A Perfect Life, Part I
Posted on December 5, 2007
Filed Under Andrew Schwab |
I had a profound experience with an equally profound book recently that I had to share here. The name of the book and the author is not important. In fact, the title and subject matter of the book were so generic that it was probably written seventeen thousand times by the same number of authors. Let’s just say its title and subject matter was the summary of the “self-help” section at every major book chain in America.
So why did this book affect me so severely?
To start with, the cover had a huge picture of the author, who wore a wide, toothy grin that communicated an almost obnoxious joy. It was one of those things were the cover annoyed me so much that it stood out from the others around it, nearly jumping off the shelf. Then there was the title of the book–which I will refer to as Becoming the Best Schwab I Can Be. It was almost too predictable. Unbelievably so. The title promised happiness, and the author was modeling it to perfection. It bothered me so much (for some reason I couldn’t place at the time) that I become hooked. I had to find out more.
So I grabbed the book and immediately flipped it over. I read references to ten-step formulas to inner zen, paths to wealth, tips to social accolades and hints to acquiring the mate of my fantasies. I also noticed sections on how to become a better citizen, co-worker, developing healthy habits, etc. I couldn’t help but smile and laugh out loud as I did this, with its cheesy/obvious approach to solving life’s problems (As I did this, the aging businesswoman next to me glanced sideways as if to nonchalantly suggest that chuckling in public is a social offense to her version of upper class establishment Louis Vuitton suburban paradise Real Housewives of Orange County fascist regime of snobbery. I cleared my throat and chuckled again–this time a little louder, of course.) I concluded the lady next to me must own the book, which would explain her reaction to my festiveness. Yes, I said festiveness.
But as I skimmed further my smile faded. A wave of heat washed over me, as I realized this book had sold something like 157,000,000 copies. Then, at the bottom, I read this:
“Blahblahwhatshisface is the pastor of Blahblah church, and was voted by blahblah important magazine to be one of the most influential Christians in America.”
This, with no obvious mention in the title, synopsis, or front/back cover of Christianity.
Was this pure marketing genius, or pure evangelical tragedy?
The blast of emotional nuclear fallout that flowed down my frame confused me. The first question I asked myself was, “Have I been living under a cement block? How have I not heard of this guy?” I examined my response further, asking myself, “How in the world could this-ahem-’fine piece of work’ sell so many copies and strike a chord with so many people?” But maybe I was being premature, judgmental. Maybe I was just not seeing something here. There is no way this grinning Guy Smiley photo with the shockingly mundane, superficial, and unimaginative title/subject matter is what people of “faith” in America connect with. Do Christians really just want self-help steps to fame and fortune from a celebrity spirituality CEO?
Perhaps there is a difference between what we want and what we need…
Yet, despite my qualms, I decide to investigate further. I wanted to know if there was any of that “common element” in me that the millions of people who had purchased this book had in common. I wanted to know if there was something I was missing out on, if my gut was wrong.
I bought the book.
What I came to find was even more unsettling than I had anticipated, however.
(According to the author) God truly wants me to be rich. He really does want me to to be a racecar driver, own my own golf course, and date Giselle. Really and truly. My first response was sarcasm: Man, I must have been an IDIOT to miss this! God wants me to have a bitchin’ car, a great smile, and climb the social ladder. The sum of the whole message as I read is that God wants me, myself, and I to be the Best Schwab I Can Possibly Be. Really, WHAT GOD REALLY WANTS is for me to have a PERFECT LIFE and FEEL GRRREAT.
If I just embrace the fact that I am created to be a winner, then I can truly experience all that being human has to offer me.
But here is the scary part, sarcasm aside: As I read the offers that blahblahwhatshisface was claiming that God was making to me, I found that I wanted them. Oh, I had to dig deep to find the honesty in myself to admit this. But the reality is that what want most in life is to feel better. And wealth, fortune, success, and self-actualization just might be the freaking answer to my doldrums, my feelings of insecurity and fear, especially if Jesus is the one who is helping me achieve these things.
Then, at that moment of clarity, I realized I was number 157,000,001.
Wouldn’t it be amazing if Christianity was really like this? In place of spiritual battle, daily discipline, the development of character through trial and error, patience, perseverance, and testing, we would have…the world. By simply following a set of steps, rules, and guidelines we would find that we pretty much have life sewn.
That is what we humans really want.
A life is that works out great for me.
But the most difficult thing about Christianity is that it doesn’t have anything to do with me. What I mean is that we are called to lose ourselves in order to find ourselves. We give our lives in humility and servitude to Jesus, and he in return gives us eternal life and salvation, along with a life of joy and peace as long as we remain in him. But along the way we must put others before ourselves. And we will find meaning and contentment not in self-actualization, but in giving ourselves in submission to him and to one another in fellowship.These are all fundamental concepts to a Biblical approach to living.
Notice Jesus never said “Follow this simple formula to unlock your potential within.” If my desire in coming to God is motivated by what he can give me, or how he can make me feel, then my ultimate desire is self-focused, rather than Christ-focused. If I treat God as the divine genie, or the eternal “life-improver,” then I think I have missed the point entirely. And if I am a teacher throwing in scripture verses and the teachings of Christ to subtly justify faith as a marketing ploy to those who are looking to feel better about themselves, then I am in danger of leading many astray. Is blahblahwhatshisface completely off? No. He makes some good points about joy and peace in life coming from self-discipline and the right attitude. He does a great job at focusing on the things that would make a certain blurry idea of Christianity attractive. Unfortunately, the deepest recesses of our souls cannot be reached by formulas, principles, or even healthy habits. And the true picture of Christianity is not easy to market, when we are honest. Narrow is the path and few find it.
Don’t get me wrong. There is joy to be had in this life. Tons. But it comes only when we submit the entirely of our beings to Christ the person, the living God, not a strategy of self-actualization.
What we really want and what we really need are sometimes two very different things. Be cautious when someone promises that faith is a means to a better life. They may be subtly trying to give you a message that may make you feel better, while neglecting what you truly need…to be broken and molded into a devoted servant, not a well-adjusted overachiever.
