A practical theological investigation of the prosperity gospel: The case of Tweefontein, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Abstract

Most residents of the rural community of Tweefontein, Mpumalanga, live in poverty, predominantly as subsistence farmers and domestic workers. Numerous churches and their pastors also face financial hardship due to insufficient resources to sustain their congregations. Despite these challenges, the prosperity gospel appears to have gained significant traction in this environment, with pastors increasingly turning to so-called 'health and wealth' preaching as a perceived solution to the prevailing poverty. It is noteworthy that the majority of pastors lack theological education, which may contribute to the misapplication of Scripture for personal benefit. The aim of this study was to undertake a practical theological examination of the prosperity gospel in Tweefontein, Mpumalanga, South Africa, in order to address its apparent prominence within the area. Employing a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative research and a literature review, the study invited ten pastors to contribute sermons for analysis, with seven questionnaires administered to obtain further information and perspectives regarding the prosperity gospel in the community. The investigation sought to determine whether Scripture is deliberately taken out of context during sermons to fulfill the financial interests of pastors, or whether such practices stem from a lack of theological training among those promoting the prosperity gospel. Upon establishing this distinction, the thesis explored the relationship between theological education and preaching that meaningfully engages with the realities of poverty. The study argued that theological training has the potential to equip local pastors to present the full counsel of God, thereby offering substantive hope in the midst of extreme deprivation.