Andres
Puritan Board Doctor
A dear friend and I were discussing what should and should not be preached from the pulpit. The discussion originated in regards to Joel Osteen. I took the stance that Osteen was wrong because he does not present the Gospel and the truths of the scriptures properly. My friend's stance is that Osteen could still be beneficial to the church as an "encourager". My friend said that many Christians may be struggling in their faith and Osteen's messages could be used by God to encourage believers in their walk. I disagreed because I feel that as a pastor, Osteen, or any minister of the Gospel, has an admonition to proclaim God's word, including the Gospel message, including the need for reconciliation to God, repentance, salvation by faith in Christ alone, etc. I was then challenged to provide specific scripture to show where God commands us what is to be preached from the pulpit. This thread is NOT intended to profess our feelings towards Mr. Osteen, but rather I am asking for some help as to how to continue this discussion with my friend. Thank you in advance for your wisdom.