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104 Responses to “A Perfect Life, Part I”
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I work at a Family Christian store… which is hard because of books like this. I have a really hard time when I check people out with this book- because I know it will ultimately do them no good. What was written here is almost word for what I subtley try to say to my co-workers and customers. I literally pray against the selling of this book- that the customers who buy it will one day find themselves in the opposing truths of the reality of following Jesus. And that this false shepherd will shut the hell up until he has something to say that is influenced by the Holy Spirit. Thank you for saying this- and whether or not you are willing to accept it - this may seem completely crazy to you - or outside your beliefs - I’ve followed your entire career- read all your books - seen you live 6 times - and I’ve slowly come to the realization that you are a prophet.
I’ve been guilty of trying to find that something in life that would ultimately mold me into something I wouldn’t be happy being. I know that made sense to you Schwab…But you are right about what we are truly living for here in this life…and when we seek first His kingdom, all the other stuff will be added. It’s funny you mention the “perfect” girl…ha…still looking for mine Bro.
Be blessed…love your music…and just to give you a slight complex, the second paragraph has a typo.
That book sounded suspiciously like it was written by Joel Osteen–he has one WIDE “toothy grin” on the cover of most of his books.
Do you ever say something out loud when you intended to say it under your breath? Two weeks ago in church, I yelled out (thinking I was whispering it to the person next to me) “Joel Olsteen is going to hell.”
Roughly 50% of the congregation heard me, and most of those turned around to stare. Oops. I guess prosperity gospel just makes me shout.
Funny thing happened to me, too. Only I was living in a hole the last 6 years (Iraq) and came back and did the SAME thing, only at the very church the guy is a pastor at in their book kiosk. Whoops. Haven’t had a chance to read it yet, so I can’t judge the book, but I agree with you on the idea. It doesn’t sound like the book supports someone being poor or even middle-income and content. If that’s the case, it’s missing the point.
Does it say when we should stop striving for more “happiness?”
Wow. Once again, you’ve outdone yourself. You’ve somehow managed to take exactly how I’ve been feeling for quite a while now and put it into words that I myself would have written if I thought anyone would have taken the time to read them. It’s become so popular and so easy for people to turn God into their own personal ATM machine, or as you said, their “divine genie”. I’m so sick of hearing that “God is a god of increase”, or “God wants you to get that promotion”, or how God wants my business to grow and prosper, that I could scream! There’s no talk from these “prosperity” teachers of the meaning of brokenness, or the trials and tests in life. If you listened to them enough, you’d think that being a Christian meant living the American dream, a 5 bedroom house, 3 cars and a white picket fence. I’m so sick of it all. Thank you, Schwab. You said it perfectly.
Dead on.
this was great I love reading in writings that the Schwab has done and this just shows that Andrew is Christian for those that tell me project 86 is not Christian
Andrew I could not have said it better myself. Thank you for writing this. It is true God never said follow me and you will be rich beyond your wildest dreams. HE said follow me and whatever trials you go through you will be able to make it through them. The road is long, the road is narrow, and there are plenty of chances to fall off it, but with Jesus we can get back on. We may never be rich with money, but we will be rich, because we have something better than money to look forward to. Thanks again Andrew.
Wow Ive been seeing alot of chrustian junk latly I’m reading this book called Jesus Of Suberbia and it’s insane the author talks about the fact that in the US we pretty much have made our own Jesus one who only wants good and requires little it’s really good everyone that hasnt read it should it’s by Mike Erre
Whatshisname preacher did that to me. I didn’t actually buy the book, but I wanted to wipe the grin off his face.
I’m guessing you never saw his interview on primetime, I think. (Some news report on abc)
The interviewer pointed out (among other things) that in the LARGEST CHURCH IN AMERICA, there is no cross or semi-religious symbolism anywhere in the church. And whatshisname was like, “Well, it’s all about making people feel welcome.”
And then he started crying and saying how he so blessed to help people, and I was cringing a bit.
He’s a nice dude and he seems sincere, but the cross was the most difficult thing anyone’s every attempted, much less completed in the history of humanity. And yet somehow we think living for a God who gave himself to the last drop will be cookies and walks in the park everyday.
The cross isn’t supposed to make people comfortable. It certainly wasn’t comfortable for Him, why would we expect things to be so much different?
All too true man. All too true. I can picture that guy on the cover right now, and I get the same feeling. Try watching his television broadcast. It’s even more fun!
sorry that you had to buy that book to find out who he was and what his message was about. did you see him on 60 minutes? its a great interview.
Dude Andrew…i love this. Not because its written by you but b/c you honestly challenge me with your words…i like how you are real too…you know…it takes a lot of guts to throw “bitchin”…not that i like that word…but your not gonna fake it for your fans or for a record label…some people might critisize…but he who is with out cussing cast the first slandering, gossiping word…
Awsome… hit it on the point
Wow. I don’t think I’ve ever read or heard such an intelligent explanation of why Christians should live humble lives without the writer crossing into self-martyrdom. It seems most authors advocate living a lavish lifestyle or self-inflicted poverty in order to prove one’s spiritual maturity. You’re rational, practical, articulate, and balanced.
I can’t wait for part 2.
i appreciate the fact that you didn’t just attack the smiley, short-sighted, and sincere author of this book. don’t get me wrong, i think he is incorrect on how to live the best life. you criticized the theology, not the person. and i find that commendable. we have enough people hating each other. we don’t need to be hating our own family.
I know of the book you speak of and I had some of the same ideas you are talking about here. You do such a good job of just laying it out and speaking it as the truth. Not that the writer of this book lies or anything like that.
This is awesome, this article on Andrew Schwab’s book read. If those blahblahwhat’stheirnames who write those self-help books, and heads of certain corporations would preach the truth, then they/we would all fulfill His great commission!
“If my desire in coming to God is motivated by what he can give me, or how he can make me feel, then my ultimate desire is self-focused, rather than Christ-focused.”
