August 26, 2008 4:43 pm

     Sandy say`s we need to read our BIBLE, well Sandy with all due respect, if you read your`s, you will see where it say`s, JESUS said if you will not confess me before men then i will not confess you before my father whitch is in heaven, you say you learn alot from little brother Osteen, well one thing`s for sure, you`ve learned it`s ok to not say JESUS is the only way to GOD GOD GOD, it`s in your BIBLE Sandy, all you have to do is read it, the BIBLE call`s it like it is……..THEEEE blindddd leadinggg the blind, and they all fall in the ditch, so you are following a person that is SPIRTIUOSLY blind, sorta like having a blind driver, only worse, stoppppp let me out……GOD bles you Sandy………

331. Rev. Terron Fleming August 26, 2008 8:34 pm

     To “Joel” I must have mistyped. What I meant was I have read through the bible numerous times and there has been things that ethier didn’t stand out or I didn’t understand and through Joels phenomenal messages, God has used him to help me comprehend certain things better through Joels example. To ‘Sonny” I did say I wanted to live in joels house but I also put “lol” after it as I was joking. I don’t want or need joels material things as I have my own..Aditionally, apparently you didn’t read my last blog as I told you joel did go back on larry king and corrected his statment and he also but a letter on his website. Once again, Joel is the best pastor going today and if your looking for a gooooooood bible base church, go to Lakewood or Cottonwood Christian Center.

     Additionally, its not in my “mind” Joel Osteen is a success. A big one as that. Let me ask you “sonny” how many people are you winning to christ? How many letters are you getting telling you how god has you used to change their lives, restore broking relationships, breaking addictions..etc? I guarantee u, joel has u beat by millions..now no we should compare but we also shouldn’t judge when were not doing anything…God bless joel and the body of Lakewood!

332. Caprice August 26, 2008 9:42 pm

     All the years that I have been a christian I have been misinformed, I truely thought that only God could judge man for his sins..

333. Sonny August 27, 2008 9:00 am

     I don`t know where Joel`s website is where he reversed his decision on, yes to have to believe in Christ to be saved, i also don`t know why you would have to even think about such an important issue, that should be the first thing you learn before you even think about Preaching, i don`t know about him going back on Larry King either, i`ll check it out, but if he did i`m glad he did, b/c i`ve been beating this drum from the begining,yes you have to believe in CHRIST to be saved, pessonally i believe everyone on this site has a love for GOD or they would`nt be posting, but you have to be right, and if you don`t think you have to believe in CHRIST to be saved,then pray tell who do you have to believe in……..Caprice said all these year`s she has been misinformed, well Caprice the BIBLE say`s we will one day judge the ANGEL`S, i looked it up for you word for word, i knew what it said, but i wanted it to be word for word,nothing added,nothing taken away,the BIBLE say`s…….we are commanded by the LORD JESUS, do not judge, or you too will be judged (Matthew 7:1) on the other hand, the BIBLE also exhorts us to beware of evildoers and false prophets and to avoid those who practice all kinds of evil. how are we to discern who these People are if we do not make some kind of judgement about them? Christians are often accused of ” judging ” whenever they speak out against a sinful activity. however, that is not the meaning of the scripture verses that state, do not judge.” There is a righteous kind of judgement we are supposed to exercise- with careful discernment ( John 7: 24 ) when JESUS told us not to judge (Matthew 7:1 ), he was telling us not to judge hypocritically. (Matthew 7:2-5 declares), for in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the same measure you use,it will be measured to you. why do you look at the speck in your brother`s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? how can you say to your brother, let me take the speck out of your eye’when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? what JESUS was condemming here was hypocritical, self-righteous judgements of others……..in Matthew 7:25-5, JESUS warns against judging someone else for their sin when you yourself are sinning even worse. well saying you don`t have to believe in CHRIST, i don`t know of any worse sin, i`ve never said, nor believed, you don`t have to believe in CHRIST, so if someone teaches this, i have a right according to the BIBLE to judge it and call it what it is- sin….if i had at anytime said or told someone that you don`t have to believe in CHRIST, and then i turned around later and corrected them in judgement, then i would be judging hypocritically,something GOD say`s is wrong…..so this is the kind of judging JESUS commanded us not to do. if a believer sees another believer sinning, it is their christian duty to lovingly and respectfully confront the person with their sin (Matthew 18-15-17 ), this is not judging,but rather pointing out the truth in hope-and with the ultimate goal-of bringing repentance in the other person (James 5:20)and restoration to the fellowship. we are to speak the truth in love(Ephesians 4:15), we are to proclaim what GODS word says about sin. 2 Timothy 4:2 instructs us, “preach the word;be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction; we are to judge sin’ but alway with the goal of presenting the solution for sin and its consequenses-the LORD JESUS CHRIST John 14:6………so if you look at my notes, you will see thats what i did, i said Joel was wrong for not saying you have to believe in CHRIST, i never called him any names or talked about his wealth,or his home, i did say i dont understand the ceiling that changes colors at the church, i mean i dont think its rocket science to know that children will spend alot of time staring at the ceiling when they should be listening to the service………..GOD BLESS ALL.

334. ALICIA CANO August 27, 2008 9:02 am

     I WOULDN’T DARE TRY TO SIT IN GOD’S SEAT AND JUDGE! I’VE BEEN DELIVERED FROM MY PAST HABBITS AND SIN. GOD IS A GOD OF MIRACLES AND I AM LIVING, WALKING PROOF! MY CHILDREN ARE ANOTHER TESTIMONY! WHEN YOU ARE GUIDED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT, GOD GIVES YOU THE DISCERNAMENT TO IDENTIFY GOOD AND BAD SPIRITS. I BELIEVE THAT JOEL OSTEEN IS A MAN OF GOD AND WHEN YOU WALK THE NARROW ROAD, SATAN WILL USE ANYTHING AND ANYONE TO ATTACK. I ONCE BELONGED TO SATAN, BUT NOW I BELONG TO MY JESUS.THATS WHY SATAN IS SO ANGRY WITH ME AND HE WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO SEE ME FALL! BUT GOD IS AN AWSOME GOD AND WILL SHIELD ME AGAINST ALL EVIL!! I PRAY THAT GOD WILL TOUCH YOUR HEART AND OPEN YOUR EYES TO HIS GOODNESS ,MERCY & AWSOMENESS!!!!

335. Rev. Terron Fleming August 27, 2008 10:12 am

     Joel Osteen…#1

336. Rev. Terron Fleming August 27, 2008 10:15 am

     By the way, this took place a year or to ago so I doubt the letter is still on his website. Joel clearly stated that when people called the church and complained he reviewed the larry king footage and posted the letter on his site and went back on larry king and retracted his statement. Put it to rest. Your not going to win. Anyone who knows joel knows his heart and I can’t wait for all of us to be in heaven having one big party worshipping our big god. So stop the bashing on joel until you get the facts straight. those videos mean nothing…

337. a breath of fresh air August 27, 2008 10:51 am

     I enjoy Joel Osteen because he preaches the bible but relates it to everyday living. This country has been torn apart over the last 3 decades because of catholic priests who supposedly preach the bible. But what also amazes me is that catholics are not allowed to read the bible.

     I was born a catholic and proud to say that I am a born again Christian, Catholism should be abolished, it is a supressed religion. At least after watching Joel Oseen you feel good about life and yourself. Have you sat for a catholic sermon, boring, boring, boring.

     Leave the guy alone, he makes people feel good. It’s nice to watch a 30 minute program and have no sex, violance,vulgar language. Hmmm something we should all think about. And society wonders why the kids today are so screwed up, maybe they should shut off their t.v.s

338. Sonny August 27, 2008 11:28 am

     I did`nt have any intentions of winning, GOD HAS ALREADY WON, OVER TWO THOUSND YEARS AGO, I have to QUESTION your understanding when you continue to say i`m bashing Joel, i`m not bashing anyone, i just told you what was written in the SCRIPTURES, don`t judge falsey, if you really are a rev. you should have learned that your first day of BIBLE school, so i don`t have to win anything, you just don`t understand the scriptures,you clearly don`t have your facts straight, for instance you said you did`nt say anything about Joels possessions, then you recanted your story and said you did comment on his possessions, laugh out loud, as you aptly put it, but i love and help everyone i can, b/c if you don`t, your faith is in vain……….the videos might not have meant anything to you, but to true believers, as the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words, you have no defence against it, your not in check, but rather your in check mate, you have no move rev. but as i said, you should have learned you have to confess CHRIST your first day of BIBLE scool, that is if you went to BIBLE school, some people don`t go you know……….to ALICIA, I did`nt sit on any seat, i just typed what was written in the KING JAMES BIBLE, so you are confused, you certainly can judge according to the KING JAMES BIBLE, it`s in your BIBLE…just don`t stand in judgement on someone for something you have done yourself, i`ve never said, nor will i ever say, when someone says, well when people say you have to believe in CHRIST they are wrong are`nt they/? then i say, well i would`nt say they are wrong….i`ve never said or believed that, if you don`t believe me, ask me………i`m thrilled you are delivered and having a wonderful life, but i assure you, you did`nt get it from someone who says they don`t know if your wrong for not believing in CHRIST, i mean that`s an elementary thought, it realy is……….NO MAN COMMETH TO THE FATHER BUT BY ME, WORDS OF JESUS…..I would love to be at the holy party in heaven myself, i don`t know if he is big or not, but none the less i would love to be there, if you want to know how big JESUS is, ask Kenneth Copeland, he says he knows, that poor soul has more hang up`s than a dry cleaners, and yes i hope he stops his maddness before it`s to late. GOD BLESS ALL………

339. Sonny August 27, 2008 11:40 am

     One of my best friends was catholic, he died in 1971, i loved him as a brother, and words can`t say how much i miss him, i have`nt seen his children since, he was in the Navy Reserve…….all i know about Catholic faith is, you go to confession and confess your sins to the,what they call father, truth is the father can`nt forgive his own sins,to say nothing of mine, also the BIBLE says call no man upon the earth your father, for you have one father, and that is your heavenly father……….

340. Kim August 27, 2008 4:06 pm

     LET GOD JUDGE HIM!!! If you dont beleive what he teahces thats fine, dont listen. You have a choice of who you let speak into your life. I dont know who told the lie he doesnt peak about God or Jesus hin his sermons because he does, I have listened to some of the shows and that is a all out lie.

     You dont have to be ordained by anyone but God. No man on this earth can ordain you to preach God’s word, that comes from God himslef. And teaching you to live a happy life is one of the things he should teach his congregation. Why be here on eath unhappy when God said he will supply all your needs, when are his child, when all you have to do is ask in son Jesus name! Would you rather he taught unhappiness, and misery?

     Are you trying to jugde him? Let God do his work please.

