Examining the First Nine Questions: A Summary of Claims and Arguments (Questions 1-9)

Jonathan Shuttlesworth, in his book and YouTube blog 35 Questions for Those Who Hate the Prosperity Gospel, presents a series of arguments aimed at defending financial prosperity as a core biblical principle. Throughout the first nine questions we’ve explored, Shuttlesworth employs a mix of rhetorical strategies, selective biblical citations, and provocative statements to make his case.

I acknowledge that Jonathan Shuttlesworth’s ministry reaches many people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. However, his abrupt claims as a financial prosperity advocate risk misleading the very people he seeks to reach. Outside of America, in countries where poverty is a real issue, such messages—rooted in selective scriptures rather than the whole counsel of God’s Word— cause harm to vulnerable people groups. Those who view him as a “spiritual father” and believe he speaks for God may face disillusionment when these teachings fail to materialize in their lives. Case studies have shown that while the hope offered by advocates like Shuttlesworth benefits some, the imbalance in their teachings has caused significant harm to others.

This summary blog will analyze the key themes in Shuttlesworth’s arguments, examine his approach's strengths and weaknesses, and assess whether his claims align with sound biblical interpretation.

1. Shuttlesworth’s Core Argument

Shuttlesworth’s overarching thesis is that Scripture endorses financial prosperity integral to God’s will for believers. He frequently frames opposition to the prosperity gospel as ignorance or hostility toward God’s blessings.

Key claims include:

• Poverty is depicted in Scripture as a curse, not a blessing.

• God rewards obedience with material abundance.

• Overflow is a consistent Kingdom principle.

• Biblical figures like Elijah and Elisha demonstrate God’s provision in ways that align with prosperity theology.

• Critiques of prosperity theology stem from a misunderstanding of Scripture or adherence to “religious doctrine.”

  
  

2. Misleading Proofs and Selective Interpretations

While Shuttlesworth raises valid points about God’s provision and generosity, many of his arguments rely on misleading applications of Scripture. Here are some examples:

Selective Use of Deuteronomy 28

Shuttlesworth cites Deuteronomy 28 to argue that poverty is a curse but overlooks the historical and covenantal context. The blessings and curses in this chapter are tied to Israel’s obedience under the Mosaic covenant, not a universal promise of wealth for all believers.

Overemphasis on Miracles

Shuttlesworth highlights miracles like the widow’s oil (2 Kings 4:1-7) and Elijah’s provision by ravens (1 Kings 17:4-6) as evidence of material abundance. However, these events address specific needs in extraordinary circumstances, not ongoing wealth. His interpretation risks reducing these miracles to proof texts for prosperity theology.

Symbolism Misapplied

In discussing Psalm 23:5 (“my cup overflows”), Shuttlesworth equates the overflow with material wealth. Yet the psalm emphasizes spiritual abundance and God’s care, not a guarantee of financial surplus.

Simplistic Definitions

Shuttlesworth often presents prosperity in narrow financial terms, disregarding the broader biblical definition, which includes peace with God, spiritual well-being, and resource stewardship.

3. The Rhetorical Strategies in His Arguments

To assert his points, Shuttlesworth frequently employs provocative language, rhetorical questions, and anecdotal examples.

Provocative Statements

He often frames critics of the prosperity gospel as “stupid” or “brain-damaged,” creating an adversarial tone that detracts from constructive theological dialogue.

Unsubstantiated Assumptions

Shuttlesworth makes sweeping claims, such as:

• God has never given poverty as a reward.

• All miracles of provision demonstrate financial abundance.

• Critics of prosperity theology are ignorant of Scripture.

  
  

These assertions are presented as self-evident truths but lack careful exegetical support.

4. Evaluating His Approach

Strengths

• Shuttlesworth correctly highlights God’s generosity and ability to provide for His people.

• He emphasizes the biblical call to meet the needs of others, which aligns with the principle of stewardship.

• His focus on God’s supernatural power to provide is a needed reminder of divine sufficiency.

  
  

Weaknesses

• Misinterpretation of Scripture: Many of his examples are taken out of context or applied in ways that overemphasize material wealth.

• Reductionist Theology: His arguments often equate prosperity with financial success, neglecting biblical prosperity's spiritual and relational aspects.

• Adversarial Rhetoric: His tone alienates critics rather than inviting thoughtful dialogue.

  
  

5. A Balanced Biblical Perspective

Prosperity in Scripture

The Bible describes prosperity as holistic, encompassing spiritual, physical, and relational well-being. Financial provision is part of God’s blessings but is never the focus.

• Spiritual Prosperity: Peace with God is the foundation of true prosperity (Rom. 5:1).

• Material Provision: God meets our needs according to His purposes (Phil. 4:19).

• Stewardship and Generosity: Wealth, when given, is a tool for serving others and advancing God’s Kingdom (2 Cor. 9:6-8).

  
  

Critiques of Prosperity Theology

In Playing with Holy Fire, Dr. Michael Brown warns that prosperity theology often distorts the gospel by emphasizing wealth over spiritual growth. Costi Hinn, in God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel, critiques the “transactional” view of faith promoted by some prosperity preachers.

Conclusion: Assessing Shuttlesworth’s Arguments

Shuttlesworth’s defence of financial prosperity raises important questions about God’s provision and blessings, but his arguments often oversimplify complex biblical truths. By selectively applying Scripture and equating prosperity with financial wealth, he distorts the broader message of the gospel to bolster his case for financial prosperity. I believe we don’t need to distort any Scripture to affirm the blessings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which are universal and accessible to all people groups.

True prosperity is found in a life rooted in God’s presence, characterized by peace, spiritual growth, and the ability to serve others. As we engage with Shuttlesworth’s claims, we must let Scripture guide us toward a balanced theology that honours God’s generosity without reducing it to materialism.

Author: Evg. Bradley Sliedrecht BCL, M.Div. ✝️📖✨

(PhD Student)