I wish the body of Christ (at least in America) would realize this very thing. “Blahblahwhathis face” (as you call him) spoke at my college graduation this past May and I left feeling unsure of what to accept and what to dismiss from what he said. And as much as I cringe at the marketing ploys and the wave they’ve ridden from this whole thing (did you know the book was made into a board game? A freaking board game! And he made the cover of Newsweek or Time a while back, I think)…I need to realize that there is truth in it, even if the balance is off.
Thanks for sharing. Interesting read!
Joel Osteen! I live in Houston Tx. He turned the old basketball arena into his church. And yes, I agree with you. Your music is awesome, it was great when I heard you had two songs on the new Smackdownn vs Raw 2008. It’s great expossure for you guys. Thanks.
Oh, Schwab. You make me want to be a Christian sometimes. I love that you tell it like it is. And I love that you are so well written.Thanks for being such an inspiration, even to those of us with little faith.
well articulated, sir. did you know that what’s his face has a board game? i do not believe that he investigated the role of board games (to be a FUN diversion) and made simply a bored game. i kind of want it out of incredulosity.
Thank you Andrew. This is exactly the way I feel. This is exactly what God has shown me. Thanks for the truth of servitude and humble character.
Thanks for the insight. Everytime I go to a bookstore with friends I always rant and rave about whatever book you may be talking about or a book that is similar to it. I appreciate your honesty though, it is easy to make a big fuss about these kinds of books. It is not so easy to be honest with oneself and say, “That’s what I want.” I appreciated the fact that you had to reach down deep inside yourself and bring that out. It was convicting. Maybe next time I go to the local book store I’ll rant a little less and pray a little more.
thanks schwab, for digging deep into yourself.
I come from a missionary family where I saw poverty and realized I didn’t need money or any of that junk. But I often lacked deep relationships and when I got one, every now and then I would worship it, I cling to it so tightly that after a few weeks ripping would take place to pull my idol away from me. I thought love and affirmation from that one person would fill me up. but I was left empty and wanting more, then it went to impurity and being a hardcore clinger. I was addicted to human interaction with my fully human saviour, no matter what she did, I would never give her up, in John 14 somewhere Jesus tells us we need to be ready to give up our wives and children, to turn our backs on our mothers and fathers and brothers for Jesus.
so instead of propping up american success and hot cars. I worshipped a girl I let myself think I needed.
God enventually and fortunately allowed her to walk away from me. She became pregnant with another mans baby while we were engaged. Afterwards there were still times that I desired to have my idol back, though it destroyed me thoroughly. But the Lord has provided as he promises.
Holy Crap! That is unbelievable, I love your comments on Joel Osteen’s new book. He makes everything seem so rosy and fun, like you said that he wants everyone to be a millionaire dating the hottest girls, but like you said,”Narrow is the way, and FEW there be that find it!” Great Stuff as always man! Keep it up!
This is awesome Andrew, I think I know who and what book you are talking about. I’m glad to see you realize the purpose God has placed us here is not for a life full of mere humanistic self gratification, cars, women and stuff. It’s about Christ, His call for us to follow Him, not because we will get everything we want, but because He has called us and he is worthy. Christ is worthy of our service, following, love, adoration, devotion, our lives simply because He is worthy, as a great preacher once said, “we should serve Christ with our lives, even if we go to hell at the end because He is worthy” He is God and we owe Him everything. This is an awesome blog, keep up the good work.
Andrew Schwab is completley right… I’ve always enjoyed reading what he has to say.
You have just summed up some of the frustrations i have been having. i could not agree more. and i really needed this right now. thank you very much.
There is an idea in your writing that resonates with one of my biggest struggles in Christianity today. You commented on how many books this particular author had sold. What is interesting to me is how Christian authors, pastors and evangelists are well versed in numbers. Their best aruging points always seem to revolve around how many people they have saved (…or in this author’s case, how many books they sold). This becomes my question…
If these people have led so many others to a saving relationship through Jesus, or influenced them through their words…why is the world still so screwed up?
I mean…we hear about all these converts and how influential these pastors are, and I look around and see the same problems and issues. Which means that either the people saying the prayers are lying…or the pastors are lying…but somebody’s not telling the truth.
(…or more possibly…nobody has a true understanding of discipleship…which is a much more likely scenario.)
Either way…I’m just a cynical, bitter 23 year old who grew up in the church and apparently has way too much time on his hands to bitch about how dumb everyone else is.
As I read the description of the book you were talking about, the first thing I thought of once you described the author’s smile as a “wide, toothy grin that communicated an almost obnoxious joy”, was Joel Olsteen. That’s just my guess though.
I find it funny that I feel the same way about that book.
Great article, Schwab!
I agree with pretty much everything you said Schwab. You’re one heck of a write, and you put into words the way I feel better than I ever could. At first, I thought you were going to suggest that this particular writer was completely off the mark and that Christianity is supposed to be all about hardship and tough times, but it’s not and I’m glad you said that. Thanks for being honest because it can’t be easy to somewhat disagree with 157,000,000 people.
Amen and amen. Thanks for writing this . . . SOMEONE needed to!
Amen Schwab
I love it. I think I may have actually skimmed over blahblahwhatshisface’s book about a week ago. It was at least as cheesy and generic as the one you described, that’s for sure. I’m glad someone said it. And I’m now jealous that I don’t have a super cool blog as well… I want to say profound and simple, yet shockingly unfamiliar and uncomfortable truths. I guess I just want to be the best Andrew Schwab I can possibly be. haha. Good read.
Awsome.
Great Article. I have seen books by a whatshisface guy before, always unnerved me a little.
[…] can read the entire article here. Trust me, its worth your […]
Hey andrew,
YOu may not remember but you actually led me in a prayer years ago that started my relationship with Christ…but thats beside the point here.
I wont lie, i was worried when i began reading this, but then i realized you didnt buy the purpose drivel, faith based prosperity bit.
