Bishop T.D. Jakes is a well-known modern preacher apparently with a modern message. This is crucial to understand because the Bible never changes it's message although many over a millennia have attempted to do so. As preacher, author, and entrepreneur, his influence stretches far beyond the walls of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas as well as other “franchised” churches such as Potter’s House Denver, Colorado.
His charisma, eloquence, and ability to connect deeply with audiences have made him a global icon. However, as is often the case with those who build multi-million-dollar ministries using Jesus’s Name, Jakes has not been immune to theological scrutiny. Some have raised questions about his doctrinal positions, not necessarily to vilify him but to examine the theological implications of his teachings. This is not to suggest vilification of false doctrine is wrong.
The concerns surrounding this mega-millionaire who follows a worldly poor Savior (Jesus) center primarily on his interpretation of the Godhead, his embrace of prosperity theology, and the practical outworking of his theological framework in general. These concerns invite reflection, and certainly righteous condemnation in some instances, in pursuit of understanding the tension between his teachings and Holy Spirit biblical theology.
The Godhead and Trinitarianism
One of the most significant areas of contention revolves around Bishop Jakes’s views on the nature of God, particularly his position on the Trinity. Historically, the doctrine of the Trinity is a cornerstone of Christian theology, affirming one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jakes, however, has been associated with a theological position known as Oneness Pentecostalism which emphasizes that God reveals Himself in different modes or manifestations rather than as three distinct persons. Although beyond the scope of this post, and having personally debated these people, essentially both positions are largely the same and only the language differs.
The Word “Godhead” is biblical, Trinity appears nowhere in scripture, yet both agree God manifests Himself in Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Don’t allow the volumes of writing and debates from both sides to distract from that simple truth. Interestingly, both sides of the argument believe the other heretical and therefore not representative of the Lord Jesus!
Nevertheless, this association stems from Jakes’s early ministry and his alignment with Oneness Pentecostalism, a movement that rejects the Trinitarian formula. As someone who leads a Baptist church, and although not necessarily satisfied with the word Trinity, I must admit its adherents have done a lousy and inadequate job of cogently articulating the position.
However, while Bishop Jakes has publicly attempted to clarify his stance in recent years, stating that he believes in "one God in three persons," critics remain cautious. His wording often leans toward describing the Godhead in terms of “manifestations,” a term more commonly associated with modalistic theology than Trinitarian doctrine.
Although I believe it a trivial matter, for many theologians, it has significant implications for how we view the relationship within the Godhead and God’s redemptive work in history. Critics worry that even subtle deviations in language can inadvertently distort key elements of faith.
The Theology of Abundance and Bishop Jakes
Another point of concern for many is Jakes’s association with abundance theology more commonly called the prosperity gospel. This doctrine suggests personal, asset-based wealth and the abundance it brings are direct signs of God’s favor. Yet none of its disciples have adequately explained Jesus’s personal shunning of the same, as well as His command to early disciples to leave everything and follow Him.
This doesn’t mention his command to, “forsake storing up treasure on Earth rather the riches of Heaven.” The Bishop often preaches messages that emphasize personal empowerment, financial success, and victory over life’s struggles—messages that resonate deeply with his audience. However, detractors argue that these teachings risk reducing the gospel to a transactional promise of blessings in exchange for faith and obedience.
To his credit, Jakes has been careful to distance himself from the more extreme versions of prosperity preaching. He does not explicitly promise that every believer will become wealthy or never face hardship. Yet, the emphasis on financial gain raises concerns about the balance between biblical stewardship and materialism.
Such messages, while inspiring, shifts the focus of faith from Christ’s sufficiency to personal achievement. Those, like me, understand that the New Testament presents a vision of discipleship marked by sacrifice, self-denial, and enduring suffering for the sake of the gospel.
Cultural Relevance vs. Theological Faithfulness
Jakes’s ability to connect with culture is undeniably one of his greatest strengths. His messages often address the realities of modern life with a practicality that resonates deeply with hearers. However, this familiarity has led to questions such as whether his theology is shaped more by the pressures of cultural relevance than by the unchanging truths of Scripture.
For instance, Jakes, as well as other iconic mega-preachers, have been praised for their willingness to address issues like racial reconciliation, mental health, and economic empowerment. These are undoubtedly important topics yet there is legitimate concern that in striving to be culturally relevant, such leaders too often exchange Holy Spirit power for personal empowerment which is more palatable in modernity.
The gospel message, at its core, is countercultural and so much so, both Jesus and later His Apostles were persecuted and killed (save John). The true gospel message teaches there are only two personal states Believers should be in: carrying a cross or being nailed to one and Jake’s message exhibits neither.
To be fair, and as was alluded to, Jakes is not the only prominent Christian leader whose teachings have been scrutinized. The rise of celebrity pastors has amplified theological debates in ways that previous generations never experienced. In this sense, examination of the methods of celebrity preachers as well as evangelism are righteous.
A Call for Nuance
In wrestling with these glaring issues, it’s essential to approach the conversation with both conviction and humility. On the one hand, the church must uphold the truth of Scripture and address theological concerns when they arise in each generation. On the other hand, it’s crucial to avoid being deceived into thinking that everything any preacher says is the gospel truth!
The questions raised by Jakes’s teachings are not about attacking his character or denying the fruit of his ministry. Instead, they invite the broader Christian community to engage in meaningful dialogue about what it means to remain faithful to the gospel.
Ultimately, the conversation about Jakes’s doctrinal positions is a reminder of the need for discernment in the church.
As believers, we are called to test all things against the standard of God’s Word, holding fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). This task requires us to think critically, engage charitably, and remain anchored in the truth of Scripture. In the end, the goal is not to win an argument but to grow in understanding, faithfulness, and love. As the body of Christ, we are stronger when we wrestle with these questions together, seeking God’s wisdom and truth above all else.
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