I have a close relative that never misses Joel Osteen's Television Ministry. My relative used to be an Agnostic but now confesses Jesus as his Savior. This is good and bad. The good part is by watching Joel Osteen this relative accepted Christ. The bad part is, he is still living with his girlfriend but has a living wife. He and his live-in girlfriend both confess that they have received Christ as their Savior. They continue to watch Joel Olsteens TV Ministry without fail, yet neither has any conviction to stop living together.

If Joel has preached on the Ten Commandments specifically the "Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery" commandment they missed that one. I realize no one is perfect and I am far from perfection yet there are many sins I have been convicted of and have prayed for help in changing. If a person is truly saved isn't the evidence a changed life that is if "you are born again", (regenerated) by the Holy Spirit ??

When a person is truly Saved and has received Christ into their hearts a change of heart occurs that is reflected in ones actions. If there is No change or desire to change, then there is no repentance. If there is no repentance then this may be a sign of a false conversion. I realize change and sanctification is a slower process for some more than others but there should be some fruit of a changed life/lifestyle.

I am not God, therefore I cannot judge who is Saved or Lost however, my concern for this relative is real because he has severe Medical problems and was near death a few times but thankfully recovered. It is alarming that he believes that he is on his way to Heaven but I fear that he may be deceived and end up in the opposite place by continuing in this adulterous relationship. He has no conviction and has admitted he does not plan on going back to his wife, getting a divorce or marrying the live in girlfriend. We are not to judge another or declare who is saved when the person has made a confession for Christ. However, Jesus gave us a prerequisite for knowing a true follower. Jesus said we will know them by their fruit (actions).

The true heart of a person is revealed by their fruit (actions). Jesus said a good tree cannot bare bad fruit and vice versa. How is it possible to faithfully sit under Christian teaching for years and continue to not be pricked by the Holy Spirit and even feel comfortable/ justified in the continuation of major transgressions (adultery). So many are living in willful disobedience contrary to what God has instructed in His Word and are even declaring that God loves them and Heaven is there home, regardless to how they live, how they hurt others or what they do.

The Attributes of God are plainly described in the Bible. God is love but God at the same time is also the God of Justice. Just as an earthly Judge gives penalties for crimes against humanity, how much more so of Almighty God who will Judge in righteousness and truth because He reads into the hearts of everyone with perfection and 100% accuracy.

Jesus is described as having a dual nature and according to the Bible He is a Lion and a Lamb depending on what side of the fence we are on, we will experience one or the other on the day we all stand before Him. A sin-sick soul needs Gods love but love is not all pleasure. Sometimes love must be tough-love. A child that is never corrected is tomorrows criminal in the making.

Anyone sick with a disease who has ever gone under the Surgeon's knife expects to experience pain while recovering. What I am trying to say here is that not all pain or displeasure is harmful.
No matter how good candy taste if you eat nothing but candy 24/7 you will become fat, malnourished, get sick and even die because around the clock junk food has zero nutritional value. I even like to eat Cotton candy when I want a special treat. For the majority of us (Not diabetic) there is No harm in Ice Cream or Candy. The problem is if Ice-cream and Candy is your only source of food. In comparison I like to watch Joel's TV Ministry every now and then but the majority of time I need those (unsweet) vegetables, meat and potato's to survive. A child does not understand that they cannot live on candy and ice-cream but being children they would if a parent was bad enough to allow them to.

Another concern with Joel's teaching is he gives out many promises from God to all in general but for the Christian the Bible promises are for the Saved. Meant for those who are Saved and the Redeemed by the Atoning Blood Sacrifice of Jesus at the Cross. Here lies the confusion- some people are led to assume they are entitled to something Not promised to them.

I like listen to him and Antony Robbins and Think and Grow rich.

My mom never misses his show. She even has several of his books. From time to time she gives small donations to his ministry. She's told me several times that he's a very good preacher. I think that he resembles Jerry Seinfeld.

He is ashamed of the Bible

I love Joel Osteen!!! I think that he is a inspirational speaker, and just because he don't use his bible alot in his messaenge doesnt mean he is not GOD sent, or a true man of GOD. When I feel all else has fell, I can listen to Joel and he will say something to show me different. People criticize him, for what, because during his messenge he don't have you going to 5 different books of the bible. I feel that he was sent by GOD to do just what he is doing. Keep doing Joel what GOD has guided you to do, and continue to be obedient to his vision.