341. play misty ! August 27, 2008 4:14 pm

     Sonny you are telling them the truth, Terron just can`t read. first he talks about how much Joels house cost, and said he would like to live there, then he said he did`nt say that,then he said he did say that, then he said he was kidding, then he boast and says he has his own and don`t need Joels.I think it`s like you said about Keneth Copeland, Terron has more hang ups than a dry cleaners, that was funny, i`m gona have to remember that one. I saw Keneth Copeland claiming to be laughing in tounges, i believe they called it dueling tongue, because he was doing it with someone else, i mean, how insane is that? i know the gift of tounges is real because its mentioned in the Book of acts, but it don`t work the way he does it. so you wonder when terron is telling the truth, or better yet if he even knows the truth.

342. play misty ! August 27, 2008 4:23 pm

     O i also saw Copeland claiming to be laughing in tounges with someone, they called it holy laughter, how insane, and People really believe this guy. also terron, when you boasted about having your own things, things like joel has, that was bible wise wrong, at least joel don`t boast about the thing`s he has, i will say that for him, even though i don`t believe his doctrine is sound. you said joels home cost 1.2 million dollars, how do you know terron? i never heard him say how much he paid for it, do you keep the deed to his home for him?

343. play misty ! August 27, 2008 4:29 pm

     well i take that back, i was watching once just to see what joel would say, and he did say something to the effect about his wife victoria finding this big home, but i don`t remember if he said what it cost, but if it cost a trillion dollars, don`t be jealous terron,because that`s wrong to.

344. sonny August 27, 2008 5:59 pm

     Joel, the host of this blog that is, do you know of a reappearance on Larry king where Joel Osteen cleared up what he said back in june 2005? when he said he did`nt know if he would say people were wrong for not believing in Christ. if you do please tell me where i can find it on the web.

345. Rev. Terron Fleming August 27, 2008 6:52 pm

     TO EVERYONE, LET ME SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT…”Play Misty” if your a christian, u not acting like one…cute little hang ups joke??? Very mature. Im gonna do what joel says and soar like an eagle and don’t peck around with the chixens..remember, chixens can’t soar at the altitude an eagle can…just keep that in mind..

     Do I know the truth..MOST DEFINITLY! I also know that people like “play misty” will come and disceive people from hearing the truth…the truth that joel preaches…jealous of joel?? Never! I am happy for him and their church…I can’t wait until the get the reliance stadium so they can get even more people inside and get saved and get their lives changed….I have nothing to get jealous..I wasn’t boasting…I was stating facts…When I look at joel, we both serve the same god so I know god can bless me in the same way…how do I know how much his house cost??? first of all, its in his first book, secondly, the media talks about it so much becuase they they pastors shouldn’t have such a big house…like benny hinn moved from a 1million to a 10million dollar house..how do i know that…the media…and fyi, joel does boast about his things, he just does it in a way thats looks “humble.” listen more intently to his messages…

     “play misty” i love how you are riping on men of god. myself, joel, copeland…im starting to think ur not a christian or maybe ur a former christian trying to tare down anything thats good..hey, heres a challedge for you “misty”, how about u reveal ur real name, like i have, and u tell me what ur doing so grand for god..oh n it wont be boasting…just say it in a “humble” way like joel does…

     additionally, i noticed u said u no “tongues” are real because the bible says so..hmmm…u must not be a good witness..when people ask me how i know god exists, my answer has NEVER been ONLY, “well, the bible says so and my parents told me”,…my parents also told me santa and the tooth feary exists…so im thinking u havent experience the gift of tongues, or god for urself…ur very critical and are horrible at providing facts…those two videos…ohhhhhhhhh thats the red flag on joel…whatever

     so “play misty” since u love to critizize, i put u on trial a little bit…lets see wat u have to say…as far as when im telling the truth…always and if i know the truth…yes i do…i also know that people like me, joel, copeland, we know that we will be persecuted just because were followers of christ..the bible clearly states that…”play misty” is definitly one of them…i have read through play mistys blogs and its negative, negative, negative. No wonder u dont like joel. Hes positive. You can’t live in victory if your negative misty. He ill be praying for ya becuase u appartmently dont watch joel or kc very much and appartmently dont read my blogs well.

346. Ms Walker August 27, 2008 7:54 pm

     I disagree with everything. He is merely spreading the word of God and doing a wonderful service. He does inspire and in all the presentations that I have seen, he has never asked for money. He doesn’t need to be a ordained “Pastor” or “Minister” to spread God’s word.

     What is wrong with you? Maybe you should tune into Joel’s service on Sunday. It is very motivating and true to God, in which, is our purpose.

     Thanks for your time.

347. play misty ! August 27, 2008 8:22 pm

     What is a chixens? is that some kind of super bird? i`m from the south and i`ve heard of chickens, but i`ll swear i`ve never heard of them there chixens, i`m gona try to locate one tomorrow and fry that dude up and see if they taste like chicken, by the way terron, where can i find one of them chixens? also if you believe what Kenneth copeland says, he said Jesus has a hand that is nine inches wide,stands somewhere around 6 ft.2 in. and weighs about 210 lbs. that`s why i said he has more hang ups than a dry cleaners, you said something about santa claus and you disbelief in him, well if you believe what copeland and hin says, why not give santa a try, he`s probably more accurate than copeland and hin, also if you believe them,i have some land in the sahara desert to sell you, and o did i mention the fishing is great there? you said i said that tounges are real because it`s mentioned in the Bible, well that is how i know they are real, acts 2-38. i did`nt say i had the gift though, then you went off on some tangen, saying i know God is real and it`s not because the Bible says he is, i was`nt even talking about God, i was talking about the gift of tounges, i think you have your facts mixed up with your chixens terron. you said you think i`m not a christian for exposing copeland and hin, wrong again, that is why i`m a believer because i don`t follow their lies and false prophecy statements they give that never come to pass. you said you was`nt jealous of joels home because you had your own, well why don`t you tell all of us what yours cost, maybe joel will see it and congradulate you. i did`nt mean to make you mad terron, i can just see the enamel dust flying off of your teeth, stay away from copeland and hins teaching and you will be light years ahead of them terron.

348. sonny August 27, 2008 8:38 pm

     Ms walker maybe we should`nt tune in either, why would you want to tune in and listen to someone who was ashamed or afraid to confess JESUS on Larry King, i mean he just says over and over again, well you know i just don`t know, well you know i`m very careful about answering your question, well you know i don`t know if i believe that or not. well everybody knows when they are doing wrong, i mean give me a break, you mean you are inspired by someone who says they are a preacher, but has no answer for anything concerning the faith, don`t seem like it takes much to inspire you, terron said he went on Larry king again, i`ve been all over the webb and i did`nt see it, terron said it was taken off the webb, funny the original airing is still there, maybe he got his webb facts mixed up with his chixens.

349. sonny August 27, 2008 9:09 pm

     Ms walker i can tell you things that will make you feel good and inspire you also, here we go, GOD loves you so much that he made his son JESUS become sin for the world, so that we could be saved, the street of heaven is as transparent gold, you notice i said the street, most preachers say the streets, whitch is a plural meaning more than one, but it says in revelations,the street, a singular, meaning only one, now that one street could be a trillion light years long, a light year is the speed that light travels, light travels 186.000 miles per second, so if the street was a trillion light years long, it would take a trillion years to reach the end of GODS street, ain`t that right terron. so see how all these things inspire you and terron, and make you feel good, and i`m not even a preacher. we could go on and on making you and terron feel good, heres you a good BIBLE verse, and the last enemy to go under GODS foot will be death, he will do away with death, and there shall be no more pain and crying, for GOD shall wipe away every tear, see how good that makes us feel, and by the way, thats in the BIBLE, if you don`t believe it ask terron.

350. Rev. Terron Fleming August 27, 2008 10:10 pm

     Your right sonny, ask me b/c i have knowledge. w/o it, people perish…so sonny and misty, to avoid perishing, might want to get in your bible a tad bit more. joels messages will help help u as well…i love how missty avoided each and everyone of my questions..u sounded like a poor old politician…i tested u misty, i gave u a clear chance to state u were a christian n u didnt so u answered my question…once again, the bible talks about whe prophets will come n led people from the truth…misty and sonny is doing exactly that…Joel and lakewood is a bible base church…as far a copeland goes…ill plead the 5th..lol…yes, lol…that means im joking…since everyone takes everything so serious…copeland has his own way of preaching..as far as benny hinn goes…well thats another story…i personllay like his shows guest..but i do question some of the things he does, like pushing people down on his show to make it look like the holy spirit hit them…and his “healings” i think to date still has not been proven..lol..so benny hinn is a mistery…”chixens is chickens..im just to lazy to spell the word out…lol

     misty, your job is not to point out every ones fault…who made u judge? r u perfect? i wish i personllay new u so i can point out ur flaws and see how it makes u feel? is joel perfect? no, but god has chosen him, yep thats right, GOD, the one u “claim” to serve, has chosen joel n co. to lead this generation at this perticular time in history.

     additionally, the bible talks about certian gifts..some to be teachers, pastors, evang…etc…well joels gift isn’t td jakes…if joel were to do that he would make a fool of himself…as far as condeming in his messages, i have heard pletny of things in his messages that condem people…misty and sonny, get used to it, because it is only going to get better for joel and lakewood…

     TO Ms. Walker I agree with u. The great commission does NOT say, “only ordained ministrer and pastors go in to the world and preach the gospel” no its a command for every follower of christ to go into the world to preach the gospel. Let me tell ya, god uses ordinary people to do extraordianry things…god is not limited by our lack of education, money or “ordination”…im not knocking on ordination or degrees but i would take someone thats actually “called” by god rather that someone who can flash a degree around..let me tell ya, not everyone in semanary is called by god to pastor…most of them just want to be one..and thats not a bad thing but a true calling by god is important…just look at joel…no experience, no training, no “ordiantion” just a true calling by god…u think its a coindence his father died the week after joel preached his first sermon..no…john had finished his course here on this earth serviing the lord for over 60 years with sweet dodie and its now joels turn to carry on what his father started of course with the lords help…there is a reason god has given lakewood what they have today…churches need to look at why lakewoods making a difference and why their not…don’t look at lakewoods size…look at how many lives their changing, relationships their restoring and people their bringing to christ in that size…its mezmorizing…

     JOEL OSTEEN FOR PRESIDENT 2012

351. Elizabeth August 28, 2008 5:29 am

     I saw where the terron guy said copeland had his on way of preaching, the poor guy finally said something that made sence, copeland sure does have his way, it`s called nonsence, anyone who would say, and i quote…..he said he measured the heavens with a span, now a span is nine inches,a span is the distance from your little finger to your thumb, well i got out the ruler and measured mine and it is 8 and three quarter inches, ole kenny boys is almost as big as Gods, according to that. td jakes denys the trinity, the triune Godhead, so i would`nt even mention jakes, except to offer up prayer for him, boy that misty can sure wind your clock to tight terron,can`t she? terron are you self taught?, or did joel teach you or what, the reason i ask is because you say some thing`s that make you look dumb, like one post i read where you were really getting into joels house and stuff,you said you had your own, usually people who try to keep up with the big boys, live in an appartment or house trailer, just a thought, don`t get mad.