This is a huge stumbling block in Christians right now, scores of churches are “preaching” the prosperity message and in turn, i believe, misguiding their flock. God wants us to be happy and prosper yes, but the things that we desire usually dont line up with his plan for our lives because most of us are not close enough to God to have what that plan is in our hearts.
The problem is that people’s faith is becoming selfish, without them realizing it. We should love God because of his grace love for us, not because of what we can squeeze out of him here on earth. Our main reward is in Heaven, not Earth.
But im ranting
God Bless man
-keanon
man Andrew it’s awesome to see that people know the truth about life. it’s not about getting all that we want cause all we need is Jesus. True Christianity is following Jesus whatever the cost. as Job said in the Old Testament “The Lord give and He takes away but blessed be the name of the Lord” if it was about us or if this life was it then i would give us cause i’m a jerk. my hope is not in this life but in the next. Praise God. He is good even when life sucks!
-Wes Davis
Psalm 139
wesdavis@calvarychapel.com
Well said!!!
Schwab you are so right. I know the book and man of which you speak, and I do not like him so much. I dont hate him, but I wouldnt go to his church, because its not real. I’m not even sure if he’s read the old testament, if you know what I mean. Unfortunately a new denomination has arrived and is spreading. What I like to call “The Church of Me” see the video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgdIBDVfnP0&feature=related
Unfortunately, the whole “health and wealth” gospel is extremely popular in American Christianity today. However, if one reads the Bible they will see that Christians do not have perfect ideal lives, in fact, oftentimes they suffer severely for no other reason than being a Christian. I’m wondering how the author of that book justifies his claims in light of the Bible and the sheer reality of Christian persecution all over the world.
I know exactly what book you’re talking about. I saw it in an airport store, and took a picture of it because the cover drove me insane.
This is an awesome blog, and I got a lot out of it.
Thanks, man.
Dude…Right on, I know exactly what book you are talking about, and you really nailed in on the head. I hate it that we try to make this cookie cutter christianity, that is all nice, and cozy, when the gospel of Christ is hard to take. It has some painful truths, that many of us choose not to accapt. I like the line where Jesus never said do this to get the perfect life. It’s so true. If he did anywhere it was simply love. Love God, and love people. Right on!
umm….amen and amen.
Prosperity Theology to a T, what a promise that millions of people in a somewhat hurting economy turning to a person who has promised that faith,being the vehicle of success to the happy and earthly fulfilling existence. I believe that it pains the heart of God when his children treat him as though he is the Celestial Santa. If we as believers are supposed to” pick our cross daily and walk” I believe that, in the mirror image of Jesus walk to Golgotha, I don’t see a shinny new sports car trophy wife and all of that promised. I see hard work perseverance spiritual warfare. These are characteristics of a Christian walk. Now that doesn’t mean that we stand back defeated and intimidated, it just means that we can be confident that we can meet our creator and that we can share the love that he has shown thought the death,burial and resurrection of Christ. Thanks Andrew for the thought
QUOTE: “If my desire in coming to God is motivated by what he can give me, or how he can make me feel, then my ultimate desire is self-focused, rather than Christ-focused.”
Life changing. Once again, I’ve learned so much from the great Schwab. Great article.
yeah… many are the troubles of the righteous.. and the lord will see them through… not steps, God… people reject the word and when they do the necessity for things like salvation and happiness comes… so then they make “steps” lol… oh well… only steps i can take are the ones that Jesus takes…
Two points…
First I have to wonder what the proponents of this “theology” or “philosophy” would say of my wife struggling with her chemo treatments this week at the age of 26? Is she not faithful enough? Were is the ‘material increase’ here? If anything I’m losing it with the med bills and the pain at the pump! The reality is that the true and godly increase has come to our souls, in what Schwab described above, and that despite all of this we can still testify with our hearts and souls that God is still good!
Second, this shockingly sounds a bit too much like gambling, doesn’t it to anyone else? Think about it, most of the proponents to this ‘doctrine’ usually tag on the end of there services on Sundays with something like, ‘if you give to my ministry, God will bless you!’ So, in essence, I am giving so that I will receive more, materially that is!
Finally, (I guess there is three points) didn’t Jesus do away with legalism? Don’t we have liberty in Christ, which really brings us to a better state of blessness than what they are offering? Yet, our beloved Schwab, points out the formulas and 10 easy steps to ‘happiness’in their ‘doctrine. Sounds a bit too much like polite legalism because instead of wrestling with God’s Word, these 157,000,000+ are going to wrestle with the formula in which there will be a strenuous application with no deviation and by following they are on the road to redemption and blessedness. This is at the very heart of the pharisee way of life…focus on my progression with an utter discontentment for yours, especially when it’s not like mine.
in a round about way, it sounds too much like Evil(a chorus for resistance) which reminds me of James 4:1-5!
Kuddos to Schwab and blessings to his faithful (and intelligent) supporters.
wow, thanks for being so honest about yourself…
i’m sure everyone can guess what pastor and book you’re talking about.
it makes me so sad when people try to make christianity into a simple formula
it makes me sadder when people honestly believe that they’re doing good when they try to make christianity so simple for people. some of the things people like that say are true but those are hidden in all the feel-good things they preach.
it’s not just about feeling good about yourself, it’s an honest relationship that is really difficult and heart-breaking sometimes…
Interesting. Obviously you’ve struck a cord with a lot of people. Me too, I’ve often hated the wide toothy smile of phseudo christian prosperity.
But I’m glad that you tagged on the bit about there being joy to be had. Because so often lately it seems that being a child of God means living a despondant, bitter life.
God isn’t a vending machine, He’s soveriegn God…so prayer is reduced to, “Your will be done.”
God isn’t about us, He’s all about bringing glory to Himself, so if we’re unhappy we just have to suck it up and hope it brings glory to God.
There is a happy-medium somewhere between Guy Smiley and Strong Sad.
Just by the toothinous descriptor I know who you’re talking about.
Now I will finish reading.
