Joel Osteen: The rise of a pop culture icon

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Osteen's rise to prominence

Joel Osteen is an American pastor, televangelist, author, and motivational speaker. he is also a controversial celebrity because of the message he teaches. Many people enjoy hearing his words of hope and positivity but no reports of anyone's life being changed because they followed Oteen's advice have been revealed.

Joel was born on March 5, 1963, in Houston, Texas, and is the son of John Osteen, the founder of Lakewood Church. Joel succeeded his father as the senior pastor of Lakewood Church after his father's death in 1999. Joel has admitted that he was not called to pastor but took on the role because he felt he had to.

Speaking positive does not translate into prosperity

Lakewood Church, located in Houston, Texas, is one of the largest and most prominent megachurches in the United States. Under Joel Osteen's leadership, the church's congregation grew significantly, and it became known for its positive, uplifting messages and emphasis on personal growth and motivation. Success in life is what Osteen teaches which does a disservice to the many faithful who have lived through hard times.

Lakewood Church started as a small congregation, but under Joel Osteen's leadership, it grew exponentially in size and influence. The church moved into the former Compaq Center in Houston, a sports arena with a seating capacity of tens of thousands, which allowed them to accommodate their large congregation.

Joel rises to prominence

Joel Osteen gained immense popularity for his positive and uplifting messages, often referred to as the "prosperity gospel." His preaching style emphasizes personal empowerment, positive thinking, and living a life of faith, positivity, and success. He often encourages people to believe in themselves, overcome obstacles, and trust in God's plan for their lives.

Osteen's sermons and messages have reached a wide audience through his weekly televised services, which are broadcast in over 100 countries. In addition to his ministry, he has written several best-selling books, including "Your Best Life Now," "Become a Better You," "It's Your Time," and others, which further promote his motivational and self-improvement teachings.

While Joel Osteen has garnered a significant following and is beloved by many, he has also faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding the prosperity gospel doctrine. Critics argue that this teaching can place too much emphasis on material wealth and prosperity, and some have questioned the authenticity of Osteen's message and his theology.

Critics in the midst

Joel Osteen's preaching style is characterized by his optimistic and encouraging messages, often referred to as the "prosperity gospel" or the "positive confession" movement. He teaches that faith, positive thinking, and speaking positive words can lead to success and blessings in various aspects of life, including finances, health, and relationships.

Critics argue that the prosperity gospel promotes a message of materialism and can be misleading or exploitative. In addition to his work as a pastor, Osteen has authored several best-selling books, including "Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential," "Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day," and "The Power of I Am: Two Words That Will Change Your Life Today."

These books often focus on themes of self-improvement, and positioning one's self for a prosperous life. Joel Osteen has become a multi-millionaire because of his message and his books. There have not however been any of his followers to state that they became healthier and wealthy by spending their money on his products and this is why he has so many critics.