Mr Osteen needs to crack our Fathers Word open from time to time.

Great motivator but needs to feed his sheep.

It would be nice if he actually preached from the bible that he holds up at the beginning of his "show"! Please read all of 1 Timothy Chapter 6 for more insight into Osteen and most of the other TV celebrity preachers! May God Truly Bless You And Open Your (Spiritual) Eyes!

The thing I like best about Joel Osteen is that he is giving everybody with the last name Swaggart a continuous case of diarrhea and acid reflux. They just can't get over that someone else is King of the Electronic Church. Joel is more honest and nicer than anybody named Swaggart ever has been, but his doctrine may be weak. But that's show-biz, and an unregulated industry!

For a brief two years, I put my law career on hold, wrote a book, and began motivational speaking. Quickly learned 2% of those guys claim 98% of the business. I refused to darken the door of any church for money. Took two years to run out of resources and go back to law.

Joel read the same books as I. Dude is a MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER. His flock feels good and fills stadiums because he is WELL STUDIED, only not in the Word...more like the word of Maxwell and Robbins.

He had a few good years for The Dodgers in the 60's- I wasn't around then, but I think he was one of those guys that whiffed a lot of batters and opponents had a very low batting average against him... but in spite of that he was still around .500 in his career despite some fine years. Oh wait, never mind that was Claude Osteen. This kid looks like Tim Allen, the Home Improvement star that makes all those shitty films for kids.

The Body of Christ needs more of Joel's boldness. Too many are sitting by letting others do it all. I have been greatly inspired by Joel's television ministry and am growing in my walk with Jesus through it. Rather than to critisize the man of God, we might better do the work of Him who sent us as the days are growing shorter. The hour cometh.

I have been given the oppurtunity many times to become a member of a church through out my life. I had even watched Joel on television and wasn't impressed at the time. At the age of 17 and pregnant I walked into Lakewood church when John Osteen was alive and was moved just by being in the church. Words can not describe the feeling I left with, but I left saved and knowing God loved me no matter what. I am now 41 and I regret the fact that I didn't stay with the Lord as I should have. But 2 monthes ago I walked back into Lakewood and that same overwelming feeling of God's love washed back over me and that day I gave my life back to the Lord. I live just 2 hours away from Lakewood and every sunday I am there before 8am. And on Wednesday nights I have the live feed of the service I watch on my computer. What is seen on television is not even close to what goes on in that church. The praise and worship from the sound of the choir, the passionate and God filled word that Victoria teaches is always amazing and from the Bible. And Joel's way of preaching is very warm and loving and along with scripture he teaches in a positive way, that makes a person feel good. There is nothing wrong with that. I have learned to read the Bible since being in Lakewood. God's word is so much more than "you're going to hell if you don't abide" It is love, it is happiness, it is a smile. And that's the way Lakewood teaches. Everyone has their opinion and that's why I am sharing mine. Unless you have been there to experience the ENTIRE service don't be so quick to judge. That is not our place, as it says in the Bible. John Osteen and Joel Osteen both had/have different ways of teaching, and with the help of Victoria and the amazing choir, Lakewood is a wonderful appointed, annointed and approved church by God and I can say I am so blessed to be a part of.

S. Mosley
Kountze, Texas

I am sure Joe is a good person and means well but I don't consider him anyone should listen to. His main mission is growing the biggest church and tickling your ears with a pep talk. He doesn't teach the bible and likely most of his audience is not saved. You never hear about the gospel (death, burial, resurrection), appropriating it by faith, being saved, justification, sanctification, turning form sin, blood, hell, how to get your name in the book of life, what it means to be in Christ, etc., etc. Again, I am sure he is a nice person and means well but he shouldn't be preaching on the TV. I feel he is leading too many people to hell because he is not teaching the gospel. He should go into motivational speaking in the corporate world. He would be awesome at that.

Just another misguided nut!

seems like a nice guy, but needs to teach from the Bible. I think I've seen him carry one... Joel please read it.
God Bless

Okay if you want motivation to get out and make some money and feel good about yourself, not so much for leading others to salvation through the Word.

