The Prosperity Gospel: A Modern Day Cargo Cult?
Law of Attraction or Divine ATM?
By Sylvia Cochran, published May 08, 2008
Published Content: 274 Total Views: 263,349 Favorited By: 22 CPs
In a day and age of the Internet, television, and even just plain radio technology this seems to be an entirely fictitious notion, but not so! There is indeed on the island of Tanna (located in the South Pacific) a still operating cargo cult which reveres a mythical deity known as John Frum (a term anthropologists believe to stem from the way GIs may have introduced themselves to the villagers' ancestors, i.e. "Hi, I'm John from America"). The BBC reported in February of 2007 about the parades the island's young men hold, many of which carry wooden weapons painted with the letters USA.
The goal of the parades and worship is the wished for and much anticipated return of the mythical John Frum who is said to then bring them abundant wealth and also happiness.
Understanding the Prosperity Gospel
The prosperity gospel - also known as prosperity theology, the law of prosperity, and "the secret" - is a belief system that is common within certain Christian charismatic congregations but also heavily favored in the new thought movement.
In simplest terms, the idea of the law of prosperity requires the adherent to think themselves rich. Whether the blessing is to emanate from the Christian deity or the universe, the philosophy behind the mindset is pretty much the same.
If you were to put it down in an equation, it may look something like this:
Sincere belief in a power waiting to bless abundantly + earnest actions displaying that belief = abundant blessings and fiscal prosperity
The prosperity gospel for those of the Christian background requires eager believers to understand that God wants to bless them. Since He is the maker of the universe, there is no blessing too big or too hard for Him to give. All that He requires is a sincere belief in Him and His blessing power.
You may also like...
- The Hare Krishna is Not a Cult
- How to Recognize the Signs of A Cult: Protect Yourself by Avoiding Cult Membership
- Christian Ministers and Prosperity Gospel, the Unanswered Questions
- How to Build Your Own Prosperity Altar
- Hatred Personified: Fred Phelps and the Religious Cult He Leads
- Religion Study Notes: John's Gospel Vs. Matthew, Mark and Luke
- Balance: Career as Gospel Artist and Family with Deidra Hughes
- Expecting Prosperity
- How I Met My Husband: My Experience as a Christian Cult Member, Part 8
Takeaways
- A still operating cargo cult which reveres a mythical deity known as John Frum exists today
- The idea of the law of prosperity requires the adherents to think themselves rich
- Why are there plenty of entrepreneurs who are cashing in from the law of prosperity?
Did You Know?
Does it not stand to reason that something which is supposed to require little more than an active imagination should not really cost you any money?
Most Commented On


Pam Gaulin
Add a Comment
Posted on 05/09/2008 at 7:05:07 PM
3lilangels
Add a Comment
Posted on 05/09/2008 at 6:05:13 AM
Harold Sink
Add a Comment
Posted on 05/08/2008 at 9:05:07 PM