Contextualizing the Prosperity Gospel in Germany: A Theological Assessment

Abstract

The prosperity gospel is growing in its influence across evangelical denominational lines in Germany. Various forms of contextualizing the promise of health and wealth require careful theological interpretation. A multi-case study of three German church plants investigates their interpretation of prosperity teaching from an evangelical perspective. While the promise of physical wellbeing as a Christian birthright must be rejected as syncretism, prosperity teaching does not necessarily imply the abandonment of evangelical affirmations about conversion and transformative discipleship.