The Prosperity Gospel: A Modern Day Cargo Cult?

Would you believe me if I told you that right now there are people in this world who are constructing make-believe World War II airstrips and via elaborate rituals seek to entice the dropping of cargo - such as was the norm during that war when American GIs were supplied via airdropped cargo shipments on remote islands and outposts while the fighting was raging?

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.