The prosperity gospel seems to be catching hold in American churches, with many placing an emphasis on building wealth. Can you help me defend my position that the Bible does not support this theology? As a Crown supporter, I want to see your message expand. 

Faithful Stewardship

Dear Faithful Stewardship, 

The Bible does not support the teaching of the prosperity gospel, nor does it support the opposite extreme, the poverty gospel. We cannot demand of God, nor should we, that He make us rich with the treasures of this world. We should also not condemn wealth as sinful or rich people as greedy and evil. 

The Scripture teaches us to be responsible with what we have, whether a lot or a little (Matthew 25:14–30). The biblical standard is to be faithful to the Lord with our financial choices because it all belongs to Him and we are temporary stewards. But as you note, many Christians are shifting their emphasis to laying up treasures on Earth, not in Heaven. 

The Final Warning Is About Money 

While the church in Laodicea existed nearly two thousand years ago, its condition feels eerily familiar today. The city of Laodicea is mentioned in the New Testament—in Colossians 2, Colossians 4, and, most famously, Revelation 3. It was one of the wealthiest cities in the Roman world, known for banking, textiles, and medicine. After a devastating earthquake in A.D. 60, the city became so prosperous that it refused financial assistance from Rome, choosing instead to rebuild itself. It had become fiercely self-sufficient. And prosperity shaped its spiritual life.

In Revelation 3:17, Jesus told the church, “You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.”

Their greatest problem wasn’t wealth; it was misplaced dependency. Their self-sufficiency convinced them they no longer needed to depend on God; they were blind to their desperate poverty in the eyes of the Lord. This is a repudiation of the false teaching of the prosperity gospel. 

Ask Chuck Is The Prosperity Gospel Wrong

Americans Compare to the Laodiceans 

Financial success can subtly move our trust from the Lord to our income, investments, retirement accounts, or possessions. Oh, we may still profess faith yet quietly depend on “our” resources while failing to recognize and honor God’s provision.

The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Colossians included a message to the believers in Laodicea. Look carefully at what he said about riches: 

For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments (Colossians 2:1–4 ESV, emphasis mine).

To protect the church from the deception of worldly riches, Paul was pointing out that all the riches and treasures that have eternal value are found in Christ. I like to say that the real riches we need are all the things that money cannot buy. 

Paul’s concern for the believers in Laodicea, expressed in Colossians, was that they would remain firmly rooted in Christ and not be taken captive by worldly thinking. That’s the antidote to financial self-sufficiency. Yet we read in Revelation 3 that the Laodiceans were deceived by their temporal riches to the point they believed they had no need for Christ. 

We Are Called to Be Responsible With Money

Biblical stewardship is living in the reality that everything we have belongs to God. We are managers, not owners. Wealth is a gift to be used wisely, held loosely, and shared generously.

The question isn’t whether God will bless us with resources. The question is whether those resources will draw us closer to Christ or cause us to live as though we no longer need Him.

The danger occurs when self-sufficiency finds its way into the Church. Jesus looks beyond bank accounts and into hearts. What captures our affection? On whom or what do we depend? Where is our ultimate trust?

Our greatest security must never be found in wealth but in the One who gives it.

A Gift, Not a God 

We live in a culture that celebrates independence, financial success, and self-reliance. We have unprecedented access to wealth, technology, entertainment, and convenience. Yet despite our abundance, we suffer with unprecedented levels of anxiety, loneliness, debt, and spiritual apathy.

Wealth is a gift—not a god. It can meet certain needs but not the most important ones. Everything we own belongs to the Lord, and every blessing should draw us closer to Him, not farther away.

The church in Laodicea wasn’t condemned because it was wealthy but because it no longer recognized its need for Christ. May we never become so financially secure that we fail to depend on the One who provides “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17).

Are you interested in receiving ministry updates from around the world? Do you want helpful and encouraging tools and tips on financial stewardship? Sign up to receive the Crown Newsletter emails by using the form on the homepage at Crown.org.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on July 3, 2026.

The post Ask Chuck: Is the Prosperity Gospel Wrong? appeared first on Crown Financial Ministries.

I hope this article can help those who are caught in the strain of this right now. 

Why Is Healthcare So Expensive?

High costs are due to a combination of factors: advanced medical technology, rising prescription drug costs, administrative complexity, insurance overhead, provider shortages, chronic disease, and an aging population. Unlike most purchases, consumers rarely know prices upfront, which reduces competition and makes it difficult for market forces to control costs.

