Lecture Notes: Interview with Paul and Emily on Word of Faith Movement and Joyce Meyer Ministries

Introduction

• The interview is hosted by Doreen, featuring guests Paul and Emily, a couple with experience in the Word of Faith Movement.
• Paul worked for Joyce Meyer Ministries; Emily was raised Catholic, and both have since left the ministry due to theological differences.
• The couple shares their journey from following the Word of Faith movement to recognizing its unbiblical teachings.

Background

Paul's Background

• Raised in a Word of Faith Church known for prosperity theology.
• Worked at Joyce Meyer Ministries in a well-paying job with benefits.
• Begun questioning the alignment of Joyce Meyer’s teachings with Scripture.

Emily's Background

• Raised Catholic, later exposed to Word of Faith through Paul.
• Initially attracted to the promise of a better life through prosperity teachings.
• Left her job at the ministry after having a child.

Word of Faith Theology

• Emphasizes prosperity and blessings through faith and right actions.
• Often involves claims of receiving special revelations from God.
• Spiritual manipulation is common, discouraging questioning of leaders.
• The term "anointed" is used to insulate leaders from criticism.

Turning Points

Paul's Experience

• Friend questioned Paul's desire for material wealth (e.g., Corvette) leading to self-reflection.
• Introduced to reformed theological teachings by John Piper.

Emily's Experience

• Influenced by Paul’s findings and discussions at home.
• Shocked by Paul Washer’s “Shocking Youth Message,” which challenged their beliefs.
• Realized the manipulative nature of the teachings about giving and receiving.

Exit from Joyce Meyer Ministries

• Paul compiled a document outlining theological discrepancies and presented it to the ministry.
• Concluded that staying in the ministry conflicted with their new understanding of the Gospel.
• Ultimately left the ministry and found a church with reformed theological views.

Experiences at Joyce Meyer Ministries

• Worked in administrative roles, witnessing the inner workings of the ministry.
• Participated in offerings and observed the ministry’s financial and spiritual practices.
• Highlighted the manipulation of teachings about prosperity and sowing seeds for blessings.

Critiques of Joyce Meyer and Word of Faith

• Joyce Meyer known for wealth and prosperity preaching.
• Concerns about her teachings, such as Jesus being born again in hell.
• Criticisms of using Scripture out of context to support prosperity theology.
• Concerns about the true Gospel message being overshadowed by prosperity promises.

Conclusion

• Paul and Emily emphasize the importance of examining teachings against Scripture.
• Encouragement to question experiences and traditions that don’t align with the Bible.
• Their journey highlights the danger of prosperity teachings and the importance of sound theology.