Prosperity evangelists and does not preach the full truth from the Bible

he is bringing many new people to Christianity but needs to emphasize more of his efforts on the human condition as to not teach a false gospel. we are sinners and need Jesus Christ for redemption. this is an essential teaching of a follower of Christ and the Christian religion.

I don't know about anyone else, but he has the fakest smile I've ever seen.

For starters, it's a 2000 year old text people, he has figured out a way to manipulate the masses using religion just as the old Roman Catholic church did a few hundred years ago. And he has been very successful (financially and with power over people). Try to define meaning in your own life instead of listening to crap other people make up (like Joel here), no wait that would be difficult and require a lot of self-reflecting and effort. Plus you'd have to turn the TV off! Or if you do believe in God, why not just pray directly to Him and get your advice that way? Because you can't. And if you think you can, please don't listen when He tells you to kill your children (as many others have). And what of the rest of the world's religions? All claiming to be the "right one".

We all want to find purpose in life, that is why every society that has ever existed has created religion in some way. But purpose in life is all around you in the beauty of the world that just.... exists. The beauty that would not exist if it wasn't for the evils that exist as well. Sorry if that is a little to yin and yang for you (but they have religion in the east as well).

Osteen is a very slick preacher to be avoided. His teachings and his dad's teachings do not mesh at all. Most Baptist and Assembly of God church members dislike Osteen very much. He is all fluff no real substance to his messages. Just a feelgood message that does not change lives.

Joel Osteen has his own unique God-given style and Ministry. His Spiritual gifting is in exhortation & encouragement. There are many variations (variety) of personalities, temperaments and styles in the body of Christ. I may not choose this church for my own because I like Bible teaching of the 4 Gospels more in-depth and detailed. However, God is using this man's Ministry to encourage, help, console and attract many people. I have seen friends and family open their hearts to Christ because of this Ministry. The Scripture says "with loving kindness have (God) I drawn them." The word also said "one man plants, another waters but God gives the increase". Not every method and style is for everyone. If you like another style of preaching/teaching/worship that is your preference as long as God is getting all the Glory & the main focus is on God. I say praise the Lord! Often those that are harsh toward him have not studied his ministry. As far as Joel saying on Larry King that he did not know if a Jew, Buddhist, etc would go to Heaven. He is right we don't know who God will save and just maybe they will come to know the love, repentance and salvation Jesus offers through this wonderful Ministry! By the way his Worship team and Music is simple awesome. I would suggest whoever can should check out the CD "Lakewood Live" with the anointed music of Israel Houghton.

Joel Osteen is a false prophet. He violates several passages of scripture in his operation (e.g., First Timothy 6:1-6). If I could give him a 0 I would. The words that myself and others speak about Joel Osteen are in the spirit of and exactly like those Jesus spake of the Pharisees (see Matthew 23), like those Paul spoke of Hymenaeus and Alexander (see 1 Timothy 1:19-20), and like those John spoke of Diotrephes (3 John).

Those who defend Osteen cannot, nor do they every, provide any valid reasons (that are fully scripture supported) for doing so, but that's par for the course (as satan is not divided against himself). None of the supporters show evidence of having fulfilled God's call to "try the spirit whether it be of God" and don't appear to care that Osteen marks himself as a false prophets by always "speaking of the world" (both references can be found in 1 John 4). Some even cite Osteen's testimony that he's not a biblical scholar. That's just an excuse: 1) you don't have to be a scholar to preach the word (2 Timothy 4:2); 2) those in ministry are commanded to study to show themselves approved unto God; 3) those in ministry are commanded to seek God to find out what to speak to His people AND are supposed to speak as moved by the Holy Ghost -- Osteen does neither (by his own admission) and 4) Osteen is (indirectly) a confessed manpleaser -- and those who seek or are willing to please men and women are not serving God (Galatians 1:10).

Many here have cited Paul's declaration from God from Galatians which lets us know that anyone who preaches a gospel that's different from the apostles is accursed -- and that's regardless of how uplifting they are, how nice they are, or how good they might make you feel. As Jesus said (for those who follow Osteen), "...if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch." As 1 Timothy 6 says . . . from such withdraw thyself. Those who fail to withdraw.....

According to Deuteronomy 13, God allows false prophets to operate to prove people -- whether they love Him with all their heart or not. To embrace a false prophet (regardless of who they are) is an act of hatred towards God.

