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{{Infobox religious biography
| name = Joel Osteen
| image = Joel Osteen Preaching At Lakewood Church.jpg
| caption = Joel Osteen preaching at [[Lakewood Church]], August 12, 2018
| religion = [[Non-denominational Christianity]], [[Charismatic Christianity]], [[Evangelical]], [[Word of Faith]]
| denomination =
| church = [[Lakewood Church]]
| nationality = American
| birth_name = Joel Scott Osteen
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1963|3|5}}
| death_date =
| birth_place = [[Houston, Texas]]
| school = [[Humble High School]], [[Texas]]
| alma_mater = [[Oral Roberts University]], [[Oklahoma]]
| spouse = {{marriage|[[Victoria Osteen]] |1987}}
| children = 2
| parents = [[John Osteen]] (father) <br />Dolores Pilgrim Osteen (mother)<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=obits_3413529 |title = Obituary: Pastor John H. Osteen |work = Houston Chronicle |date = January 26, 1999 |accessdate = November 12, 2007 }}</ref>
| title =
| period =
| post = Senior pastor (1999–present)
| website = {{Official website}}
}}
'''Joel Scott Osteen''' (born March 5, 1963)<ref>{{cite web |url = http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/tx/harris/vitals/births/1963/harrb63n.txt |title = Joel Birthday-1963-March-05 |accessdate = May 8, 2007 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20070830035734/http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/tx/harris/vitals/births/1963/harrb63n.txt |archivedate = August 30, 2007 |deadurl = yes |df = }}</ref> is an American [[televangelist]] based in [[Houston, Texas]]. Osteen's televised sermons are seen by over 7 million viewers weekly and over 20 million monthly in over 100 countries.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/sep/05/osteen-still-the-name-leaders-know/ |title = Joel Osteen's still the name leaders know |work = The Washington Times |date = September 5, 2008 }}</ref><ref name=About>{{cite news |title = About Joel |url = http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/AboutJoel.aspx |publisher = Joelosteen.com |accessdate = November 15, 2013 }}</ref>
He is the author of seven books which have been on [[The New York Times Best Seller list|''The New York Times'' Best Seller list]].<ref name=WorldVision>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen |url = http://www.wvartists.org/artist-detail/175127/joel-osteen/ |publisher = World Vision |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref>
== Early life and family ==
Osteen was born in [[Houston, Texas]], and is one of six children of [[John Osteen]] and Dolores ("Dodie") Pilgrim. His father, a former [[Southern Baptist Convention|Southern Baptist]] pastor, founded [[Lakewood Church]], of which Osteen is the current senior pastor, in the back of an old feed store.<ref>[http://www.christnotes.org/_joel-osteen.asp Christ Notes, ''Joel Osteen Books and Ministry''] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625224321/http://www.christnotes.org/_joel-osteen.asp |date=June 25, 2012 }}</ref> He was educated at [[Humble High School]], a public high school in the city of [[Humble, Texas]], from which he graduated in 1981,<ref>{{cite web |url = https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=-dsWCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA113&lpg=PA113&dq=joel+osteen+humble+high+school+1981&source=bl&ots=sdsnug4XKb&sig=_KGsmolSSbFHElVbRKNt5PsKNJk&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjd49nz-v_VAhXPfFAKHZfzCRAQ6AEIOTAG#v=onepage&q=joel%20osteen%20humble%20high%20school%201981&f=false |title = Salvation with a Smile: Joel Osteen, Lakewood Church, and American Christianity |work = NYU Press |author = Phillip Luke Sinitiere |date = November 13, 2015 |accessdate = August 30, 2017 }}</ref> followed by [[Oral Roberts University]] in [[Tulsa, Oklahoma]], where he studied radio and television [[Communication studies|communications]], but did not graduate and did not receive a degree from a [[divinity school]].<ref name=About /><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865587553/Popular-positive-pastor-Joel-Osteen-brings-Night-of-Hope-to-Utah.html?pg=all |title = Popular positive pastor Joel Osteen brings 'Night of Hope' to Utah |date = October 2, 2013 |work = DeseretNews.com |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> In 1982, he returned to Houston and founded Lakewood's television program, where he produced his father's televised sermons for 17 years until January 1999, when his father died unexpectedly from a heart attack.<ref name=About /><ref name=Interview>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen: The Man Behind America's Largest Church |url = http://www.cbn.com/700club/features/amazing/osteen_010408.aspx |publisher = CBN.com |accessdate = November 16, 2013 }}</ref>