For a typical family of four with employer-sponsored health insurance, the total annual premium averages about $27,000 per year ($2,250 per month). Employers pay most of that cost. The average employee contribution is about $6,850 per year ($571 per month), with employers covering the remainder. 

Yet premiums are only part of the cost. There are deductibles, copays, coinsurance, prescription costs, and out-of-pocket expenses. When those are included, total annual healthcare costs for a family of four can run over $35,000 (including both employer and employee spending plus out-of-pocket medical expenses). 

Families who purchase insurance without employer assistance find that costs vary widely based on age, location, plan, and income-based subsidies. Unsubsidized marketplace plans for a family of four can easily exceed $1,500–$2,000 per month in premiums alone.

Practical Steps

• Stay in-network, and use preventive care. 

Providers who are out-of-network often charge double in-network rates. Regular checkups, screenings, exercise, healthy eating, and preventative care can reduce long-term healthcare expenses while improving quality of life.

• Understand your coverage. 

Aim to fully understand deductibles, copays, provider networks, and coverage options to avoid overpaying. An annual review helps you make better healthcare decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses.

• Shop for services when possible. 

Prices for medical procedures can vary significantly between providers. For non-emergency care, compare costs, ask for cash-pay discounts, or use price transparency tools to locate substantial savings.

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be valuable. 

The tax advantages help families save for current and future medical expenses. 

• Build your emergency fund. 

Set aside money to prevent healthcare costs from becoming debt burdens.

• Review prescription costs regularly. 

Check out generic medications, discount programs, and mail-order options.

Under- or Uninsured?

For millions of Americans, routine medical care can be financially overwhelming. Thankfully, there are options. 

Health sharing programs can cost 30–50% less than traditional coverage. This can be an excellent option for those without major health conditions. See pros/cons and charts at the link. 

Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer financial assistance programs for low-income and uninsured patients. These can significantly reduce, or in some cases even eliminate, certain medical bills. Simply ask if you qualify.

Community health clinics and federally qualified health centers often provide primary care, screenings, and preventive services on a sliding fee scale based on income. They can be an affordable alternative for ongoing healthcare needs.

Negotiate medical bills. Many providers offer discounts for prompt payment, self-pay patients, or payment plans. 

Lower prescription costs through generic medications, discount programs, manufacturer assistance programs, and pharmacy comparison tools.

Review eligibility for public programs such as Medicaid or state-specific healthcare assistance. Circumstances change, and some families qualify without realizing it.

You may qualify for free or low-cost health insurance. Read this GoodRX report. 

Recently, two of my friends sought medical care out of the United States. While costs may appear much lower at face value, be very careful to determine the overall costs and quality of care before making this choice. 

Medical Billing Errors 

The Patient Advocate Foundation estimates that about half of all medical bills have some kind of mistake. If you suspect an error, dispute the charge. Be persistent and patient. It usually takes several calls to get a resolution. Wait to pay the bill until receiving an explanation of benefits (EOB) or a Medicare Summary Notice. See Kiplinger.com.

Steward Your Health

From a stewardship perspective, caring for our health and that of our family is a God-entrusted responsibility. We cannot control healthcare prices, but we can take wise steps to seek care, ask questions, plan ahead, and use resources applicable to our situation.

Healthcare challenges can feel overwhelming, but small, informed decisions today can make a significant difference tomorrow. As costs continue to rise faster than wages, proactive stewardship through healthy living, emergency savings, understanding insurance options, and planning for medical expenses becomes increasingly important. Addressing health concerns early is usually less expensive than a trip to the emergency room.

Healthcare costs remind us of a stewardship principle that involves planning ahead. “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5 ESV). We cannot control every medical expense, but we can prepare wisely and make informed decisions.

Healthcare costs will likely remain a challenge for many families. Remember to pray and ask the Lord for His help. Many have experienced God’s intervention in healing and provision. We can also do our part with personal diligence, planning, healthy habits, and wise stewardship. My prayer is these steps will ease some of the financial pressure and help you navigate rising costs more effectively. 

If credit card debt is stretching your budget and making healthcare costs feel overwhelming, Christian Credit Counselors can help. As a trusted Crown partner, they provide personalized debt management plans designed to reduce debt, lower financial stress, and help you regain control of your finances.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on June 19, 2026. 

The post Ask Chuck: How to Address the High Cost of Healthcare appeared first on Crown Financial Ministries.

I recently learned that my college freshman is gambling on sports games. He said it is not a big deal, that it is a lot of fun, and that he knows when to quit. Can you write something that I can share with him to address this from a Biblical perspective? 