The Schwab gets it…
Schwab! dude, you never cease to astond me. I have always felt that a major part of Christ’s ministry and a part that every denomination of the church has turned its back on is simple servitude. God has shaped and molded me so much through being a servant. Great article. Rock on bro!
Are you kidding me?!?! Joel Osteen and “Your Best Life Now” is the ****… I mean BOMB!
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… Just kidding! No one disagreed, so I thought it would be fun.
Great article.
I whole heartedly argee..
Who doens’t want to feel good, and live a happy christian lifestyle? Some would call it the abundant life. I tend to think of it as a distraction to the voice of God. This reminds of a scripture:
Pro 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.
Thanks Schwab for your words.
Peace in Christ.
Jake
Hurrah for Schwab!
I am so sick and tired of everybody trying to stick formulas on EVERYTHING! Spirituality, relationships, money, success, politics… why do people buy in to this crap? I don’t know anybody personally whose life has been changed by a step-by-step formulaic equation somebody thought of. The only formula that is relevant would be this:
1)take self help book from shelf
2)walk to nearest trash can
3)release book into the trash can
4)grab a book of matches
5)light that bad boy up
6)watch it burn and enjoy!
I thank God that He does not require us follow certain steps. The whole life experience should be an adventure and we should look to Him for our help!
Besides… self-help is kind of… selfish. I don’t think pastors should be so bent on that subject.
I have to agree with you that a capitol flaw in American Christianity is the desire for more. Not of God, but of the world; and it may be true that our father wants the best for us, but that does not guarantee a life of comfort. All prayers are answered, but what this man overlooks is that sometimes God answers with a “No”.
Another problem I have with this book is that it promotes consumerism by claiming that God will give all of his followers the riches of this world. Through that I think he creates a material gluttony, which is just a shame because someone who is weak in faith and knowledge could be easily mislead down a wayward path.
There is no simple formula to a better potential. People are not cookie-cutters, what works for one will not always work for another. This is the last problem I have with the book; that it claims to have a “one size fits all” formula of achievement. That we can all live in great comfort as Christians without a care in the world as long as we all follow these 3 easy steps. If God’s followers do nothing, who will do his work? Do we serve God or does he serve us? God never said life would be easy, which is why I am inclined to hold this book in bad taste.
To me, this book is just a reason why I need to pray for 157,000,000 people
So true.
thanks for writing this. ive been kinda falling away from my walk with Christ lately, and i was thinking a lot about this kind of stuff. I didnt want to pretend to follow God and just be in it cause I wanted something. I cant fool him. I was thinking about this just before reading this. i think this article just helped me a lot.
This is SO true. I don’t understand where in the Bible he gets this information. By NO means does God promise all these things to us. He pretty much promises the opposite- that we will be struck down but not destroyed, etc… I’ve been a Christian for a long time and I can honestly say that the hardest thing I went through in my life brought me the closest to God. I went through a depression that I honestly did not think I was ever going to come out of it. I didn’t understand because I knew that God promises to never put us through anything that we can’t handle and I honestly didn’t feel like I could handle it. When I finally turned to God for help (out of utter despair pretty much) I started to be able to handle it and get through it. (instead of trying to figure it out on my own & make myself better) It’s hard to admit you can’t do something on your own but it’s the best thing (after you humble yourself =)) to realize that we have a God who can help us through anything. Man is it true, how God can turn something so ugly and dark into something so beautiful. I think that’s what he specializes in. =) That was the worst and best thing I’ve ever been through. The worst because of the dark hole I felt I was in and the best because of how close it brought me to the Lord. So, I completely agree- Christianity is about selflessness in every sense of the word. I think God wants us to be broken so that we realize it’s not about us- it’s about Him. And God wants us to think of others before ourselves and show us that that is where real joy comes from. It’s sad that this guy is teaching all of this stuff because it’s pretty much the same thing the world teaches. People need to know there’s something more because there is. This was really good Andrew.
You sir, are the new C.S. Lewis.
Scwab… I gotta say that I am impressed. I’ve seen so many wishy-washy artists who claim to be Christian. There were times that I had worried you were one of them. I’m so glad for conformation that your not.
I’ve seen so many buy into these lies that I have yet to see evidence of in the Bible. The early church was all about getting not receiving and yet God has become the never ending piggy bank to so called Christians, and their entire faith is based themselves. When these people don’t get their way this paper thin faith crumbles. Doesn’t Christian mean “Christ like”? Is that way of thinking Christ like? Last time I checked Christ was about serving God and the people around you. While God is love, we love ourselves.
Thank you for being out there and writing about this. This type of preaching almost took my whole family away from what really matters, Jesus! Life on this planet is hard, especially for Christians and if as “Christians” we ignore that and start buying into what everyone else on the planet is chasing (money and to “feel good” all the time) we are truly lost! tragic!
I’d just like to throw in a few Scriptures that folks may want to read on how Christians are to be TRUELY happy/content. HIS word is the bottom-line anyways, right?
Ex. 33:18 & Philippians 3:10 - This is the core of real, enduring happiness; to know HIM and HIS presence.
Matt. 6:19-21
Philippians 4:11-13
1 Tim. 6:6-10
GOD bless!!!
[…] Schwab, lead singer of (one of my most absolute favorite bands) Project 86 recently blogged about his experience reading Joel Osteen’s latest book. (Yeah, I was surprised he had bought it too.) Of course […]
about two months ago the guest speaker in my church named mr. toothy as “the most dangerous man in america”. i have been trying to figure out why ever since, and it didn’t take long to get a part of it. and don’t feel bad about liking some of what he says…last week i heard him preach something that really made me feel a lot better about myself, but i’m just not sure i should have been feeling so great about myself at that moment. ya know? by the way, i think andrew schwab is a great writer, and wish more Christians would read stuff by him.
kudos to Andrew Schwab he did it once again! A lot of Christians get mislead by people like Mr Toothy.Of course we should all be positive and find joy in our lives, but we also have to know that, that isn’t always the case. We are called to serve a God and love Jesus for who he is NOT what he has done for us. He is loving and pure and that should be enough to deserve our praise. Andrew is a real guy, one that goes through trail and error but has the ability to get up, evaluate and try to learn from this. I think that it is very important for a Christian to be real. In order to try to help others meet our savior, we have to understand what they are going through we have to go to their level.The reason why a lot of people even neglect or avoid Christians is because sometimes we seem perfect or pure, when in fact we aren’t, we are real people too! Real people that have in fact found God and are trying to live for him. Finally a real Christian writer that talks about real things, a Christian writer that isn’t scared to leave that cookie cutter image that is bestowed upon many of us. A writer that finally took that leap of faith no matter who will criticize, thats what God really wants.