== Career ==
Osteen's father encouraged him to preach for many years, but he declined, preferring to work behind the scenes until January 17, 1999, when he accepted his father's suggestion and he preached his first sermon. John Osteen died six days later of a heart attack. Two weeks after his father's death, Osteen began preaching regularly and later that year was installed as the new senior pastor of Lakewood Church on October 3, 1999.<ref name=power>{{cite news |last = Matthieu |first = Jennifer |title = Power House |url = http://www.houstonpress.com/2002-04-04/news/power-house/full/ |accessdate = January 31, 2014 |newspaper = Houston Press |date = April 2, 2002 }}</ref> Since then, Lakewood's attendance has grown from 5,000 to 43,000.<ref name=WorldVision />
In 2003, Lakewood Church acquired the [[Compaq Center (Houston)|Compaq Center]], former home of the [[National Basketball Association|NBA]] [[Houston Rockets]]. Renovations cost $105 million.<ref>{{cite news |last = Somers |first = Meredith |title = Osteen draws 40,000 to Nationals Park |url = http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/apr/29/osteen-draws-40k-to-nationals-park/ |accessdate = January 21, 2014 |newspaper = The Washington Times |date = April 29, 2012 }}</ref> The renovations took over 15 months to complete, and included the addition of five stories to add more capacity.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8565629/ |title = Nation's largest church opens in stadium |agency = Associated Press |publisher = [[MSNBC]] |date = July 17, 2005 |accessdate = March 22, 2010 }}</ref> Lakewood's 2005 grand opening was attended by an estimated 56,000 people, including Texas Governor [[Rick Perry]] and House Minority Leader [[Nancy Pelosi]].<ref>{{cite news |title = God's Stadium |url = http://www.houstonpress.com/2005-07-21/calendar/meet-the-beatle/full/ |work = Houston Press |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref>
Lakewood Church services are seen in over 100 countries.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://joelosteen.lakewood.cc/site/PageServer?pagename=JOM_aboutus |title = Lakewood Church, Joel Osteen Ministries. About Pastors Joel & Victoria |publisher = |accessdate = April 16, 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080729162130/http://joelosteen.lakewood.cc/site/PageServer?pagename=JOM_aboutus |archive-date = July 29, 2008 |dead-url = yes |df = mdy-all }}</ref> Osteen was selected by [[Barbara Walters]] as one of her [[Barbara Walters' 10 Most Fascinating People|10 Most Fascinating People]] of 2006.<ref name=walters>{{cite web |url = http://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=2716887 |title = The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2006 |publisher = ABC |work = 20/20 |date = December 12, 2006 }}</ref><ref name=walters /><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-dubbed-most-fascinating-24002/ |title = Joel Osteen Dubbed 'Most Fascinating' |date = December 11, 2006 |last = Kwon |first = Lillian |publisher = The Christian Post |archive-url = https://archive.is/20130119193830/http://www.christianpost.com/article/20061211/24002_Joel_Osteen_Dubbed_'Most_Fascinating'.htm |archive-date = January 19, 2013 |accessdate = May 27, 2018 |deadurl = unfit }}</ref> Former presidential candidate [[John McCain]] described Osteen as his favorite inspirational author.<ref>{{cite news |title = Jonathan J Tibbs: Just as I Am...A Story of Joel Osteen... |url = http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-991908 |publisher = CNN iReport |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref> The Osteen family attended Easter breakfast hosted by President [[Barack Obama]] at the [[White House]] in 2010.<ref>{{cite news |title = Osteen and others attend White House Easter breakfast |url = http://blog.chron.com/believeitornot/2010/04/osteen-and-others-attend-white-house-easter-breakfast/ |work = Houston Chronicles |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref>
=== Preaching style ===
Osteen's sermon preparation involves memorizing his remarks and listening to himself on tape.<ref>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen: By the numbers and other interesting facts |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-talks-biggest-preaching-mistake-owning-the-room-94667/ |date = April 25, 2013 |work = Christian Post }}</ref>
