Prosper Even As Your Soul Prospers

Proponents of the prosperity message intimate that Peter urged Christians to prosper even as their soul prospers and therefore prosperity must be a necessity for all Christians. But the question is, was Peter only talking about material prosperity? If so, then it is obvious that Peter himself never prospered for the records never show or mention that he amassed tremendous wealth and prosperity. For a fact, he like the other apostles was described as a mere ordinary fellow.

Interestingly, Peter prospered abundantly. How so? He prospered in the sense that he grew in the grace of God through Christ and understood the sacred secrets and the enlightening purpose of God and therefore urged fellow Christians to also prosper in that light and direction. Peter regarded these spiritual enlightenment and riches more superior to material advantages.

In 1 Timothy 6:6-10, Paul writes “Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

What advice therefore does Apostle Paul give? He continues “But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses” (1 Timothy 6: 11,12)

With few lines and precise words, Paul shows Christians the real riches in Christ- godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness which would help them to acquire the true blessing and reward of their calling, the eternal life.

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