Thanks Schwab for sharing these thoughts on faith and true discipleship. You are right in saying that following Christ is not about formulas and self-help ideas because in reality, what we have with Christ is a relationship and relationships are not about rules. What I think about when I read blahblahblah pastor is what I think about those that have been raised to believe everything is about rules or regulations. Like the girl or guy who believes that we whouldn’t hold hands or kiss till we are married. Those things are great if they are done because you ultimately care about that other person, but what I usually see in things like this are the person “saving themselves” or “trying to stay pure,” but the problem is that it’s not usually because of the other person. It’s ultimately about them and how they feel about their “relationship” with Christ. It’s another feel good gesture because it’s a legalistic approach to Christ and people. I believe when we put ourselves aside and focus on others just as Christ did, those things we cling to disappear and we are truly able to embrace freedom. In that freedom we are able to rely on Christ for guidance and direction in our lives. When we have everything together and have all the money and goods we want than our need for God is gone. We have become god and as a result we worship ourselves. Anyway thanks for sharing these thoughts that I think many should here.
Thanks for a much needed breath of fresh air in the midst of so much spiritual pollution. I’ve always known by your song lyrics that you see past the veil that has been pulled over so many Christians’ faces. I’ll continue to support your music and ministry over those of suit-wearing, fake-smiling, businessmen with a ministry certificate. I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Walter Brueggemann yesterday, and if you have not read his work, then I think you would enjoy it.
Osteen makes me sick too. I watched his TV broadcast once and it made me want to throw up. He is supposedly a pastor of a church, and I don’t even think he mentioned anything from the Bible once in his “sermon”. I honestly believe he has a copy of his latest book up on his podium instead of a Bible and he reads out of it and quotes it like the Bible. It is so sad to see him leading so many people away from the real message of the gospel and the real life of a Christian. Christians definitely don’t have it easy in life. Read anything written about the many martyrs of Christianity and you will see the Christian life is not “health and wealth”. It’s about giving your health and your wealth to serve the Christ who dies on the cross and rose again to wash away our sins. Thanks for writing such a great article.
That was beautifully stated. A little hard to hear, but nonetheless, beautiful. It helped me to remember that to follow Christ and receive His salvation is a free gift, but it costs everything. It is not easy but is worth it. Thank you Andrew for sharing some of your heart; a heart that is after God’s own.. Keep it up - God is the lifter of your head
Haha. I don’t think you even read the book! Now who’s being judgmental? Me of course. But still. I can’t help the feeling that it seems you didn’t give the book a fair chance but instead began reading it with a biased attitude. I at least thought you could have some constructive critique without bitter sarcasm. Blame this, blame that, soon our heads will all be made of fat dishes of blame-that. Maybe there’s something wrong with me, most likely yes, but I would rather start with seeing the good in a book that has helped millions of people instead of constantly being a party-pooper. Besides you were so obviously trying to discredit pastors such as Joel Osteen (if not literally him), who by the way helped me out of my depression. There are many ways to judge a person, and this is just one of those sneaky and ultimately destructive ways. Don’t judge Joel with cheap word-play. I don’t think Jesus would have used sarcasm. If Jesus has worked for you all your life, that’s great! Just don’t think its such a walk in the park for everyone else. I’ll have to be damn lucky if this is put in the comments (that one’s for the chooser, whoever that is) since it seems like freedom of speech has been regulated quite severely on relevant! I only say this because I noticed everyone!–seemed to agree with you Schwab! Come on people, this is ridiculous. I’m sure I can’t be the only one. Nevertheless you do state your point with literary effectiveness that’s not to be shunned. I never was a fan of Project 86, but I did listen to them from time to time. I suppose that’s one thing we have in common to bridge the divides that so often seem to take over. If you are happy Schwab, then I am glad, but do not only focus on the bad, but above all see the good. If it were not for Joel Osteen I’m certain I would never have seen the good in me. Sometimes the simplest words say what needs to be said. Because its not easy to find verses about loving yourself in the Bible, even though we might want to say otherwise. That’s why people like Osteen are needed. That’s why I needed to hear it, as shallow as you might think it is. Call me a simpleton, I really don’t care, but I’d rather be called weak than live my life with the burden of never hearing the words that I so desperately needed. Thankfully I found that in Jesus a couple of weeks ago, when I got saved. If Jesus said it is the sick who need help, then I’m about as sick as they come. Perhaps I came to the wrong forum, because frankly I don’t count much on this being posted. Schwab, I don’t know what to say… Maybe some things are best left unsaid, negative opinions about my fellow brothers in christ being one of them.
Brother, Ive been saying this for years. This is what I was trying to talk to you about at that Amarillo show in Feb 2006. After joining the Army and seeing what the world has done to everyone, books like these tear down the reality of the Cross and Jesus’ Blood. Keep up the fire, Schwab. I’ll keep reading and posting links…
I like what you put together here .
I think the self-help people should read the book
“Road to Reality” . It is a practical book for those who desire to walk more like Christ. K.P. Yohannan gives an uncompromising call to live a life of New Testament simplicity in order to fulfill the Great Commission. http://www.gfa.org/store/item/?stock_code=B2
God has much more for us than self worship and a new age cultural christianity based on the Humanism that is taught by them .
God bless and abide always in Him !