Osteen says that he chooses to focus more on the goodness of God and on living an obedient life rather than on sin.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,110240,00.html |title = Fox News on Osteen |publisher = Fox News |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> He says that he tries to teach Biblical principles in a simple way, emphasizing the power of love and a positive attitude.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/10/11/60minutes/main3358652.shtml |title = Joel Osteen Answers His Critics |date = October 11, 2007 |publisher = CBS News |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> When asked why he does not focus more on sin, the devil and hell in detail, Osteen stated in an interview with [[CBN News]]:
{{quote|When I grew up, the devil was a reason why I had a headache or the devil was the reason I got mad today. We always blamed the devil. I think today when I say the enemy, I like to make it broader. Sometimes the enemy can be our own thoughts. We've trained ourselves the wrong way. Or the enemy can be our own lack of discipline. Some people preach about hell like you're already going there, and to me the Gospel means 'Good News.' I'd rather say God is a God of mercy. So I think the people already know what they're doing wrong, and I certainly believe in hell. But to me, when I see thousands of people before me, it just doesn't come out of me to say, 'You guys are terrible, and you're going to hell.' I'd rather say that God is a God of mercy. You've got to live an obedient life, but for every mistake you've made, there's mercy there, and I believe we can do better.<ref name=Interview />}}
== Books ==
Osteen's first book, ''[[Your Best Life Now]]: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential'', was released in October 2004, and reached the number 1 position on [[The New York Times Best Seller list|''The New York Times'' Best Seller list]].
He released his second book, titled ''Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day'', in October 2007. It also topped ''The New York Times'' Best Seller list and had a first printing of four million copies.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=3&pid=537606 |title = SimonSays.com |publisher = |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6433682.html?nid=2286 |title = New Osteen Book at Three Million |publisher = |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> Osteen has said that the book focuses more on relationships and not getting stuck where we are in life.<ref>[http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0612/22/lkl.01.html CNN Larry King Live: Interview With Joel and Victoria Osteen.] December 11, 2006. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140829164844/http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0612/22/lkl.01.html |date=August 29, 2014 }}</ref>
== Personal life ==
Osteen married Lakewood Church co-pastor [[Victoria Osteen]] (née Iloff) on April 4, 1987. They have a son and daughter.<ref>[http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/tx/harris/vitals/marriages/1987/harrm87u.txt Rootsweb.com] Vital Records – Harris County, TX – Marriage 1987</ref> His older siblings, Paul, Lisa, and Tamara, and his younger sister, April, are also involved in full-time ministry.<ref>Osteen, Dodie. "Choosing Life: One Day At A Time." New York: Free Press, 2001</ref> His half-brother Justin does missionary work and is based in New York.<ref name=power />
Osteen's 2017 net worth has been reported between $40–60 million.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/christianity/8-richest-pastors-in-america.aspx?p=5 |title = 8 Richest Pastors in America |website = beliefnet.com |accessdate = December 31, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-net-worth-2017-how-rich-is-the-54-year-old-evangelist-197347/ |title = Joel Osteen Net Worth 2017: About the 54-Year-Old Evangelist, Lakewood Church & His River Oaks Home |website = www.christianpost.com |accessdate = December 31, 2017 }}</ref> He lives with his family in a 17,000 square-foot mansion, worth an estimated $10.5 million in River Oaks.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.ibtimes.com/joel-osteen-net-worth-pastor-closes-megachurch-during-hurricane-harvey-2583646 |title = Joel Osteen Net Worth: Pastor Closes Megachurch During Hurricane Harvey |date = August 28, 2017 |website = ibtimes.com |accessdate = December 31, 2017 }}</ref> As senior pastor, Osteen says he draws no salary from the church, which has an annual budget of $70 million.<ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.forbes.com/2009/06/26/joel-osteen-megachurches-business-osteen.html#7728aefa26e9 |title = A Conversation With Joel Osteen |last = Bogan |first = Jesse |work = Forbes |access-date = December 21, 2017 |language = en }}</ref> Instead, he relies on income from book sales.<ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/15/business/media/religious-broadcaster-gets-rich-contract-for-next-book.html |title = Religious Broadcaster Gets Rich Contract for Next Book |last = Wyatt |first = Edward |date = March 15, 2006 |work = The New York Times |access-date = December 21, 2017 |language = en-US |issn = 0362-4331 }}</ref>
