Bishop TD Jakes & Christian Century Magazine

I just wrote to Christian Century about the article on Bishop TD Jakes in their latest issue.

To the Editor:

I am responding to Jonathan L. Walton's article "Empowered" in the July 10, 2007, issue.

I wish I could agree that it is too early to dismiss Bishop Jakes as "only a proselytizer for the prosperity gospel." After first seeing him on Larry King Live, then reading his very helpful book, "Ten Commandments of Working in a Hostile Environment," I went to hear him preach.

After 90 minutes of an uplifting, exhortative message, Jakes' mood changed dramatically. He stated that since God had moved him to speak on Scripture 723 (I do not recall which book), anyone who wanted blessings from God must immediately bring him $723. That's right, seven HUNDRED twenty-three dollars. The spiritual fire he helped build in me in the preceding 90 minutes was extinguished in that moment.

The elderly woman next to me was clearly distressed as we watched the multitudes, mostly female, bring forth their checks for $723. "Honey," she said, "my life is in such dire straights right now, I could use me some blessings." I hesitated, then said, "Mam, I haven't been in seminary very long, but there's one thing I can tell you. This message is not Biblical. You cannot buy, and should not try to buy, blessings from God."

The woman sobbed softly. "Really?" she asked. "Really," I replied. She slowly rose, wiped her eyes, and left the church. I went to my car and was physically ill the next 3 days.