352. muletrain August 28, 2008 8:53 am

     wow yall still carrying on the debate, look`s like poor ole tyrone is getting the worst of it,i say that in love. but i still wish joel would open the service telling people that they have to believe in Jesus to be saved. don`t be ashamed or scared joel, just tell it like it is, say, yes you have to believe in CHRIST to be saved.

353. The Illustrious Degenerate Monkey August 28, 2008 8:59 am

     I LOVE JOEL OSTEEN BECAUSE HE IS THE SMARTEST GOD ALIVE AND HE TOLD ME TO PRAY FOR A NEW CAR AND GUESS WHAT LOSER???? I GOT A NEW CAR GOD IS THE BEST

354. Rev. Terron Fleming August 28, 2008 11:00 am

     I am guessing elzibeth is new to this “debate”…The joel reference was a complete joke and i don’t need to “keep up” with anybody..im terron, i run my own race..i dont need to compare myself to joel or anyone for that matter…the “i already have it” was stated because misty or someone said i was jealous b/c i didnt havent….i say things that make me look dumb? ur comment about keeping up with the big boys live in appartment or house trailer? hmmm…yea, thats not dumb at all. i noticed ur post at around 5ish so i will forgive your ignorance. next time read clearly what i wrote…

     as for as me getting the heat, hey im a joel supporter….it was gonna happen,…u must be a joel hater too b/c u probably only watched him ONCE and thought he was a robert tilton prospertity preacher. Once again, their is nothing wrong with joel…as far as jakes goes, well he is a dynamic preacher say what u want and his choir is bad…meaning good…lol….

     to multrain…joel does say that in his services…watch joel on daystar, the full hour, unedited version and u will see that he says jesus is the way truth and the light….

     As far as this whole blog goes, is completley lame. We are debating on what joel should and shouldn’t do and say while nothing is being accomplhised. Joel preaches the bible and does a great job at it by the way.

355. mary August 28, 2008 3:55 pm

     The Reverend Wright is an ordianed Minister, is he not? He gets tax breaks and all that. Are you suggesting that because he talks about Jesus and God and all those biblical things…that he is a good example of a Christian Pastor?

356. muletrain August 28, 2008 4:33 pm

     tyrone flemming, JESUS did`nt say i am the way the truth and the light, he said i am the way the truth and the life, not light, pay attention tyrone and learn, Joel is gona get you for misquoating scripture, but you`re a good man tyrone, i don`t care what copeland said about you. t d jakes denies the trinity, the essential christian doctrine that make up the triune GOD head, don`t listen to him tyrone, imagine if Joel knew you were listening to t d jakes. but we will all pray for jakes, maybe he will see the truth before it`s over. by the way tyrone, how`s your chixens doing?

357. EAGLE WINGS August 28, 2008 4:38 pm

     Yall better leave tyrone alone, yall gona worry him into anemia, tyrone sik one of your chixens on um.

358. Shelly August 28, 2008 8:23 pm

     Ha…you people are hysterical! Looks like a lot of people are jealous of this very successful man. Sad isn’t it! You bunch of judges, who are you to judge.
     This man gives a spectacular message and it’s no wonder he is in such demand. He talks about God all the time, obviously you only hear what you want to hear. Get over yourselves!!!!! Envy is a killer, huh? You’re mad because he has done something good for the grace of God and God has rewarded him abundantly. What are you doing good for the world? Better yet, what are you doing for GOD? Sitting around pointing fingers and making everyone else out to be bad is not going to change anything in this world, nor is God going to reward you for it. God bless you!

359. shatteredmen August 29, 2008 12:24 am

     I however did check out Joel Osteen’s website and I am
     very concerned about what I found, or should I say, what I could not
     find.

     http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/Index.aspx

     This website looks more like a business then a ministry. He has
     several events where you can have the honor and the privilege of going
     to hear him speak in places like Washington D.C. as long as you BUY a
     ticket to hear him for $15.00.

     Matthew 10:8
     Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils:
     freely ye have received, freely give.

     Osteen is generally regarded as part of the “prosperity gospel”
     movement, in short name it and claim it. This is NOT Biblical.

     http://www.shatterdmen.com/Name%20It.htm

     About 465 people DIE every day for their faith in Jesus Christ. Many
     others are beaten, sent to prison or have their belongings destroyed
     for their faith in the LORD. I wonder what the Osteen’s would do if
     they have to face this type of persecution. Better yet, what would you
     and I do?

     Jesus told us to store up treasure in Heaven, not here on Earth. He
     never promised us a better life here on Earth but He did promise us
     riches untold when we go HOME.

     Oh yea….the thing I could NOT find on his website…the plan of
     SALVATION even when I used the site search engine and searched
     for “savlation” The Lakewood church site did have one reference to
     the search for “salvation” It was their statement of faith but I doubt
     that if anyone wanted to know how to be saved, they would understand
     it from any place on these websites.

     http://www.shatterdmen.com/first_step.htm

     As a pastor, my first desire it to present the Gospel of Jesus
     Christ. Osteen has about 42,000 people attending “his” church every
     Sunday but I contend that unless he gives the CLEAR GOSPEL, it will
     not matter how many books he writes about “Becoming a Better You” or
     “Position Yourself for Greatness” or “Embrace The Place Where You Are”

     The only way we will do any of those thinkgs is at the FOOT OF THE
     CROSS as we empty ourselves of US and allow the Holy Spirit to flow
     through us and use us as HE sees fit.

360. SONNY August 29, 2008 9:10 am

     This lady Shelly, and others as well, you just can`t seem to grasp it. #1- people that oppose Joel don`t hate or dislike him,# 2- it`s this health and wealth gospel he preaches that true believers don`t agree with, # 3- there is nowhere in the BIBLE that promises health and wealth, # 4- if GOD always healed, nobody would ever die ( it is appointed unto man once to die, and then the judgement ) so this verse of scripture proves that is not true,also the BIBLE says blessed are the poor, for they shall inherit the earth, so the health and wealth preachers, i just gave you two verses of scripture to refute what they teach, GOD does say, i would that my children would prosper and be in health, but there is no guarantee of it. and yes Shelly you can judge, regardless of wheather you believe it or not, see the posting above on judging, the BIBLE says don`t judge falsely, but when you disagree with someone, just b/c he says he is a preacher don`t cut no ice with GOD. the health and wealth preaching, i just gave you verses to prove that`s not true, so when i say these preachers are wrong, they are, and the BIBLE proves it, problem is, to some people these false preachers are like their favorite movie star or singer, they don`t want you to say anything about them, and they don`t won`t them found out about, b/c you have exposed their idol….post 359 has it right, nowhere in the BIBLE did JESUS ever charge for any of his appearances, some of these teachers charge an outlandish fee for their appearance………and salvation is, the BIBLE says believe o the LORD JESUS with all your heart and you will be saved, and stay away from the health and wealth name it and claim it gang, don`t forsake them, but rather pray for them, b/c they need it, maybe they will see the error of their false teachings…..

361. SONNY August 29, 2008 9:15 am

     There is a clip above that the host of this blog., put on here to show what Joel said on Larry King in his defence of the faith, take a look at it Shelly.

362. Ryan Rasmussen August 29, 2008 1:46 pm

     Joel Gross,

     You make some great points. It appears to me you have at least as much knowledge of scripture as Joel Osteen does! So, why are you not “religious?” Read the scriptures you have cited in your tirade against Osteen’s shananagins. Either heaven or hell await you after this life. Hell is a very real place, whether Osteen cares to admit it or not! Repent from your sins and put your faith in Christ for salvation.

     God bless,
     Ryan

363. SONNY August 30, 2008 7:52 am

     On post 317 i noticed terron said there was 50.000 members, well that`s even the more proof the BIBLE is true…..the BIBLE say`s in the last day`s people will fall away from the true faith, they will exchange the truth of GOD for a lie, health and wealth prosperity gospel………I did in all fairness watch Joel osteen last night to see what he would teach…….he said over and over, this is the year of jubilee, where all debts were cancelled, then he continued to tell the croud they were anointed, he even told of a fish that was anointed, in his mind the fish was anointed because the sharks would`nt eat it………I mean Joel is a soft spoken person, no doubt about it, but he did`nt go to siminary, he just makes people feel good about themselves by what he says to them, the BIBLE calls it itching ears………..so just b/c someone makes you feel good, that don`t mean it`s from GOD……..to me it sorta looks like a parent telling their little one a bedtime story, it relaxes the little one and causes them to go to sleep………people want to hear something that makes them feel good,no matter where it`s from………

364. SONNY August 30, 2008 8:08 am

     And Joel continued telling people over and over,this is the year of jubilee, this is your time, this is your time for your healing and ect. some prosperity teachers even go as for as to say, you are still sick b/c your faith is`nt strong enough, you need to make a vow of, in robert tiltons teaching, a 1.000 dollars seems to be the magic number for your healing or whatever it is that you want from GOD. imagine telling some heart broken parent that, when their baby just died. i`ve never heard Joel say anything like that, but some of these people teach that…..but jubilee or no jubilee, there is no set time for a person to receive a healing from GOD………

365. mule train August 30, 2008 8:14 am

     wonder where my buddy tyrone is? have`nt heard from him in awhile, o i know where he is, he`s gone to count his chixens. we will say a prayer for him in his absence.

366. G. Gersten August 31, 2008 3:36 am

     Anyone who does not see Jesus’ teachings in Joels messages if unfamiliar with the teachings of Jesus.

     Christian churches today fall into two categories: Anti-Joel people follow the doctrines of Paul. They are quick to judge and they want to take condemnation away from God. A few honor the teachings of Jesus. They judge not for they know that as they judge, they are judged. Joel falls into the latter category.

     Paul would have you live in fear of eternal retribution. Jesus would have you live at peace – certain that if you do, all of your problems will go away and you will live a full and happy life. Then, by example, you will be able to bring others to the joy – the light of God.

     Why would Christians BLINDLY follow the teachings of the church built upon the teachings of Paul while condemning those who spend their lives trying to live up to the teachings of the church bult upon the teachings of Jesus?

     When Jesus spoke of building a church upon a rock, he did not point to Paul, who hadn’t even been born yet.

     I really wish that those who belong to the Church of Paul were not so ignorant.