== Political and social views ==
Osteen has generally avoided discussing controversial issues such as gay marriage, abortion, and politics.<ref name=walters /><ref name=blumenthal>{{cite news |last = Blumenthal |first = Ralph |title = Joel Osteen's Credo: Eliminate the Negative, Accentuate Prosperity |url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/30/books/30oste.html?pagewanted=all |accessdate = January 5, 2014 |newspaper = The New York Times |date = March 30, 2006 }}</ref> However, when asked, Osteen said that he is opposed to [[same-sex marriage]].<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/02/joel-osteen-being-gay-is-a-sin-fox-news_n_1471247.html |title = Joel Osteen: Being Gay Is A Sin, But I Don't Dislike Gay People |date = May 2, 2012 |work = The Huffington Post |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last = Tapper |first = Jake |title = Televangelist Joel Osteen on the power of Twitter, and same-sex marriage |url = http://thelead.blogs.cnn.com/2013/03/29/televangelist-joel-osteen-on-the-power-of-twitter-and-same-sex-marriage/ |publisher = CNN |date = March 29, 2013 }}</ref><ref name=morgan>{{cite news |accessdate = January 4, 2014 |publisher = CNN |url = http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/bestoftv/2011/01/24/piers.osteen.homosexuality.cnn.html |author = Piers Morgan |date = January 24, 2011 |title = CNN.com Video }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen: 'Homosexuality is a sin' |work = Washington Post |date = January 28, 2011 |first = Elizabeth |last = Tenety |page = B2 }}</ref> Osteen refuses to preach about homosexuality due to his belief that God likes, accepts, and approves of all people.<ref>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen Tells Larry King 'Scripture Says Homosexuality Is A Sin. But I Don't Want To Preach About It' |url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/13/joel-osteen-larry-king-homosexuality_n_4591090.html |publisher = Huffington Post |accessdate = January 19, 2014 |first = Yasmine |last = Hafiz }}</ref> When asked if he thought God approves of homosexuality, Osteen said homosexuality is a sin according to the Scripture, but gay people are welcome in his church. He has said sin is human nature, nobody's perfect, and he is not judging, but God is the judge. Osteen has also stated he believes a person can be freed from a lifestyle of homosexuality; it is a process and God can free anyone of any sin or addiction.<ref name=morgan /> Osteen has also stressed he does not approve of [[homophobia]], but his faith is based on his reading of the Scriptures.<ref name=morgan /> He has said the church has a tendency to become overly focused on single issues (such as homosexuality) to the point of neglecting others.<ref name=walters /><ref name=morgan />
In an interview on [[Fox News]] in 2008 during the [[Republican Party presidential primaries, 2008|Republican Party Presidential primary race]], when discussing whether he thought that [[Mormonism|Mormons]] were [[Christian]]s, Osteen indicated that he believed that they were. He further revealed that he had not studied the religion.<ref name=lite>{{cite news |url = http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,318054,00.html |date = December 23, 2007 |accessdate = May 13, 2011 |title = Transcript: Pastor Joel Osteen on 'FNS' |quote = Now, as with most successful people, you have critics who say that what you offer is gospel 'lite,' the prosperity gospel. |publisher = [[FOX News]] }}</ref> In an interview in 2011, Osteen stated his support for [[Israel]].<ref>{{cite web |url = http://jewishjournal.com/culture/religion/86975/ |title = Joel Osteen, Israel and the Jews: an exclusive Q&A — Jewish Journal |first = |last = JewishJournal.com |date = January 19, 2011 |publisher = }}</ref>
== Prosperity gospel criticism ==