Concerned About My Son Gambling 

Dear Concerned About My Son Gambling, 

Sports gambling is experiencing explosive growth and is certainly not limited to teenagers. The data is alarming. Just recently, I was able to speak to an old friend who told me the heartbreaking story of his son’s journey to gambling addiction and ultimate victory. More on that to come. Let’s look at the data. 

Explosive Growth

“Today, about 22% of Americans—and 48% of men ages 18–49—report having at least one online sportsbook account.” The American Psychiatric Association estimates that more than a quarter of Americans gamble online every day.

“Before 2018, legal bets on sports totaled less than $5 billion. In just six years, it skyrocketed to $150 billion and sparked a 33 percent spike in gambling addiction,” according to a disturbing article released recently by The Hill. 

Ministry Watch reports: “So, with one in three Americans betting on sports, downloading multiple gambling apps seems to be the latest obsession for men in the U.S., with 52% of men ages 18-49 signed up for accounts with an online sports book, such as DraftKings, Caesars, FanDuel, or BetMGM.”

Governments Want the Revenue

With the 2018 legalization, states expected increased tax revenue but failed to consider the financial ramifications for families. The industry is growing rapidly. Addiction may be one of the contributing factors. 

Many people don’t realize the financial burden of a gambling addiction until it’s too late. There are serious consequences, whether winning or losing. Besides the loss of money, there’s the loss of time and the reward of advancing your career or spending time with your children. Money is gambled away that could have been given to the Kingdom of God, saved, or invested for the future.

Be Direct with Your Son 

Begin by highlighting the risks:

• The integrity of sports – Some athletes have been caught competing in the very games they have wagered on. 
• Addiction – The loss of control can drive people to lose everything dear in their life.
• Mental health impact – Addiction, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and thoughts of suicide are linked with compulsive gambling. 
• Family conflicts and social isolation – Relationships can become strained, hurting meaningful connections with others.
• Financial impact – Gambling can lead to serious financial consequences: debt, savings emptied, college funds depleted, bankruptcy.

How It Starts and Grows

Many of our young people grow up in homes where gambling is practiced. Smartphones, social media, and peers increase their exposure to online gambling. Teens are especially vulnerable because their brains are still developing. They may lack impulse control and the ability for wise decision-making. 

Some platforms run ads 24/7 to lure young people. Those who play games online may be exposed to digital ads for betting sites. Big wins are emphasized, and risks are downplayed, making betting tempting for teens. Those who manage their own bank accounts can quickly lose large sums. 

Intervention from a Loved One

This is where wise parents, grandparents, teachers, pastors, or other influencers can make a difference! Here’s a helpful resource.

Parents can lead by addressing the topic at home. Respectfully ask what they know about gambling. If you’re confronted with TV, radio, or online ads, seize the opportunity to start a conversation. Stop what you’re doing and ask if they understand the point of the ad. Do they think the promises are probable or realistic? Ask what would happen if they risked real money. This question might reveal that they already do. If so, keep the door open through respectful discussion and your concern for their well-being. 

Watch for these warning signs:

• Lying about gambling activity or how money is spent
• Changes in health, nutrition, sleep, and mood 
• Skipping class or work
• Spending less time with friends or family
• Continually asking friends or family to borrow money

Pray and Take Action 

If you sense these warning signs are present, pray and ask the Lord to give you a clear plan to have the conversation or actions needed to help your son. It may be that someone other than yourself is better equipped to have a discussion with them. The goal will be to get them to recognize they are in danger and commit to stop or seek help. 

Sports betting may be on the rise, but in the long run, the house always wins. Always! 

My friend watched his son graduate at the top of his class, begin a professional career in finance and accounting, and steadily develop erratic behavior that led him into an alcohol addiction, the loss of his job, the loss of all of his money, and utter despair. It was through the witness of a close family member that he confessed to his gambling and alcohol addiction and turned his heart back to Christ. He moved in with his parents as a young adult and rebuilt his career and life. 

As Christians, we must not put our trust in money, even money earned through investing. It will lead to our demise. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

“Wealth gained hastily will dwindle,
but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” 

Proverbs 13:11 ESV

Whether you’ve been part of Crown for years or are just discovering us, we’d love for you to be part of our 50th Anniversary Celebration. For five decades, Crown has taught biblical stewardship principles that transform finances, strengthen families, and deepen faith. Lives have been changed. Communities have been empowered. Purpose has been rediscovered. And we’re just getting started!

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on June 5, 2026. 

The post Ask Chuck: Help with Sports Gambling Addiction appeared first on Crown Financial Ministries.