Christen-dissipelskap in die Markusevangelie as critique op die welvaartsteologie

Abstract

Jesus' teaching in Mark's Gospel accentuates that his disciples must follow him in the way of selflessness and cross-bearing servility (Mk 10:45; 8:34) to benefit many others. Contrarily, the religious phenomenon, known as Prosperity Gospel, promotes the teaching that God wills unlimited financial and physical blessing for all believers. In this article a relevant question, namely if Jesus did promise temporal prosperity and physical wellness for all disciples, is approached exegetically from a core text on discipleship (Mk 8:31-38). This article questions the Prosperity Gospel's teaching that God always wills temporal prosperity for all believers. Contrarily, it teaches that disciples, like Jesus, must humbly serve in God's will, irrespective of suffering that may be part of service. Based on these findings, a critical question would be whether the Prosperity Gospel may be regarded as real 'gospel'.