367. Marie August 31, 2008 7:20 am

     Hmmm… did any of you hear his sermons or realize how much he helps people globally? Check out his outreaches…

     Also Joel O. is trying to get more new believers and there are more deeper teachings in the fellowships he runs…

     It’s funny how all of you could judge him and not attend a single service or fellowship… aren’t you all doing what you all are complaining about anyways?

     Joel O is reaching so many people and a lot of women who got worn down by men like all of you – legalist, judgemental and non-forgiving.

     Marie

368. sonny August 31, 2008 9:04 am

     Marie you must not realize Paul wrote more than two thirds of the new testament, the BIBLE says Paul was the greatest PREACHER that ever lived, i could hardly believe the negative thing`s you said about Brother Paul….you also don`t understand, the BIBLE says we can judge, read it for yourself, don`t judge falsely it says, but when you look at the clip above of Joel on Larry King, i don`t believe you can make a case with what you are saying here. it`s unbelievable, that you said anti joel, to even think about comparing joel to the APOSTLE PAUL……if you fall for this kind of teaching where Jesus was clearly denied on the King show, then you will be very easy pickings for the anti christ……..you were talking about judging joel and how others were in sin also, and that is true, people are in sin, the difference is, these other people are`nt on national television preaching a false gospel, prosperity, health and wealth, basically, name it and claim it, you can actually speak what you want into your life so these teachers say, you are being dupped, the next time you are going to work, or where ever you are going, and your car won`t start, don`t freat, just speak to it, that`s what you are being taught in reality…….you were talking about joel helping people, and that`s nice, but there are people who will help you, that don`t even believe in GOD. so helping people won`t get it for you….the BIBLE declares that in the day of judgement, people will say LORD, did we not cast out devils in your name?, did we not prophecy and do many good works, then the lord will say, depart from me you who work iniquity, for i neverrrr knewwwww youuuuu. that`s in your BIBLE, and you my friend can read it for yourself….Joel did`nt attend seminary at all, he has no BIBLE training, but what he does have is this….he found something that works, he tells people what they want to hear, the BIBLE calls it itching ears. some 50.000 people listen to a feel good, health and wealth name it and claim it theology, and bless their hearts, they don`t even know they are being led down a blind aley………and yes i would love with all my heart to see joel come to know the truth, and teach what the BIBLE says, not some hoop lah feel good theology….jOEL teaches that JESUS did`nt finish the work on the cross, but rather he had to go to hell, he then took the devil by the nape of the neck and there was a big war in hell, then JESUS showed the devil he was the winner…….funny my BIBLE says, on the cross JESUS told the one thief, this day you will be with me in heaven, then he said father into thy hands i commit my spirit, so it don`t sound like to me he had to go to hell to finish the work his FATHER gave him to do. but i will say this, joel is not the only false teacher out there that teaches this………and maybe joel really don`t know what he is teaching is wrong, he says well i don`t know if people are wrong when they say you don`t have to believe in CHRIST, well pray tell who do you have to put your faith and belief in then? GOD BLESS YOU DEAR…

369. Errol August 31, 2008 9:16 am

     You guys miss the point, Is he helping others to at lease lead a good life, to at lease try to do good. You are the bone heads, you are the antichrist, and I truly did not wat to judge you but it’s the likes of you that treat Christ so badly on the cross. Christ did nothing wrong to be treated that way and neithr has Joel Osteen. Why don’t you live a life that is christ like and stop judging

370. Noel Pasaporte August 31, 2008 10:03 am

     just want to know who’s behind this Criticism. if they are really exposing the truth, why I haven’t seen any person behind this. I just believe to what the Lord Jesus said, “if they’re not against us their with us.” so we don’t have the right to judge or we too will be judged.

371. Cassie August 31, 2008 10:48 am

     Leave all judgements to God. There will be surprises in Heaven. People who we did not expect to be there will be there and vice versa. God does not need us to defend him or his words. He is all powerful and can defend himself.

372. sonny August 31, 2008 3:19 pm

     I`m not gona call you any names errol, but you certainly don`t know scripture, for as antichrist goes,that could be anyone who denys CHRIST, like for instance joel did on Larry King, and you people still follow , joel has no seminary training, you say be CHRIST like, well joel should be CHRIST like and set an example for his followers, not go on LARRY KING and say, he does`nt know if people are wrong for not believing in CHRIST, you people act more like the ostrich with his head in the sand rather than believers, but again joel was appointed by the people who attend there, they wanted someone to tell them what they want to hear, blind leading the blind…….noel say`s don`t judge, well noel the BIBLE says to make a righteous judgement, so you are wrong my friend……….cassie says GOD does`nt need us to defend him, and you are right, GOD needs nothing from anyone, but i assure you, he expects us to acknowledge his only begotten SON, JESUS, not go on some talk show and say, LARRY KING said, well joel when people say you have to believe in CHRIST they are wrong are`nt they? joel said, wellll i don`t know if i believe they are wrong, i mean you People clearly won`t take a stand for JESUS, and there`s no getting around that, if i would`nt stand for JESUS, then i would`nt waste my time saying i`m a believer, b/c thats just what you are doing when you won`t confess JESUS, wasting your time.GOD bless all, and you should`nt call people name`s errol, that`s not christian either………

373. play misty August 31, 2008 3:33 pm

     marie says, you have`nt even been to one of his services, why would you go somewhere and have the teacher say he does`nt know if people are wrong for not believing in CHRIST? why not just go to a night club somewhere, you would be just as well off, i mean you could probably find some drunks that would tell you, yes you have to believe in CHRIST, even they are smart enough to know that…

374. Eagle Wings August 31, 2008 3:40 pm

     yall are wasting your time talking to the lakewood people, they have their own JESUS, not the one of the BIBLE, and they are gona defend their teacher until the end……..they will follow him right into hell, he can turn it around if he wants to, just say to the world, yes you have to believe in CHRIST,and if you don`t believe in CHRIST, then you are lost, i would love to hear him say that, but to date, i have`nt, sad sad sad, and sad for the followers who don`t know any better………GOD BLESS.

375. Denise September 1, 2008 6:27 am

     I think who ever wrote this is really stupid, do you even watch him,I don’t know what channel you are watching, but the one I watch Joel Osteen does talk about GOD, maybe your not really even in to GOD, so you wouldn’t know if someone was talking about him or not, I challenge to believe in GOD I dare you to.

376. church man September 1, 2008 7:07 am

     There is so much money at lakewood church, that joels brother gave up his medical practise as a surgeon to join in, something he went to colledge 8 years for, i mean if he had a true calling from GOD, in my mind he would have went into the minestry to begin with……..But joel does`nt mind for you people knowing about his brother, because it`s on the webb….blind leading the blind, and they all fall in the ditch, these poor people at lakewood, i believe sometime they think joel can walk on water….it`s unbelievable that all of these people put together can`t figure it out, and will follow someone who just tells them a good story, someone who was never even trained to be a preacher, but you would`nt go to an auto mechanic to have dental work done, but you people will fall for this kind of teaching……….all i can say is GOD loves you and so do i, no matter who you are, it`s just heart breaking to see someone led astray, and yes i love joel, i just wish he taught scripture, and not some feel good prosperity gospel………GOD BLESS YOU ALL..

377. church man September 1, 2008 7:32 am

     Denise said she did`nt know what channel we watched, and then she called us a choise name…..denise you did`nt watch the one we watch either, called the Larry King Show, where joel said, well i would`nt say they are wrong, that was his answer when Larry King said, joel when people say you have to believe in CHRIST they are wrong are`nt they? that`s when the, well i would`nt say they are wrong answer came in………I mean g wiz, what kind of JESUS are you people there for, it can`t be the GOD of Israel, the GOD of Abrham, Isac and Jacob, no way, because the GOD of Israel don`t accept anyone that won`t acknoledge his son KING JESUS…and that is the BIBLE truth, wheather you accept it or believe it, every person that`s ever lived, past present and future, will say CHRIST is the only way to GOD the father, and if not, the father will say, depart from me, forrrr iiiii neverrrr knewwww youuuuu, the saddest 8 words we could ever hear, because those 8 words mean it`s all over, eternity in a place called hell, a horrible place that no human would won`t to go, nor would he won`t to see his fellowman there either….GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

378. Elizabeth September 1, 2008 7:54 am

     I have noticed several postings from People that support lakewood, and some are members, they have as one person put it, choice names they call people, it`s very interesting to see people supporting lakewood church, they call people names because you dont`t go along with the false teachings, so just the fact that they call people names, you know they can`t know to much about the BIble and GODS word. show me one place in the BIBLE, lakewood people, where JESUS resorted to calling people names, so i would fix my name calling life style before i would start telling people that a false teaching is acceptable..I say this in love, but you know it`s true..

379. Mary September 1, 2008 8:22 am

     Denise said joel talks about GOD on the channel she watches. nobody said joel did`nt talk about God, i`ve heard him talk about God also. I also heard him say he did`nt know if people were wrong for not believing in Christ on Larry K show, so that`s what people won`t joel to explain to them, if you don`t have to believe in Christ, then why not just turn this huge building into texas biggest night joint. the Bible says to know the truth and not do it is sin, well christ is what the christian faith is all about, so to say, i don`t know if you have to believe in christ, well that`s sin, guess what God says about sin? I have yet to see the first person that is taking up for Lakewood or joel to explain this untruth about not having to believe in christ, they talk about the good things Lakewood does and the nice words they use, but not one, not one, can explain this away, i`m talking about what was said on Larry K show. they talk about everything from joel bashers to people who hate, and joel haters, by the way i have not found one posting on here where anyone said they hated joel, they call people names, but when you ask why joel would`nt confess CHRIST on Larry K show, they drop the question like a hot potato and go in another direction, i guess they are hoping to confuse you and make you forget the real issue, fatttt chancee.

380. Britney September 1, 2008 8:33 am

     I`ve never heard any of the Lakewood people explain it either, why joel said what he said on L King. like u said, they talk about everything but that. just thought joel or the Lakewood could explain this, you can`t, but i`ll watch to see if you try.

381. Lee September 1, 2008 8:37 am

     Joel you have the funds, show America what you are made of, go back on the King show and straighten out your mistake.

382. Joel September 2, 2008 1:30 pm

     Sonny, I think that you are correct in many of your remarks. Joel Osteen has done wrong by everything he says is most important to him: his congregation, the Bible, God and America itself. He needs to take a strong stance delineating his position on important Biblical doctrines or he risks being spat out of God’s mouth for being lukewarm.

383. sonny September 2, 2008 3:02 pm

     yea i have read where it talks about being luke warm, you are neither hot nor cold, don`t really stand for anything, just sorta go along to get along.

384. paula September 4, 2008 12:13 am

     Ita a shame how people make mega money on preaching. shame on you.