Osteen's sermons and writings are sometimes criticized for promoting [[prosperity theology]], or the prosperity gospel, a belief that the reward of material gain is the will of God for all pious Christians.<ref name=blumenthal /><ref name=lite /><ref>{{cite book |author = [[Stephen Brooks (academic)|Stephen Brooks]] |title = American Exceptionalism in the Age of Obama |year = 2013 |page = 51 |quote = ... Joel Osteen and T. D. Jakes, the most prominent contemporary messengers of the prosperity gospel ... |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=r8fqsvHcRAcC&pg=PA51&dq=Osteen+PROSPERITY+GOSPEL&hl=en&sa=X&ei=Q7QLVe7bB-aIsQSQ0oDoDA&ved=0CDUQ6AEwAjgU#v=onepage&q=Osteen%20PROSPERITY%20GOSPEL&f=false }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title = Does God Want You to Be Rich? |url = http://content.time.com/time/printout/0,8816,1533448,00.html |quote = 'Does God want us to be rich?' [Osteen] asks. 'When I hear that word rich, I think people say, 'Well, he's preaching that everybody's going to be a millionaire.' I don't think that's it.' Rather, [Osteen] explains, 'I preach that anybody can improve their lives. I think God wants us to be prosperous. I think he wants us to be happy. To me, you need to have money to pay your bills. I think God wants us to send our kids to college. I think he wants us to be a blessing to other people. But I don't think I'd say God wants us to be rich. It's all relative, isn't it?' ... |newspaper = [[Time (magazine)|Time]] |date = September 10, 2006 |accessdate = March 19, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author = [[Cathleen Falsani]] |title = The Prosperity Gospel |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/special/opinions/outlook/worst-ideas/prosperity-gospel.html |quote = 'God wants us to prosper financially, to have plenty of money, to fulfill the destiny He has laid out for us,' Osteen wrote in a 2005 letter to his flock.... |newspaper = [[Washington Post]] |date = |accessdate = March 19, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.bloomberg.com/bw/stories/2005-05-22/online-extra-meet-the-prosperity-preacher |title = Meet the Prosperity Preacher |quote = Osteen is also a leading proponent of what is sometimes called the 'prosperity gospel', which teaches that God wants people to prosper in all areas of their lives—including material success. |date = May 23, 2005 |work = [[Business Week]] |accessdate = March 19, 2015 }}</ref><ref>Pastor Rick Henderson, [http://www.huffingtonpost.com/pastor-rick-henderson/osteen-meyer-prosperity-gospel_b_3790384.html The False Promise of the Prosperity Gospel: Why I Called Out Joel Osteen and Joyce Meyer], ''The Huffington Post'', 2013.08.21</ref> On October 14, 2007, ''[[60 Minutes]]'' ran a twelve-minute segment on Osteen, titled "Joel Osteen Answers his Critics", during which [[Reformed]] theologian [[Michael Horton (theologian)|Michael Horton]] told [[CBS News]] correspondent [[Byron Pitts]] that Osteen's message is [[Christian heresy|heresy]]. Horton stated that the problem with Osteen's message is that it makes religion about us instead of about God.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/10/11/60minutes/main3358652.shtml |date = October 14, 2007 |accessdate = May 13, 2011 |title = Joel Osteen Answers his Critics |publisher = CBS News ''[[60 Minutes]]'' }}</ref>
When asked if he is a prosperity teacher, Osteen responded that if prosperity means God wants people to be blessed and healthy and have good relationships, then he considers himself a prosperity teacher, but if it is about money, he does not. He has specifically stated that he never preaches about money because of the reputation of [[televangelist]]s.<ref name=Interview />
In an interview with [[The Christian Post]] on April 21, 2013, Osteen expressed his sentiments on being perceived as being part of the prosperity gospel. "I get grouped into the prosperity gospel and I never think it's fair, but it's just what it is. I think prosperity, and I've said it 1,000 times, it's being healthy, it's having great children, it's having peace of mind. Money is part of it; and yes, I believe God wants us to excel ... to be blessed so we can be a bigger blessing to others. I feel very rewarded. I wrote a book and sold millions of copies; and Victoria and I were able to help more people than we ever dreamed of. But when I hear the term prosperity gospel, I think people are sometimes saying, 'Well, he's just asking for money'."<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/interview-joel-osteen-on-life-tragedy-and-why-he-shuns-prosperity-gospel-label-94355/ |title = Interview: Joel Osteen on Life, Tragedy and Why He Shuns 'Prosperity Gospel' Label |work = Christian Post }}</ref>
== Controversies ==
=== Hurricane Harvey response ===
