Joel Osteen is truly unique. He is
- Pastor of America’s largest congregation;
- Preacher of happiness (above all else); and an
- Accidental popular author and preacher (“inherited” his dad’s congregation and has no formal training – e.g. seminary).
Cheryl Wetzstein’s article in the Washington Post provides a look into his latest claim: “I see faith in America at an all-time high.”
So What?
Of course, Osteen bases this lofty assertion on nothing more than his own incredibly optimistic worldview. He points to no facts, no research, and nothing beyond himself. He offers the opposing view when no such view is defensible.
As a spiritual leader, I hope Osteen will formally retract his misstatement or provide additional insight that clarifies his statement is not intended to speak to American faith as a whole (as it now suggests). Even if he never does so, I hope someone will hand him credible research that looks at American religious belief, practice and affiliation. Perhaps a good starting point is Mark Chaves new book: American Religion: Contemporary Trends (2011).
- Why do you think Osteen makes remarks such as these despite data that clearly proves he is mistaken?
- What other claims have you heard well-known religious leaders make that were clearly inaccurate?
- How does this type of activity impact how non-Christians view Christians?