385. sonny September 4, 2008 5:17 am

     I think you`re right Paula, i believe in GOD, he is our only hope, but my goodness,a person with the intelect of a gnat should be able to see through this kind of prosperity, health and wealth, name it and claim it theology……..I guess these poor inocent people are at their ropes end and willing to try anything, there has and is, millions of dollars being made on the back of our Lord, i could use money as well as anyone else, but if i have to get it by making a mockery out of GOD, then they can keep it all…..the television is full of these people, by day or night, and they have found that they can get rich, i can just feel a presence about them that is wrong, and when you check scripture behind them, and you watch their lifestyle, then you can know for sure their teaching is not from GOD. http://www.equip.org shows all of the false teachers, i mean if you watch them and pay attention to them closely, you can plainly see by the crazy things they say, and by the crazy things they tell you to do , that they are not from GOD, they need prayer and GOD as much as the next sinner, maybe then and only then, will they see the error of their ways……

386. Toni September 4, 2008 4:34 pm

     My husband and I listen to Joel Osteen and I have read his books. He does speak about the scriptures in his sermons, he never asks for money(donations), and he speaks positive message so that hopefully many people will see the goodness of God and get involved in a church. Have you ever thought that he speaks a positive message to reach people who are not sure about going to church? Possibly trying to get them excited in the word of God? I am a christian, I am saved, and I have been baptised. Joel Osteen brings me a positive message to stay strong in my faith. Let me add a couple things- 1. Do not speak ill of the annointed ones. 2. No weapon formed against me shall ever prosper. 3. Do not judge lest ye be judged. How do you know what is in his heart? If he saves one person in his whole career, that is a blessing. I will continue to believe that Joel Osteen is a good man and that he is reaching out to people in a positive way to bring them closer to God. As for the person who jokes about waiting to hear about Joel Osteen molesting a child, I hope that you believe in God and you pray for forgiveness joking about something so disgusting.

387. jjulie September 5, 2008 9:59 pm

     Never heard of Joel until 2 months ago when a friend told me of him. I went to see him tonight in DC. I am a very devout Catholic. I love to hear the Gospel (Good News) preached in different ways though. I am usually very critical of these mega churches etc. I went to see for myself. My observation was that this man is a humble type. I believe thet he is really touched that God is using him to spread the message of joy, the Gospel! He may not know theology but he has an understanding of the alive and living Jesus. Remember Norman Vincent Peale, The Power of Positive Thinking? I am very pleased to hear this mans message spoken in his way as obviously man thousands of others are also. He is non denominational. I still can go to my own church and listen to him also. If he said anything against my faith I would not listen anymore. I feel that you, whoever you are (I just found you on line) are just what Joel is trying not to behave like. You are the judgemantal one and actually you have less chance at heaven than an athiest who’s heart will be judged by God just as Joel said. Who are you to say who is saved and who isn’t/ I enjoyed Joel and felt comfortable in a place I didn’t think of as a church but just a worship center. . .. My church has a crucifix and crosses galore. He has his own ministry. Leave the guy alone. You slander him. You will be judged. Why are you so angry? let God alone deal with him in His way. I think that by ‘their fruits you will know them’. . .his fruits are good. If they aren’t at some date then we can revisit the issue. Thank you.

388. Jon September 5, 2008 10:15 pm

     How foolish can this be. A whole website dedicated to Slandering Joel Osteen. If you look in the Hebrew,Greek,and Aramaic you come to see that when the scriptures say(Do not Profane the name of G-d)or(Do not swear falsely by the name of G-d) That the word actually means lifestlye. Understanding that our lifestyle can either profane or uplift our G-d. Just as Ezekiel 36 says. He despersed his people for forsaking his name/his lifestyle. The story of the ten virgins some could not enter cause they were not prepared. So how do you become prepared by having a lifestyle that is acceptable before our G-d. Our G-d wants to unite his people not divide his people. Quick question… What would have happen if Y-hshua wasn’t there on the stake with those 2 thieves. Does that mean that both were not going to the world to come. Or does it mean like Daniel when he died they were going to there lot and G-d would determine their heart. Because I am pretty sure that if Y-hshua wasn’t there both would have died. But I am not sure that both would be in hell. Or like Adam and Eve when they ate of the tree G-d says where are you. Is it that G-d didn’t know where adam was or was it that G-d was offering Adam a chance to repent. Bottom line Joel is right no one judges the heart of man accept G-d and he also understands there is a lifestyle associated with salvation. Something most so called Christians don’t understand. If they did this website would not exist. So please Stop babeling were not in Babylon. And oh yea almost everybody in the bible were not scholars.

389. sonny September 6, 2008 6:20 am

     Jon said he has a question, he wants to know what would happen if JESUS was`nt with the two unrepented thieves? I have a question for you also jon, what do you think GOD will say when his only begotten son JESUS was denied, i`m talking about the clip on this site a couple of pages back, where Joel told Larry King he did`nt know if People were wrong for not believing in JESUS, well if you don`t have to believe in JESUS jon, then your question about the cross will be of nonefect………I mean what does it matter what you think or believe if one says to the whole world on national televesion, well i don`t know if i believe people are wrong for not believing on JESUS? jon how can you say someone is judging falsely when joel was on the L King show for the entire nation to see and hear? wake up jon…..

390. sonny September 6, 2008 6:30 am

     Julie said Joel may not know theology, i can`t believe i really read that, well Julie what do you think church is all about? you said you liked the positive thinking, well julie you can get that at a positive thinking rally, you don`t have to attend any church, and i keep seeing post about people hating Joel, you can`t show me one, not one post where i read about people hating joel, just something else people are making up, but they say they are christian, one of the ten commandents is, THOU SHALT NOT LIE, so why are you people doing it? everyone loves joel, including myself, i`m just not gona believe this foolishness where someone goes on national television and wan`t take a stand for JESUS, and neither should you…….GOD BLESS ALL.

391. sonny September 6, 2008 6:39 am

     And i might add the person who`s telling you all of these feel good thing`s, and positive thinking, never went to seminary, he has no BIBLE traing at all, he just tells you people what you want to hear, and you people are ok with that, the BIBLE say`s it like this, the blind leading the blind, and they all fall in the ditch, read it for yourself.

392. Toni September 6, 2008 8:44 am

     I have to say that I don’t believe that Joel Osteen wants to talk always about positive thinking. I believe that God wants his children to prosper through Him. I can’t believe that our God would want us to live a poor, defeated lifestyle. Through Gods blessings He gives to us a way for people to see the goodness God brings to our lives. Christians should and need to set an example of living a good life, believing in Gods goodness and his blessings. That is another way to be a good witness to others. When a misfortune comes our way we are not to feel sorry for ourselves, we have God on our side and He will help us through our trials. Let the people that do not know God see this type of attitiude and perserverance and maybe they will also want to know what God can do for them. When Joel Osteen speaks positive messages of Jesus and God I feel that he is reaching out to people to give them hope and spark their interest in getting in a church. Instead of scaring people away with hell fire and brimstone he his speaking of Gods goodness. I appreciate what Joel does, he brought out a more faithful and devoted person in me and my christian life. I was not in church the way I knew I should have been and now I am. I have rededicatd my life to live the way a good christian should and a lot of it has to with the messages of Joel Osteen. I am thankful for him and his messages of goodness, hope, and faith.

393. robert September 6, 2008 8:49 am

     Jesus’s message was of forgiveness and when given the opportunity to condemn a woman caught in adultery,said plainly I DON’T CONDEMN YOU… HE WHO IS WITHOUT SIN CAST THE FIRST STONE. You certainly are allowed to express your opinions,but what will you say when your time comes to give account for every word? And what if you happen to be totally off base with your harsh words? It is always said that people put others down to make themselves feel better. In Joel’s defense, did you know that he now has refused the $200,000 salary the church wanted to pay him? (due to the great sales of his book) It is not wise to speak evil of anyone, including your enemies whom Jesus said to love. As far as heaven,which one? Paul spoke of the third heaven? My bible states that Jesus became the propitiation of not only our sins but for the sins of the world. He defeated sin and death and took the keys of hell, Do you think anyone stayed there when Jesus preached to the spirits of those who had before time been disobedient?? no, even Judas. Jesus sacrifice Paid for all sin. None withstanding. What people should be focusing on is overcoming all the enemies of which the last one is death. There will be a people who do not taste of death and will be brought into immortality at the manifestation of the sons of God(romans The kingdom of heaven will be fully established on earth where those who overcame will be given right to rule and reign with Christ. It is also stated that no one comes to the Father except the spirit draws him, and for different people it is at different times in their lives. As for your comments about Joel’s Bible training,remember the disciples were common people and uneducated mostly with the exception of Dr. Luke and possibly Tax-collector Matthew. It is said that God will take the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. Most theolgians in my opinoin are stuck in parroting what the were taught in whatever seminary they went to. God is continously revealing inderstanding as time goes on and in my opinion, most of the churchworld is way behind. Most are planning on getting “raptured” out at any moment( which word is not in the bible). It is clear that Jesus will return for a spotless church,and that he is coming to recieve the kingdom. Him must the heavens retain until the restitution of all things. He is not coming to straighten the mess out, that is our job… He is waiting till all his enemies be made his footstool. Until the saints prevail and take the kingdom,we will not see the bliss we have all hoped for. He has given us the power and directives,and we have authority and responsiblity to do our part in changing what is wrong now. The fallacy of “christians aren’t perfect, just forgiven” is a mindset that must be removed. We are told to be perfect and walk as Jesus walked and to let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,who thought it not robbery to be equal with God…We are his offspring and must grow up into the head as he renews our minds. Robert

394. sonny September 6, 2008 10:25 am

     Well i`m in no way speaking of the woman at the well, and the reason people could`nt lift a stone to cast it is b/c they were guilty of the same, now let`s talk about me, i have never said, never believed, that you don`t have to believe on JESUS to be saved, so i can according to the BIBLE, call it what it is, SIN against GOD, for not confessing his only begotten SON,JESUS, so your stance at the well won`t hold water, first you have to believe JESUS is the only way, and as a preacher, tell the world, yes you have to believe on jesus, and if you don`t do this, then you are already condemed, and the woman at the well won`t matter, Joel says nice things to people, no doubt about it, but those nice things won`t save you, joel can`t even save himself, let alone me or anyone else, play the clip above and just be honest before GOD, then come back and tell me Joel said on Larry King, well i would`nt say people are wrong for not believing. the truth is the truth and a lie is a lie…….I`m in no wise saying saying joel is the antichrist,people even thought Ronald Wilson Reagan was the antichrist b/c there is six letters in each of his names- 666—but if you think Joel can inspire you, wait until you hear the antichrist talk, he will have the answer for everything, and people will swear he is the real deal b/c of the things he will do, the BIBLE says he will be able to call fire from the heavens, so i would`nt get all pumped up by the way someone inspires me or makes me feel, b/c you are missing the whole point of the Gospel of JESUS. i, along with alot of other people, would love to see Joel go back on Larry King, and say to the world, you know people i made the biggest mistake of my life when i was on the king show and told the world that i would`nt say people are wrong for not believing on JESUS, he is teaching alot of people his doctrine, and maybe he is scared to go back on the king show and admitt he was wrong, b/c people might say, well now he has to clear up a mistake, well i wonder if he knows what he is talking about at all, wellllll i don`t know if i want to listen anymore, i mean there is mega dollars in that lakewood building, so much that his brother gave up his medical practise as a surgeon to join the team, as i said earlier, my parents took me to Church, they did`nt send me, and even as a small child i knew you had to believe on JESUS to be saved, even as a small child, with all due respect, what kind of GOD are you people serving, you are following a person that don`t know if you have to believe on JESUS, by the way, if my son was a preacher, i would tell him the same thing, so it`s not pick on Joel week………..the blind leading the blind, and they all fall in the ditch, so says the BIBLE, so i hate to tell you, but you are following a blind leader, you are driving blind folded, means the same thing. GOD BLESS ALL.

