Word of Faith
| Word of Faith | |
|---|---|
| Classification | Evangelicalism |
| Theology | Neo-charismatic movement |
| Founder | E.W. Kenyon, Kenneth Hagin, Kenneth Copeland, Keith Moore |
| Origin | 1980 United States |
Word of Faith (also known as Word-Faith or simply Faith) is a worldwide Christian movement that teaches that Christians can access the power of faith or fear through speech. Its distinctive teachings are found on radio, Internet, television, and in many Charismatic denominations and communities. The basic doctrine preached is wealth and health through the declaration of what the Holy Bible (i.e., the word of God) said with regards to living wealthy and healthy.
Evangelist E.W. Kenyon (1867–1948) is usually given credit as the originator of Word of Faith teaching.
Kenyon's principal disciple was Kenneth Hagin Sr., the recognized "father" of the Word of Faith movement. Hagin (1917–2003) believed that it is God's will that believers would always be in good health, financially successful, and happy.
Hagin's principal disciple was Kenneth Copeland who, with his wife, Gloria, is the unofficial leader of the Word of Faith movement. While Copeland remains the leader of the Word of Faith movement, several newer mass media Word of Faith preachers have eclipsed him in popularity, viz., Joel Osteen, Benny Hinn, Joseph Prince and Joyce Meyer.
The Word of Faith movement has many distinctive teachings including physical, emotional, financial, relational, and spiritual healing or prosperity for any who has the right belief-filled confession. The movement emphasizes choosing to speak the promises and provisions that the speaker wants, that is in agreement with the Bible, as an act of faith and agreement with God's plans and purposes. They believe this is what Jesus meant in Mark 11:22–23, when he said believers shall have whatsoever they say and pray with faith. The term word of faith itself is derived from the biblical passage Romans 10:8 which speaks of the word of faith that we preach.
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