In a recent sermon that has sparked significant controversy within the Christian community, T.D. Jakes, a prominent preacher often associated with the Prosperity Gospel, has come under fire for what many are calling “unbiblical teachings.” The sermon in question, which has been dissected and criticized by various Christian commentators, includes statements that have raised serious concerns about their alignment with scripture.
Colin, from the popular YouTube channel “Fight for Truth,” known for providing Christian commentary on matters of faith, released a detailed video critiquing Jakes’ sermon. According to Colin, the sermon was so problematic that it required multiple videos to address the theological errors presented.
One of the most contentious points in Jakes’ sermon involved the phrase, “I still want me,” which Jakes encouraged his audience to repeat as a declaration of self-worth even in the face of calamity. Colin argues that this self-affirming mantra is not only misguided but also contrary to the teachings of the Bible. He points out that in times of distress, biblical figures like David did not place their hope in themselves but rather in God. Referencing Psalm 3, Colin emphasized that David, when fleeing from his son Absalom, turned to God for deliverance rather than engaging in self-affirmation.
The critique deepened as Colin analyzed another segment of the sermon, where Jakes suggested that such self-affirmation could cause “demons to tremble” and “hell to get nervous.” Colin strongly rebuked this notion, stating that the power over demonic forces comes from God alone, not from human willpower or self-perception. This, according to Colin, is a dangerous departure from sound doctrine, as it shifts the focus from God’s power to human effort.
Colin further criticized Jakes for his interpretation of 1 Samuel 30:3-15, where Jakes seemingly applied God’s specific promise to David to modern-day Christians’ personal ambitions. Colin stressed that while the Bible provides principles for encouragement, it is inappropriate to directly equate God’s promises to David with a blanket endorsement of personal success for all believers. He noted that James 4:13-15 teaches Christians to submit their plans to God’s will, a concept that contrasts sharply with Jakes’ message of self-permission leading to divine permission.
The most alarming aspect of the sermon, according to Colin, was Jakes’ assertion that “self-permission led to God’s permission.” Colin argued that this statement undermines God’s sovereignty and authority, suggesting that human will can dictate divine action. He compared this to a child believing that their own permission supersedes that of their parents, an idea that fundamentally disrespects authority.
In conclusion, Colin urged viewers to “mark and avoid” T.D. Jakes as a false teacher, citing this sermon as a clear example of man-centered, motivational speech masquerading as biblical teaching. He called on Christians to support and empower local churches with sound, scripture-based doctrine, and to pray for Jakes to return to the truth of God’s word.
This controversy has reignited debates about the Prosperity Gospel and the importance of adhering to biblical teachings in Christian ministry. As the discussion continues, many within the Christian community are grappling with how to respond to influential figures like T.D. Jakes who may be leading believers astray with teachings that deviate from scripture.
