Pray for Joel Osteen
Image via Wikipedia
He pastors the largest church in America with an attendance pushing 50,000, twice that of the second largest church. His TV broadcast is worldwide, and he continues to write one best-seller after another. His influence is a force to be reckoned with.
He is also the most criticized preacher of our time. My sympathies have gone out to him on many occasions. He has since changed or better stated some views, but continues to speak irresponsibly. I honestly believe he means well. I do not think he is intentionally misleading thousands, perhaps millions, of people. But there comes a time when one must be responsible in studying and understanding the Truths they preach. “To whom much is given, much will be required.”
While those who have a clearer understanding of Christianity have an obligation to set the record straight, I wonder sometimes if they aren’t spending too much time being critical and not enough time praying for Osteen.
As stated above, this man has tremendous influence. Continued criticism will come off like a critical spirit to many whether they support Osteen or not. It is much like nagging, and nagging usually achieves the opposite results that one wants. I’m not saying we shouldn’t rebut the inaccurate statements of Osteen or any others. We just need to make sure we are praying twice as hard as we are criticizing.
All the criticizing in the world will not change Osteen or give him a better understanding of God’s word; only God can do that. Address your concerns appropriately.
from my notebook 
He’s so sweet, too.