However, the prosperity gospel folks don't linger on the idea that your success or failure is preordained and can't be changed. That isn't a good selling point. So, that Calvinistic idea has been modified, so you can earn God's approval by following the preacher's advice and donating to his "ministry." In return, God will reward you and reveal your true "elect" status.
Whatever works, works. Preachers today are better at marketing than those of the past. Most mega-churches have ties to Calvinism, although those ties are not always transparently presented. The message that "Jesus wants you to prosper" is the only message needed to fleece the flock, apparently.
Today's prosperity gospel ministers are a particularly cynical sort of people, it seems. In their hearts, they have contempt for their flocks, and are certain of their own "election," so it doesn't really matter. They're "good with God!"
I can't stand 'em.
In the Twin Cities, Mac Hammond is a principal preacher in that mold. For at least a couple of years, he had a little spot, "Winner's Minute," that aired during the morning news on WCCO TV. Right after the weather and before the sports, there was Mac, uttering platitudes on the little screen. For some reason, he dropped that this year, at least on WCCO. He's a vile little man, and a big fan of right-wing Republicans, to boot.
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