395. carolyn September 7, 2008 8:04 am

     I wonder if Joel denounced Jesus to the whole world like John lennon of the beatles once did, would people still follow him? in reality that`s what he did on the clip i watched on this site, and there is no denying it, or getting around it. watch and make your own mind up about it, just be honest, and don`t give the judging rap.

396. John M September 7, 2008 5:33 pm

     Our family got saved listoning to Joel Osteen. You have way to much time on your hand to write all that you did. You just another very jealous person

397. Angela September 7, 2008 5:46 pm

     Wow. I didn’t know all of this…thanks for helping the uninformed!

398. sonny September 7, 2008 6:54 pm

     well i don`t work, and i have lot`s of time on hand also, but i have sence enough to disearn the truth from a falseity, i`m not saying joel is a bad person, that `s not the issue, the issue is,he said he did`nt know if you had to believe in CHRIST, so if you were saved by listening to joel, makes one wonder what you were saved from…..

399. sonny September 7, 2008 7:07 pm

     Also john, the christian faith is not about jealousy, just the oppisite, to Angela, well it`s not rocket sience here, and i say that in Love Angela, all you have to do is watch the Larry King clip on this site, then after a person hears and sees the clip, then they can still say joel preaches the truth, then the GOD they serve is clearly not the GOD of the christian faith, the GOD of Israel, the GOD of Abrham Isac and Jacob, no possible way can they serve this GOD, and listen to a teacher that tells them that he does`nt know if you have to believe in Christ, you have got lot` and lot`s to learn about the Bible and it`s truth john, and i say that with respect and love, i`m just sorry you and so many others are being dupped.

400. Rev. Terron Fleming September 7, 2008 10:27 pm

     Well the Revs back..lol..I have been praying for Sunny all week. “Dupped?” Nobodys getting dupped. Joel is preaching the gospel and fullfilling the great commission….We should all be supporting our brother in christ…matter of fact, we should be each others biggest fans/cheerleaders….I mean, we all serve the same god right???? well we should be rooting for each other to keep on keeping on n continue to further gods kingdoom….

401. mule train September 8, 2008 6:18 am

     man, i see tyrone made it back from counting his chixens, boy you must have a bunch of chixens to count to stay gone for a week………tyrone said we all serve the same GOD, tyrone are you sure you`re a rev, b/c when you say we all serve the same GOD, it makes me look at you out of the corner of my eye, budah,islam is not a real god, so the true Christian faith can`t go there as you suppose……..tyrone you must have had your judgement affected from all them chixens you had to count, but i could understand how it could affect your judgement, to say nothing for all the eye strain, b/c some of them chixens are so small it`s hard to see them…now go back and read the BIble some more tyrone, then come back and tell me how true christians can serve the same GOD. buda is in the ground and has long since became a worm banquet, besides buda never claimed to be God… and i still don`t care what k. copeland said about you, you are alright tyrone………..GOD BLESS ALL…..

402. mule train September 8, 2008 8:59 pm

     Tyrone left one post, and then took off again, he must be having trouble with his chixens again, he may be gone for a week again.

403. David September 9, 2008 8:09 am

     I am shocked beyond belief at the People on this site who follow joel o. i played the clip above three times, and joel clearly said he did`nt know if people had to believe on JESUS CHRIST, WOW, then who do you have to believe on? the BIBLE says in the end days, people would believe a lie rather than the truth. they exchanged the truth of GOD for a lie, and people who follow this feel good teaching are living proof of this. i read where many said they were saved from his teaching, first of all according to the BIBLE, joel is`nt saved himself, so how is it possible you could be saved from listening to a person that needs to be saved himself? the BIBLE makes it crystal clear, JESUS said if you will not confess me before men, neither will i confess you before my FATHER and his Angels. well when joel said on Larry K show he did`nt know if people were wrong for not believing on JESUS CHRIST, i mean g wiz, are you serving joel or JESUS? it`s a slap on the face to GOD to follow this kind of teaching, you say it was horrible the way JESUS was put on the cross, well following this kind of teaching, in reality you help put him there. and i know, people all over this site say judge not. don`t judge a person for something you have done yourself, if you tell people you don`t know if you have to believe on Jesus, then yes, you are`nt supposed to say a word, it`s called righteous judging, and if you dissagre, you are calling GOD a liar, because he says you can. i even read a post on here from a guy named flemming who says he is a revern, the guy was supposed to learn the first day of BIBLE school, that yes, you must believe on JESUS to be saved. the BIBLE says believe on the LORD JESUS and you will be saved, pretty simple, so why do you people listen to someone tell you other wise? it`s bad, but it seems the only passage people know is, judge not, and they have that teaching completely out of contex. it`s all about joel says nice thing`s, or he makes people feel good, or he don`t preach about hell, well the truth is, Jesus spoke twice as much about hell as he did heaven, because he wants us to know it is a real place, so we should want a preacher that will preach about hell rather than just trying to make us feel good. i`m no perfect christian, but i will tell you this, you will never hear me say i don`t know if you have to believe on JESUS, because with my last breath i will tell you, yes you have to believe on JESUS. i read on here about this revern talking about the 50.000 members, well 50.000 members compared with a world population of over 6 billion people don`t seem like much to me, just a drop in the bucket, a hand full. so you should`nt be impressed with the few that go there, and by comparison it is a few. people can choose the path they take, but personally i would`nt follow anyone who did`nt know if you had to believe on JESUS, and i would`nt care if the people numbered 50 million who attended church there.

404. Robert September 9, 2008 1:38 pm

     Hello……Did Jesus pay the penalty for sin or not? It is really simple folks. Every bible says that he became the propitation of not only our sins, but also for the sins of the world. Also Jesus is the saviour of all men, especially those who believe….What was the writer saying here? We have been freed from the curse of sin and death and should no longer continue in it..If people choose to sin( which most do) they will reap the consequences of it. We are admonished to flee from sin and even the appearance of evil. In 1st john there are sayings like “he who sins is of the devil” ‘He who is born of God ceases from sin.” There should be a growing up and a conquering of sin and Love that covers, not blatantly expose and find fault. Do some fasting and praying people,spend some quality time alone and listen to the spirit of God and not just pour out your complaints and wish list. He is prepared to show us things in advance and believe me, the new things that will be revealed will not come through the most reveared theologians. It will be the foolish that will confound the wise. Every man has a place and a job to do,Joel Osteen is doing his job and he is only to be judged by his maker. God is fully able to change his mind and opinions on his ministry style if he so chooses. It might be interesting if you were to find out you are opposing God. It is clear to me that we are to judge nothing before the appointed time. There will be a time to judge for those who have overcome all things, but only after much transformation and a severe processing which many are not called to do. In Revelation you see degrees of closeness to the Father. The Jews have a saying of seventh heaven which I do believe there are. Paul talked of a third heaven. Are there any progressive thinkers left? The message of get ready to die and go to heaven was for previous generations, Now we must prepare to live and see the restoration of all things and put on immortality. That means no death. All of the promises in Revelation are to the overcomers. Lay aside every weight and sin that so easily besets you, including speaking evil of any man which is not becoming to any decent human. It is sad to see anyone resort to putting anyone down in an attempt to make oneself feel usefull or better. What good is accomplished in that???? Blessed are the peacemakers…………Robert

405. David September 9, 2008 3:18 pm

     Robert are to saying, yes or no? please give only one answer….are you trying to say it was ok when joel said to the world?, well i don`t know if people are wrong for not believing on JESUS CHRIST, he said that on the LARRY KING show to the nation…..the clip is on this site when he made that statement, so nobody can deny it…..

406. mule train September 9, 2008 4:54 pm

     Tyrone whatau think about all this?, this big debate. i know you`re sitting at the pc, b/c it`s night time, and you can`t count your chixens in the dark.

407. mule train September 9, 2008 5:14 pm

     we done made tyrone so mad he won`t even post anymore,or either he`s gone to visit joel…

408. sonny September 9, 2008 6:59 pm

     mr robert said joel was doing his job, mr robert you seem like a kind and caring person, i could tell by the words you use that you are a sincere person, but please explain how joel is doing his job and full filling his commission to the faith, when he says he don`t know if people are wrong for not believing on JESUS, the only begotten son of GOD the FATHER, without this belief we will all surely perish….joel is a soft spoken person, and i have nothing at all against joel, or for that matter anyone, it`s the teaching, it just in no wise squares with the BIBLE……and yes i`m all for loving one another, because that was one of the things JESUS told us to do, as JESUS acended into heaven, he said you are to Love one another as i have Loved you….i may not understand everyone, but i still Love them, without exception, but i will not condone what JESUS condems. GOD BLESS.

409. Bobby September 11, 2008 6:09 am

     You know there are all kind of ways to get people`s money, now don`t get me wrong, i do believe there is a here after, and i believe i will stand before an all knowing, fair and righteous GOD at the judgement seat of CHRIST, but these people with big mega churches, and it`s a shame that people can`t see through them, they turn over their hard earned money–money–money,over to someone who has everything that these givers would like to have, million dollar homes, the most expensive vehicles, the finest foods, clothes, lavish vacations, and people are ok with that and will support it, when it has nothing to do with serving GOD, you have people that are the victim of a credit card scam, or someone bought on the black market information about you that will allow them to get into your accounts, but here is someone that looks you right in the face, and in reality has access to your money, and you don`t even put up a fight, he smiles and tells you nice things, and it`s as the saying goes, the enemy whips you without ever firing a shot, i mean it`s not a sin to check behind these people, and its not rocket science to play the clip on this site and see and hear for your own self, this person would`nt say you have to believe on JESUS to be saved, more over he did`nt even tell you folks he was wrong, he just says its not his business to get involved in these conversations, well he`s your leader, he`s is supposed to protect his flock but he won`t, he just tells you nice thing`s, and basically says, now everyone is saved and going to heaven, now let`s all go home. if you people like financing someone`s life style, then go for it, but if you want true teaching, find you some ole country preacher who stands for JESUS, then you will be on the right path.