He says he believes the Bible but not much scripture is taught. It's a feel good prosperity gospel which is a false gospel.

I've seen Joel preach in person. I have watched him working with people in his church, and have a sense that this man is no false anything. He will tell you his self, he's no Biblical Scholar. All of you who say negative things about him, would be better trying to start your own ministry to see if anyone at all would follow you. SO sad that you must say such damaging and unloving things about a man who, regardless of is imperfectsion, I putting the God's name in front of a lot of folks throughout the world. If you would crucify someone so kind as this man, you have crucified before. You are the wicked in the face of a man who's good intentions you would destroy. Are you sure Joel is being used of the Devil - or was it YOU through your very nasty postings. It's ok - cause if God could harden Pharo's heart, He can do the same for those of you He'd like to keep away from a real child of God whom you'd just as soon do harm.

He is an excellent public speaker, inspirational teacher-has a large audience-Since he's non-demonational he is able to reach most people by encouraging people to move forward, don't give up on God, that he has a promise or answer for every problem, only those who are sick need a physician.

Joel Osteen teaches the prosperity message which is total false doctrine.  He is to be avoided at all costs.  His teachings are totally unbiblical.

not like any of the others he's as good as his father if not better God truly has his hand on Joel's shoulder

He reminds me of the salesman I bought my last used car from. Nice as can be but then you gotta wonder.

The lady in my life is a corporate trainer/teacher and she watches this guy for clues and lessons concerning lecturing in front of large groups. As for me, I'd rank him higher on a list concerning white guys who wear "Coming to Ameria"-esque "Soul Glo" in their hair. . . Really. . .what's the difference between one guy reading from a man-made book from another? The quality of air-conditioning in the church?

Joel Osteen is a false preacher. He may be a very good motivational speaker but has no room behind a pulpit. Denying Christ publicly and distorting the Gospel to please the audience is a his teaching. But don't come here and say he preaches the Gospel because he doesn't. As a matter of fact, he refuses to even display the cross with the excuse that it may offend his members. Satan has a good servant in him.

Update: funny, he starts sounding more and more like a spiritual Hitler. God have mercy on him. And his victims.

Rarely have I seen a man so sincere, trying to do what the Lord has moved him to do, be so beaten down by so many. How do you know what is in this man's heart. I dare say that any of you critics have listened to more than one or two of his messages, but speak as though you have heard them all. This man has done far more good than any of you who criticize him. Joel closes each and every week with a message to every person listening to "Get involved with a good bible based church". If people listen and do get involved, isn't the good and bad side of being a Christian going to be taught by their pastor at the church they get involved with? So what if Joel is more of a motivational speaker than a fire and brimstone preacher?!?! He has probably gottn thousands and thousands of people that were on the fence to get off their behinds and get out and find "a good Bible based church". Mission accomplished. What have you critics done in comparison?

Sorry to hear about the skirmish Victoria Osteen suffered on the plane with the air hostess, but if those privileged characters want to know what suffering REALLY is like, why don't they try flying coach for a change? Poor people have to work their guts out for months to earn enough cash for an economy seat, and even then they might get bumped off if the plane's overbooked. Nothing like feeling like a bug squashed in a can of sardines, with nowhere to lay your weary head, and getting your circulation cut off from limited leg room. And she'd LOVE the cabin class cuisine, if she doesn't mind peeling the plastic off her own cordon bleu! Sorry, but I find it hard to find much sympathy for preachers who get rich off money people work REAL jobs to earn in order to keep them up in the style to which they've become accustomed!

This guy scares me. He is a used car salesmen. I saw an interview with him one time and he was asked why he rarely mentions Jesus and he more or less said, people were tired of hearing old stories and wanted to hear about things relevant today. Since when does a true Christian find the teachings of the Bible out of date? I was offended and I knew then to watch out for this guy. He, as someone as already said, is a great motivational speaker but I have a feeling if you follow this guy you may be in for a rude awakening.