Barry
“Big business aint easy I’m sure you’d agree, especially when the product is eternity…. Faith is buying me a way, buying me a way into your soul….”
http://bookstore.joelosteen.com/default.aspx?skinid=2
I have recently returned to Christ after 10 years of trying to find my own way. I have realized that HE is the true path. The funny thing is, that I left the “following” 10 years ago because of the church. The hypocrisy that is so evident in every church all across the land. Even the so called “hard core” followers have their problems. And this article is a pure example of the problems with the church. I am not advocating that Joel Osteen is the path to God. But I am saying that God has control of everything, and God can use the info in Joel’s book to reach people that can not be reached by any other means.
I remember listening to a tape of a certain prominent pastor (in the youth scene) in Cali (10 years ago) who mocked other preachers. Mocked!!! Where in the bible does it say to mock anybody, much less those in the church that are trying to reach others? And the worst part was that the whole congregation were laughing their behinds off. If there is anything inappropriate, it is to ridicule, mock, and laugh at others who are trying to do good in God’s name. Regardless of whether he is right or not, your job would be to question and discuss and to pray. NOT to deride anybody for trying to do something for God.
By the way, Andrew gets mad at somebody that presents himself of the world, does not indicate his faith immediately. I find that ironic, when many of the top christian bands have no qualms in being played on secular radio stations and playing concerts in which there is no upfront indication to the general public that they are christian. They call that reaching the lost don’t they?
And one last thing, God does want us to be happy. Does he not say “be fruitful and multiply”. My contention with certain “groups” of christianity is the concept that he put us here to suffer. One question, Why would I want God, if I have to suffer constantly? I can do that without God quite well, and have one hell of a time doing it!!!!
I don’t think Schwab was mocking him. In fact, Schwab makes a point not to name names (although I will admit he didn’t make it too difficult to figure out who it was). He is fulfilling a spiritual responsibility to point out false teachers. No where in the Bible does it preach the health and wealth gospel. It does talk, however, about humility and service. I agree with you, mocking others probably isn’t the most constructive (or Christian) way to get a point across. But that doesn’t apply here. Sure there’s minimal sarcasm, but don’t miss the point. We are here to worship God. It’s not the other way around.
Thats the great thing about America. We can all disagree-agreeably. The thing is, Schwab is totally right on this one.
Yes God loves us and wants us to be happy, but not to do whatever we want to get “happiness”. Christ is the perfect example. Christianity comes with a price, just ask the persecuted church and those who are martyred each day in other countries. They find peace and joy soley through Christ.
Anyways, Way-to-go Schwab. Always in our prayers…
7 steps to a neat life. I totally remember Jesus preaching that.
And…you’re welcome for the introduction to such awesomeness.
It is interesting how people can read the same material and get totally different things out of it. I guess that is why there are Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, and so on. Everybody has there own take on the same words.
It is also interesting that everybody focuses on what Schwab says, not how he says it. That is what I was refering to in my earlier comment. What he believes is what he believes. But when we as a church can not recognize disrespect and mock, then where are we headed? Are we allowed to treat sinners any different? Would it not be more effective to raise the “false prophet” to the lord, and let him deal with it? We do need to watch each others backs, but if I disparrage the methodist for being methodist, I most certainly am not doing God’s work.
Thanks Andrew for your honesty. My family and I have the same opinions about all those toothy pastors, authors, etc… They make it sound like once you become a Christian, your life will automatically become amazing; that once you start donating money to their ministry and churches and reading their books, God will bless you with everything you ever wanted in life. That if you are a Christian and do not have a perfect life, you must not have enough faith in God.
God isn’t a genie that’s going to grant your every wish. I struggle everyday. But just knowing what Jesus did for me and how much God loves me gives me strength and hope for the future.
The world need more writers like you, Schwab. You are awesome.
Thanks again for your words.. and Merry Christmas!
Who’s number 157,000,002?
after reading Schwab’s review, it wont be me!
Thanks Schwab for voicing you beliefs. you truly are a Godsend!
God Bless.
To those you refuse to see the merit in Schwab’s evaluation of ideology called “The Prosperity Gospel” Lets take a look at what the Bible says..
2 Peter 2
False Teachers and Their Destruction
1But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. 3In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.
4For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell,[a] putting them into gloomy dungeons[b] to be held for judgment; 5if he did not spare the ancient world when he brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others; 6if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly; 7and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men 8(for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)— 9if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment.[c] 10This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature[d] and despise authority.
Good in me???
Romans 7
18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
Do not judge??
1 Corinthians 5
12What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? 13God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”[b]
I can go on and on with the Apostle Paul’s teachings and Peter’s teaching. If fact Jesus our Lord, Himself said “there is none that is good”.
So Mr.Schwab, thank you for putting the TRUTH out. All we have to do is to read the Bible for ourselves and honestly all these false doctrines will be easily exposed.
Great article…my husband and I are huge fans of your music and literature. It’s very unfortunate that this “christianity” is most predominant in our culture today. No wonder our society is so depraved when the majority of believers are so self-absorbed. Praise God that lives can be changed regardless of the way inadequate humans present the gospel. God uses our weaknesses daily, and we are privaleged to even be a part of His mighty plan. This is completely irrelevant to Andrew’s article, but I thought you guys may like this kid’s poetry. Check out this link:
http://www.authspot.com/writers/Eric%20Harmeling.21847
First off, I loved this article. I have always enjoyed your sense of subtle sarcasm. Your blogging reminds me of Californication. Amazing.
On a side note: Joel Osteen and those like him are what is wrong with Christianity today. Like Ghandi once said “I like Christianity if it wasn’t for the Christians.”
I could go on, but I won’t. Schwab - your honesty is amazing.