410. katie September 11, 2008 7:20 pm

     It is ridiculous to me that someone other than God Himself feels that they can condemn anyone for anything. You can continue to quote these passages, and I suggest quoting one on judging other people. Only God knows each and every person for who they are on the INSIDE. Only God knows what each person has been through, done wrong, done right. We as humans don’t own the right to put others in their places. Christianity is a huge religion, but if you open your eyes to the world you will see that there are other customs, beliefs and religions that people have grown up with since they were small children. And just as Chrisitanity is your faith, there are others around the world who have grown up with their own faiths. No person can say which one is right or wrong. There are many teachings of God and many forms of Him througout the world.

     One thing all Gods have in common is love. You can have the condemnation, the sins… all the negative. But every God ensures love. Joel Osteen takes away all of the nonsense and places his focus on love and forgivness and fresh starts. Negativity, sins and condemnation will always be there, but for a person to affect so many people on a POSITIVE level is a huge achievment, because what we need is more love, more hope and more faith. In gaining these postive traits within ourselves, it helps many people lead better lives, make better choices and accept God (whoever He is to them) into their lives.

     If your focus is the Word of the Bible, then read it, and take away your focus from Joel Osteen who obviously makes you have a negative reaction. Remember, try not to judge. We all walk in different shoes and have walked different paths.

411. Bobby September 11, 2008 8:44 pm

     Katie you are wrong according to the Bible, we are to judge, the Bible says we will judge the angels, and it is true, only GOD knows the heart, you were talking about other religions, theres only one, the christian faith, the GOD of Abraham, Isac and Jacob, all others are false, if joel is fulfilling the commision of christianity, then i will ask you the same question i`ve asked others, and when i asked, you did`nt hear from them again, they had no answer…….the question i would ask you katie is this, if joel is doing the will of GOD, why then on the Lary King show did joel say?,he did`nt know if people were wrong for not believeing in JESUS CHRIST, I will say this to you katie, and i say it with love and respect……JESUS was GOD in human flesh, he walked among his creation for 33 year`s, during his earthly sojourn, so to say, well i don`t know if people are wrong for not believeing on Jesus, wheather you know it or not, you just told GOD you did`nt know if you have to believe on him or not, well katie if you don`t have to believe on GOD, then tell me dear, who should we believe on……….that`s all people are saying, there`s no hate or dissrespect for anyone, and people don`t hate joel, they would just like to see him stop teaching the nonsence, and when you make a statement to the world dear, and you say you don`t know if you have to believe, then you have to call it what it is, pure simple nonsence, nonsence b/c you don`t confees the living GOD, the one who spoke and the world lept into existence. so the BIBLE says not to judge falsely katie, play the clip on this webbsite where little brother joel said to the world on Larry King, he did`nt know if people were wrong for not believeing on GOD……then come back and explain it to me and others on this site. the real truth is, katie you nor anyone else that has lived, past, present or future can dissmiss the fact, YES YOU DO HAVE TO BELIEVE ON GOD, GOD BLESS EVERYONE ON THIS SITE……..

412. sonny September 11, 2008 8:54 pm

     Katie i noticed you said nobody has the right to condemn anyone, well truth is Katie, nobody on this Earth can condemn anyone, only GOD has that power, but we can judge someone when they make an untrue statement saying they don`t know if people are wrong for not believeing on JESUS, it`s called righteous judging, and GOD expects us to do it, it`s part of your walk with GOD, the lover of your soul, JESUS was fully GOD and fully Man……..

413. Truth Preacher September 12, 2008 10:01 am

     Joel Osteen is probably one of the greatest motivational speakers, all I can say is that when the Lord comes back i don’t want to be anywhere near him. If you slap God’s name on your self help video and call it a religion man you’re in to getting whats coming to you thats for sure. I am youth pastor of a very small church and i wouldn’t have it any other way. Don’t get me wrong we’re growing but you don’t need a stadium sized church to find God, in our lil 100-120 seater church the power of God moves like non other place, yeah we preach the Bible, yes there is a way to heaven, and yes there is a hell, and our ministry does have the call of God in their life. I’m just life Joel i’m a part of my daddy’s church, but not my physical daddy, when i gave up law school for bible school ppl asked why? i said i must be about my father’s business (words of Jesus), that’s what its all about

414. Concerned Believer September 12, 2008 11:50 am

     Joel Osteen’s book has helped me get closer to Christ.

     I think you should spend your time going after Hollywood.

     You should be very careful about slandering leaders (not false teachers).

     The problem with Christianity today is not Joel Osteen, but the fraternity of right-wing, white supremist males who don’t really care about Jesus Christ or His teachings.

     They just care about supporting Israel at any cost (which is completely unBiblical)

     They’re the true false teachers who make money off the sheep.

415. Bobby September 12, 2008 4:09 pm

     well dear i don`t have anything to do with hollywood, i agree they are corrupt, i don`t know what sex, male or female, has to do with anything, you touched on the subject about suprimist males, but give me your answer, you believe it is ok for someone in the ministry to say, they don`t know if people are wrong for not believing on GOD, actually he said christ JESUS, whitch is GOD, JESUS was fully GOD and fully man, he cloaked himself in human flesh and dwelt among his creation for 33 years…….but anyway you believe it is ok for a person in the ministry to say they don`t know if people are wrong for not believing on GOD for why?, and i`m not slandering anyone, that`s not what the christian faith is about, i just told the truth, refute it and prove me wrong dear, truth is you can`t, neither can anyone else, and why a person would won`t to listen to anything a person says, when they won`t tell you that you must believe on GOD, is a mystery to me

416. william September 12, 2008 4:17 pm

     Concerned believer, how is it possible for someone to get you closer to CHRIST when they say they don`t even know if you have to believe on him to start with?, just wondering about that one, sure don`t make sence.

417. katie September 12, 2008 5:09 pm

     Each person has their own beliefs. I absolutely believe in a higher power and only about two and a half years ago did I allow Christ back into my life. Listen, I was raised Catholic and I was taught to FEAR God, FEAR the minor sins we make in everyday life and FEAR my own God given destiny. Truth be told, I don’t believe in the Catholic Church anymore and I did open up to Christianity and The Word and the Bible. No, I am not a perfect person, no one will ever be perfect, but I do know that when someone can speak to your heart, and the message is a positive one that it can change your life. It can get you back into a community church, it can help you be stronger in everyday life and be kinder to people. What is wrong with Joel Osteen putting a positive message out there? Sometimes people need to know that they’re not rejected by God and that they need to repent and offer forgivness to others and their own selves. And they need to set a goal each and every day to be a better person.

     Look at Joel Osteen’s background. Most know where the man came from. He is/was uneducated, was poor, spoken of himself as shy and reserved, but yes he can speak in front of a large crowd. He chokes on Larry King live and becomes a victum of attack. Answering Larry King’s questions is a tricky thing to do because the man pretty much twists words around like a lawyer and makes people say things they really don’t mean portray in their words. I could never imagine having to speak to someone like that who danced around my answers and threw a million questins at me just to make me sweat in my seet in front of a million viewers. So what that he’s making money? He’s earned it from all of the people who give to him to keep that LARGE Church around just because he conveys a powerful message. Shallow? Maybe. But I’m not going to judge him. Heck, if I could get my dreams to come true, I would have the good life too as most people would. I think many people just knock him because he is successful, he’s a good speaker and he has a positive message.

     I truly don’t believe that Joel Osteen was trying to say that Athiests and Muslims don’t go hell. He just didn’t want to outright condemn anyone on natinonal television.

418. susan September 12, 2008 7:28 pm

     so you`re saying Larry King made Joel say what he said, Larry made me do it….reminds me of Flip Wilson, the devil made me do it…….I don`t see where Larry K twisted joel or any other guest arm…..no matter what they say to you, just stay focused and say yes Larry, yes world, yes people, if you don`t have to believe on JESUS, then spend your time doing things other than going to church, because you are just wasting your time, wasting your time, that is if you don`t believe on JESUS..i listened to what you said, i watched the clip and i did`nt see or hear any trick questions such as an attorney would ask as you supposed…Larry King is not in the business to put words in someones mouth, or to trip them up with some trick questions, i mean that don`t even make sense, Larry don`t cross examine anyone….but i am glad you have a new life, and i hope you grow stronger everyday.

419. Hershey September 13, 2008 6:42 am

     I think the doctrine at lakewood needs some serious fixing, people are told such outlandish stories, i mean the prosperity teacher tells you what you want to hear..Preachers say some pretty far out things, like John Hagee who said the Katrina storm in New Orleans was from GOD because as he put it, the city had a certain level of sin that had to be dealt with, so GOD dealt with it. now look at the state of Texas, Ike is cleaning house, i wonder if he will say that about the state where he resides, i mean there are good GOD fearing people in New Orleans, and for some mental midget to say that about New Orleans, and now his state is being whipped up on, i mean go figure…you people if you got any sense, you better keep your focus on what joel is telling you also, because i promise you he is all wet.by the way the web page on hagee saying this is at the first page of the osteen thing, these people are money hungry, they want, and are taking it, from unsuspecting victims, that`s how they live like kings and queens, and you people are just the poor little worker bees.

420. Paul September 13, 2008 12:07 pm

     I wonder if all of these people at lakewood would give me some money if i told them something that would make them feel good….i promise i will make you feel better than joel, if yall will share some of them coins with me.

421. MULE TRAIN September 15, 2008 4:21 pm

     wonder where tyrone got off to? tyrone must have gathered up all of his chixens and left town, or went to higher ground, hope you are safe in the texas storm tyrone, GOD BLESS……..

422. Gracious September 20, 2008 7:38 am

     Let me say this about Joel Osteen. He does not thump the bible over your head. I am tired of going to churches where you leave more miserable then when you went in. I know I am a sinner, I don’t need to be reminded of it everytime I go to church. What Joel does for me is to focus on the positve things of my faith, to help use my faith in every day life. To stop being negative and walk around with doomsday attitude, to see that our God is a great God and that my job is to show the rest of the world our God through my actions, attitude…I look at his congregation and amazed at the different ethnicity, all sitting together, praising, worshipping God. If God has given him the monies to spread the Gospel which Joel does all over the world, if God is using Joel to bring those who do not know him to His kingdom, those who have been shunned by other Christians who sit on their thrones of judgement, then I pray for his ministry. At my last church, there was no way I could have brought 2 of my friends because they just did not fit the mold and they would have been judged because of their lifestyles, but I have them watch Joel because they LISTEN to him and feel comfortable in what they are receiving and as a result have come to want to know more about our God. That to me is the more important issue. I also encourage them to watch Charles Stanley. The point is, God uses different strokes for different folks and Joel’s message is one of Hope, Peace and Joy and he does speak about God and of the enemy.