 Joel is not preaching the gospel of Christ.  We as Christians have every right to stand

in judgement when false teaching is being taught to believers. There is no sound doctrine

being taught by Joel...Beware he is another one being decieved by the principles of

darkness!

joel is only preaching 1/2 truths on the gospel, which amounts to untruths....both sides have to be presented not just the feel good side...Christianity is work...and your not always going to feel good about some decisions you make. The truth of the gospel is we are all sinners saved by grace....and for a preacher to say he doesn't like to use the word "sinner" and "that there may another way to heaven but thru Jesus" is just plain crazy. IF there were other ways to eternity why would God send His Son to die a painful death on a cross if we could get there thru some other method or religion? To be a Christian is to believe wholeheartedly in the message of the Cross and not deny it no matter who is interviewing you...Christian or Jew.

I think Joel Osteen is Great! he doesn't ask for money constantly like most people do, he asks one time..and one time only. His books are fabulous! They have helped alot. I don't see anything New Age, so some people say. There is nothing wrong with being positive. But there is something wrong with being negative. It's a shame to read alot of the garbage down below, however I've been saved almost all my life, & honestly...all the people that has even had the nerve to say they are a christian & write something negative about a man of God, should read their bible a little more, as God speaks against that. If you do nnot have the gift of discernment..then you really shouldn't say anything.

  ....and a salesman who will sell you the things you just want to hear.

Keith Green.

Joel Osteen has nothing but good intent. I am tired of people bashing him because of his positive attitude. Maybe people are tired of being beaten down and need an uplifting word. He quotes scripture all the time in his messages so I don't know what these legalists are referring to here.

  When I got out of new age and then saw Joel Osteen on TV, my first thought was "new age has infiltrated the church!!"  I feel the same way about several other popular teachers.

I have nothing personally against this man.  He seems like a really nice, likeable guy.  It gives me no pleasure to say these things about him. 

If you are looking for good, solid biblical counsel, stay away from him!  J.O. is a perfect example of how a person can seem like a Christian, hold a bible in his hand, but yet preach new age "positivism" - not the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Joel Osteen: Jester in the Courts of the Lord

http://www.sliceoflaodicea.com/?p=494

and:

http://rr-bb.com/forumdisplay.php?f=9

UPDATE 4: So many "Christians" say they are "discerning Christians." So if a person disagrees with you I guess they are not discerning... Interesting!

UPDATE 3:

My pastor told a story Sunday in church of someone who came up to a preacher and said, "I do not like your style of preaching." The preacher said "I guess I do not either. What are you doing for the Lord? How are you witnessing? Are you preaching"? The person said "No." The preacher said "I think I'll keep doing what I'm doing".

awful

Wake up people and smell the cool aid! All it takes are some encouragingand distracting words to get a group of morons to buy into this crap.

UPDATE: No disrespect to Osteen supporters, but I have a problem with the comment, "Osteen has decided to take another approach." The verse that immediately came to mind was Galatians 1:9. "If anyone preach any other gospel...let him be accursed." Who's decision was it, Osteen's or God's? We know by reading the book of Acts and most of the new testament that Christians were persecuted to no end, and are STILL going through the same things in other countries today. Why isn't persecution--something that Jesus and the apostles said that ALL who live godly will have to endure--happening in THIS country? Because we're comfortable, because we believe that we have a right to prosperity and easy living. Because most of our preachers are teaching a gospel of a 24-hour, 365 day a year windfall of blessings. Instead of storing up treasures in heaven, we want our "Best Life Now." A gospel of selling out to your flesh, of enduring hardships and going through trials, and of telling people that Jesus is the only way to salvation definitely doesn't sell, and doesn't make people feel very good. But as Paul said, "It is written, I lay in Zion a stumblingstone, a rock of offence: and whosoever believes in Him shall not be ashamed." That's why the apostles were killed. They didn't bring sunshine, they didn't preach about constant blue skies.

People love this man so much because he doesn't preach much about repentance and denying yourself. With him, it's all about God's favor and God being our pal and wanting us to feel good and wanting us to never fail or go thru hardships. That's not the gospel of Jesus, that's the false gospel of prosperity and living a life for Jesus without pain, which will NOT happen to those who are truly sold out to the Lord. Joel is a false teacher, period.

Pastor Osteen has a very calming peace about him. I feel very comfortable when I am listening to him. He is an amazing pastor and teacher.

He is a monster behind a smile.

i try to listen to him as often as i can, he does make me feel good about myself,an gives me a brighterday.he is a very good speaker he will tell you to look inside yourself it is up to you.

This man never claimed to be a preacher. He's been very open about his God-given gift of encouraging people and giving them hope.