Alright, in reading through this article and the comments made about it, I have found something. What I have found is that Schwab is right in his evaluation of this book and that I agree with him, but that we must be careful not to fall too deeply into pesimism. Our speech is supposed to be edifying, and in concentrating so much on the things that are wrong with the world, we’ll end up perpetuating things that are wrong with the world. I have a good friend who is a Christian who has recently become extremely sarcastic. This has led me to limiting my time with him because I find that pesimism and rude sarcasm can, and will be, poisonous. If I fall into pesimism I find that I become a depressed human being, and I find that all my thoughts about everything become much more dark. This is unneeded and will keep all of us from coming closer to God. It blinds us. It is a compromise, we slowly slide deeper into it until we find ourselves having a problem with anger outbursts or something of the like. Blahblahwhatshisface has done many great things for God, and he truly serves him. No, I do not believe that blahblahwhatshisface is “going to hell”. But I do believe that he is misled on a few areas, and that he is spreading what may end up being a very dangerous philosophy. The problem with Evengelicals today is their lukewarm mentality. I will serve my God until the day I die, and only serve Him, not myself. Whoever wants to make fun of that can go eat dirt. Living all-out for God is the only way that we can be truly happy, it gives us true happiness and fulfillment, we do not need to be rich. God wants us to be successful, but he does not always want us to be successful in this world. God wants us to serve him no matter what. It shouldn’t matter to us if we get rich along the way. Our riches are in the next world, eternity. What’s more important, a piece of rock, or an eternity with God? I don’t even think becoming rich is THAT important. But it helps us become more useful. Money DOES make the world spin, no matter what we want to think, money helps us reach people with the message of the Christ, but I do NOT think it’s that important.
Anyways, Schwab, you are a good writer, and an intelligent man who I think God is using in a great way. Keep it up, and thanks for writing this article.
There is no God to be found in physicality, of course. What a vicious book (and thus a vicious man)! But, because of outbursts like this, isn’t the true Following getting easier and easier to recognize? The path is narrow for there is so much to see. Again: there is no God to be found in physicality. None.
You know, I haven’t read the book… or anything by that particular pastor, so this MAY be covered in there, but I have found an absolute truth in Christianity. When you truly devote yourself to Christ, life gets harder, not easier! I am not just talking about spiritual attacks, but the higher standard of living that we, as Christians, are called to live by. I honestly believe that it is an easier life without God, because there is no accountability… but there is also no true happiness without Him.
Plus, if we were to really live our lives like the WWJD bracelets I see on all of the teens at the mall sugest, then we would not want the sports car, CEO position or the super model. We would just want to live to please Him.
Just my quick thoughts!
Oh, and Mr Best Schwab You Can Be, thanks for the words and the music!
http://www.godsholyspirit.com/christian_desk/rock_roll/rock_roll/rock_roll_continued.htm - 16k -
For anyone looking for a good laugh, go to this site! As if you have to wear a tie and preach from a pulpit to reach souls!
We can laugh at death because it has been conquered by Christ’s blood
I thought of writing several large paragraphs to express how I felt on the subject… then I realized that you and your readers have already said exactly what I wanted to.
It’s good to know that I’m not the only one out there that thinks like this.
Curse Words (swear words):
“For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” - Matthew 12: 37
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” - Matthew 12: 36
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” - Ephesians 4:29
“If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.” - James 1:26
“But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.” - Colossians 3:8
I appreciate someone who’s “real” with people, but being “real” with God is what’s most important. Words are important things, and should be chosen carefully to administer grace unto the hearers. The term I read “bit#*in’” certainly is inappropriate, and disappointing. I’m probably one of your biggest fans, mainly because we see the world very similarly. However, one thing I’ve learned from your music is to be true, that truth, not courtesy, is what matters the most. This is truth - take it or leave it Schwab.
God bless
(hit me back if you see my point at: speck57@hotmail.com)
Thank You, for putting my thoughts into words so well. I’m emailing it to my mom now. (With love of course!)
Schwab! Once again, you’ve hit the nail on the head. Thanks man, It’s good to know that not all christians are sheep running to hear the next snakeoil salesman.
Christianity is not that complicated people. Quit with the power point presentations!
Love God, Love People (with the love he grants you)
-at least that’s how Christ put it (which is good enough for me)
Peace
p.s. and yes I love the Joel Osteens out there as best I can. we all need grace
This brought me to tears. This condition among us. It must be somewhat how Jesus felt when he saw all of the trading and selling at the temple.
I completely agree with you on this. My issue is finding my place to serve. To be more precise, what is my jumping off point. With all the editing, re-writing, and cross translating the Bible has gone through how can I feel confident I am devoting myself to the service God has actually laid out. The easy answer is faith, but I am hoping for more. It seems after 2,000 years of tradition there should be a little clearer of a picture of how to serve God affectively. Instead I am confronted by the 33,000 different denominations all telling a similar but cardinally different ways to do this and since they are all using the Bible as a fall back where does that leave me? Maybe the answer is faith or the Holy Spirit’s guiding, it just seems my service to God shouldn’t be largely developed by trial and error.
Just a thought.
There’s actually 2 unintended typos. But that’s alright. So does this mean I’m not going to be a rockstar adored by millions? Does this mean that when the Bible talks about prosperity it might actually be speaking of something which transcends money and riches? “Life’s more than girls and money” (Foreman)? I might actually get a review from the New York Times akin to the one on the back of “Do Not Disturb” and my writing career isn’t going to be all nice and cosy? Man, I’m glad you opened my eyes to this, if I was the big O’s disciple I might fall away from the faith when I found out that sometimes God wants to challenge us to build character!!!
P.s. Saw you in Toowoomba chief, it was completely worth waiting 9 years for… Even the weird look you shot me when I was giving all my effort into getting involved in One Armed Man… Nice jacket.
If you think I’m a heretic, don’t slander me, do the right thing and complain to me at insightoverincome@mac.com
Haha I had the time of my life with this. I can take a good guess at who you’re talking about here. While briefly discussing this man, in response to his stance on health, wealth, and self-improvement, a wise man once told me this:
“Jesus didn’t come to make your life better. He came to make your life HIS.”
very good man. i love your writing. and as for the B*tchin thing, call me a faulty christian, but swearing doesnt offend me unless its used in a hateful way and this was used just to make a point so im fine with it.