423. Lynn September 20, 2008 7:37 pm

     I just want to say that i believe that Joel Osteen is a great TV
     TELEVANGELST.i watch his TV show every Sunday morning
     you can tell that God is right there on the stage with him. maybe he didn’t go too school.BUT
     WHEN HE HAS GOD STANDING THERE BESIDE HIM HE DOESN’T NEED SCHOOL BECAUSE HE HAS THE BEST TEACHER THERE IS. i HAVE GOTTEN ALOT OUT OF HIS SERMONS. IT ALWAYS SEEMS TO BE JUST WHAT I NEED. God IS USING Joel & his wife in a mighty way. and if you know any thing about the bible states anything that Jesus had a teacher when god calls you to do something he will give you what you need. I think he is the best
     And i have never ever heard him ask for money at the end of his sermon.Joel keep up the good work. i hear that he will be coming To Atlanta GA soon and i surely want to be there

424. James Edward Taylor September 21, 2008 5:46 am

     As is stated in The Book of Revelation, [And I'm paraphrasing here, as I believe the Bible to be the best corrupted, misused, and used in misguided ways to decieve followers of those who use it seemingly for purposes of good, but mostly towards "Service to Self"], and most popular, after The Koran, The Talmud, The Vedic Texts, ect. books in modern history, so I don’t keep it anywhere near me, I keep instead a deep faith that all is just as it is, in Gods Perfection] “In the End Times, there shall arise “False Prophets and Charlatans” among you, and they will lead thee astray from the “True Path”… Leeding their Flock (sheeple, as in people) to the slaughter.

     The “True Path” starts and ends from within and in nature, for that is where one really finds God, and the Christ Light, and in the end true salvation.

     And he’s, in my humble opinion, noteably one of them. Amasing great Wealth from his followers for himself, and Noteriety through his products and media coverage for himself, yet not really giving anything of value back, like suggesting his dis-affected members in TX move to a safer locale, to his members.

     Truly yours,

     James Edward Taylor
     Santa Monica, CA

425. Irma September 21, 2008 9:17 am

     Joel has been one of my favorites to watch. Joel quotes from the Bible in his sermons. Who are we to judge Joel? The Lord our God said we must tythe 10% of our earnings. The tytheing is to let God know that we love him, that we’re in obedience in his Word and as all know money can cause people to judge, to hurt and to become so evolved around the power of it. We are obeying the Lord when we tythe. As in ANY ministry, whether it’s being broadcasted or actually going every Sunday or what not, we take a chance. If we hear the Words of our Lord in the sermon and it comes from the Bible, who are we to judge. Did everyone forget that if we judge others, we too will be judged. If any ministry is fake, vengeance is not ours but that of the Lord. Believe in God’s Word, obey his Word.

426. john gilbert September 21, 2008 6:29 pm

     to the writer of the blog/site and the majority of responders, do yourself a favor and get professional psychiatric help. cognitive behavior therapy is a good choice. life is too short to spend it with such serious emotional illness.

427. Deidre September 22, 2008 2:11 am

     Ok, I can tell by the way you talk you are such a pessimist. You are free to think whatever you want. What I feel he is doing is not just trying to help us get through the day but apply the word of god to your every day life. So what if we start thinking more positive and that we can change our lives. There is truth to what he says, If you are more positive you will be rewarded in life. Yes he does need some money to keep the church going but that is not all he talks about. That’s why he doesn’t even ask for money in his broadcasts… Hello!!! He is not trying to haggle anyone he is just to talking about how we can live a more fulfilling life every day, and make us notice how christ does work in our life every day, even in the most suddle ways. There are worst things in the world than a preacher trying to get us to be motivated and think positively. I think you want to assume the worst in people and that is part of your problem, open your mind, then maybe you too, could start living a more fulfilling life. Showing us how , believing in christ helps us in our every day life is not a bad thing!!!!!!!! You take Joel so out of context it is ridiculous.

428. Bobby September 22, 2008 6:28 am

     I say this with love and respect to everyone on this earth, yes we all struggle with our everyday life and sin that comes our way, but i`ve yet to see one posting where osteen followers can explain, how is it that you can cll yourself a preacher, but yet you go on one of the biggest talk shows on television ( LARRY KING ) and tell the whole world, well i would`nt say people are wrong for not believing on JESUS CHRIST….I mean here is someone who has denied the SON OF GOD, JESUS said if you will not confess me before men, neither shall i confess you before my FATHER and his ANGELS……….. so it don`t make any difference how good little joel or anyone else for that matter,makes you feel, you are listening to an untruth…..joel is a good motivational speaker, he get`s people pumped up, but hardly anyone i personally would pay any mind to, in fact those of you who openly confess JESUS, could teach little joel a few things…..when you deny JESUS, nothing else you say means anything, b/c GOD don`t hear it anyway….if little joel went on tv and told the world, yes you have to believe on JESUS, and stop teaching that JESUS had to go to hell and have this big grudge match with the devil to finish the work on the cross, on the cross, JESUS said, Father into thy hands i commit my spirit, not Father into hell i commit my spirit…….joel, along with alot of other prosperity teachers teach, yes you can speak your own world, money, wealth, health, into being with words, it`s rediculous, the BIBLE don`t teach that. the reason people fall for this kind of teaching is b/c they have`nt studied their BIBLE, they just believe what someone tells them, they are fooled into believing just because someone has the title, preacher,revern, or whatever they call themselves……GOD BLESS ALL.

429. Bobby September 23, 2008 6:52 am

     You know when you speak of the christian faith it can get really rough with the topics you have to take into acount,this is something you have`tn heard from any platform or preacher,i guess they are afraid to go there, but the following is the truth, if GOD is who he says he is, and i believe he is who he says he is…but talking about sin, even though ben ladden had the twin towers knocked down in new york and many people died that day, did you know that GOD still loves him, it`s laddens sin that he hates, not the person, and the way you can know this is true, you look at the life of saul, who later became the apostle paul, when he had the damascus road conversion, saul sought out christian people, and he and his companions that traveled with him would kill christians everwhere they found them……but the BIBLE says the apostle paul was the greatest preacher who ever lived, often preaching until day break, how would you like to have a preacher like that? but the fact is, ladden killed a lot of people that were`nt christians at all, but saul ( the apostle paul ) killed christians everywhere, so if GOD, who is no respector of any people, whitch the BIBLE says he is, if he would forgive paul, then he would certainly love to see ladden stop his maddness and come to faith in JESUS CHRIST, GOD and the Angels would rejoice at his conversion, and my heart goes out to those dear people who lost their lives on 911. i think of them often and what they went through on that horrible day. not that what i said reflects on joel, but people who know what the BIBLE teaches would love to see joel confess JESUS to the whole world, not say he does`nt know if people are wrong for not believing on JESUS, well if you don`t confess JESUS, then why even waste your time going to church? GOD BLESS……

430. ms September 23, 2008 10:24 am

     Hi
     I understand what you are saying about this man but I think that you are missing the point.

     This man makes people feel better. religious or not, you must agree that religion is in the mind. You can do nothing with out faith. Wether this faith is in the lord or in the good things to come that Olsteen preaches, it helps people to believe that their life has purpose. it helps people have faith.
     just my two cents

431. mule train September 23, 2008 7:21 pm

     Tyrone flemming where are you man? i`m getting worried about you, i thought one of your chixens might have eaten you up…..what do you think about all of this tyrone? give us some feed back tyrone.

432. cheri p September 25, 2008 5:18 am

     Everyone has their own thoughts on how everyone should spend their money, raise their children, what neighborhood to live in, etc. To me you guys are the ones insecure. Joel Olsteen is talking about staying positive, avoiding crap like your web-site. Just because he does not put up a cross on the wall or not mention the bible enough or who and who does not go to heaven, like you think you know…does not give people the right to bring a postitive role model down. Who cares at what bank he got a loan from, who cares about what building he decided to use…(if you haven’t noticed it’s packed every sunday) I swear…you people are so freakin jealous. To actually spend time creating a web-site just to trash someone you don’t even know seems like maybe YOU need the life and to find out why you are so misearble that to feel one ounce of good about yourself you must try and change peoples mind on really the facts of being a good person, having a positive attitude. We should put little worms like you way far back in our thoughts. Really dude, get a life and try NOW to become a good person and stop getting your pleasure off of running others down.

433. susan September 25, 2008 3:55 pm

     Cheri p calls joel a role model, must not take much to be a leader for you, like Bobby says, you can talk all day, but you can`t give an answer as to why would a person follow joel when he went on LARRY KING SHOW and said he did`nt know if people were wrong for not believing on jesus,of course you have to believe on JESUS, YES YES YES, YOU DO…you talk about people selecting their neighborhood, being jealous of joels money, i don`t see any post where people talk about joels money, but money and neighborhoods have nothing to do with following JESUS, i will watch to see how you explain to the rest of us lesser likes, why and how can you claim to be a preacher of the gospell,GODS WORD,and tell people you don`t know if people are wrong for not beleiving on JESUS? you obviously have no clue what the BIBLE is even about, but i pray that someday before your life is over, you will study your BIBLE and learn the truth, and pray that joel learns as well..God bless you dear…

434. Lanette September 26, 2008 8:21 am

     You have spent a great deal of time and energy researching and working hard to discredit Joel Osteen and judging other prominent pastors. What positive things are you doing yourself for the kingdom? I understand that Christians are sometimes taken advantage of by their leaders, who are human and subject to corruption and sin, but that doesn’t negate their good works. Nor is it our responsibility to police every single minister who preaches the gospel. God takes care of that! They will have to ultimately answer to Him for their misgivings. You must never have listened to a Joel Osteen sermon because he does talk about God. And he must be careful how he words things in the media because he’s under scrutiny not just by other Christians but by unbelievers as well who are looking for an excuse to reject God. I believe that you should take a hard look at yourself and your own motives for creating this forum!! May God penetrate your heart!

435. Rebecca September 26, 2008 12:31 pm

     I agree with Lanette, I listen to Joel every Sunday morning b-4 going to my on church. I am of the catholic faith and was always taught not to judge other people only God can judges us. He said to Larry King that he didn’t know if the non christians would go to heaven or not because it up to God. and never once in one of his services did I hear him ask for money and to go see him speak is only $10.00. I thank God every day for Joel Osteen because he got me back on the right track and helped me to realize that God does love me no matter what I have done. God has been working miracles in life since I started practicing what Joel says. Never listen to enemy