During the immediate aftermath of [[Hurricane Harvey]] in August 2017, Osteen received significant criticism in response to not making Lakewood Church, a 606,000-square-foot, 16,000-seat former basketball arena, available as an emergency shelter for those displaced by the storm.<ref name="WaPo_083017">{{cite news |last1 = Kuzydym |first1 = Stephanie |title = Joel Osteen calls claim he shut church doors on Harvey victims 'a false narrative' |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2017/08/29/we-were-never-closed-joel-osteens-houston-megachurch-disputes-claims-it-shut-its-doors/ |accessdate = September 8, 2017 |publisher = [[Washington Post]] |date = August 30, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="NYT_082917">{{cite news |last1 = Bromwich |first1 = Jonah Engel |title = Joel Osteen Says Lakewood Church Is Open to Harvey Victims After Criticism |url = https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/29/us/joel-osteen-backlash-church.html?mcubz=0&_r=0 |accessdate = September 8, 2011 |publisher = [[New York Times]] |date = August 29, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="Newsweek_082817">{{cite news |last1 = Sinclair |first1 = Harriet |title = Is Joel Osteen's megachurch too flooded to help hurricane Harvey victims? |url = http://www.newsweek.com/televangelist-joel-osteen-flood-hurricane-harvey-656163 |accessdate = September 8, 2017 |publisher = [[Newsweek]] |date = August 8, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="LAT_092917">{{cite news |last1 = Associated Press |title = After criticism, televangelist Joel Osteen denies closing Houston megachurch to people seeking shelter |url = http://www.latimes.com/nation/nationnow/la-na-joel-osteen-houston-megachurch-harvey-20170829-htmlstory.html |accessdate = September 8, 2017 |publisher = [[Los Angeles Times]] |date = August 29, 2017 }}</ref><ref name=Tribune>{{cite web |url = http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/ct-joel-osteen-megachurch-harvey-victims-20170830-story.html |title = Joel Osteen pushes back against accusations he closed his megachurch to Harvey victims |author = Kuzydym, Stephanie; Phillips, Christine |work = The Chicago Tribune |date = August 30, 2017 |accessdate = August 30, 2017 }}</ref> On August 27, posts from the church and a Lakewood Church associate pastor's social media accounts stated that the church was "inaccessible due to severe flooding,"<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodChurch/posts/10155840984515864 |title = Lakewood Church |website = www.facebook.com |language = en |accessdate = September 19, 2017 }}<br />{{Cite news |url = http://www.holykoolaid.com/secular-vs-religious-charity/ |title = Why you should NEVER give to a religious charity |date = September 17, 2017 |work = Holy Koolaid |accessdate = September 19, 2017 |language = en-US }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.fox13news.com/news/277145632-story |title = Joel Osteen's megachurch blasted for lack of outreach during Houston flooding |work = Fox 13 News |date = August 29, 2017 |accessdate = August 30, 2017 }}<br />{{cite web |url = http://scng-dash.digitalfirstmedia.com/2017/08/29/joel-osteen-houston-megachurch-to-shelter-people-if-needed/ |title = Joel Osteen's Houston megachurch opens doors as shelter after pastor slammed by critics |date = August 29, 2017 |website = Redlands Daily Facts |accessdate = September 9, 2017 }}</ref> Osteen countered the claim that flood waters closed the church, saying "the church has been open from the beginning," and, "We've always been open … How this notion got started, that we're not a shelter and we're not taking people in is a false narrative."<ref name=Tribune /><ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2017/08/29/we-were-never-closed-joel-osteens-houston-megachurch-disputes-claims-it-shut-its-doors/ |title = Joel Osteen calls claim he shut church doors on Harvey victims 'a false narrative' |newspaper = Washington Post |accessdate = September 9, 2017 }}</ref> This contradicted his earlier statement that the church would open when other refugee centers were full.<ref name=Tribune /><ref>{{cite web |url = http://metro.co.uk/2017/08/29/joel-osteen-opens-his-megachurch-for-shelter-after-video-showing-it-empty-6888322/ |title = Pastor opens his megachurch for shelter after video showing it empty |first = Oliver |last = McAteer |date = August 29, 2017 |website = Metro |accessdate = September 9, 2017 }}<br />{{cite news |url = http://heavy.com/news/2017/08/joel-osteen-wikipedia-summary-trolled-vandalized-hurricane-harvey-lakewood-church-photo-screenshot/ |title = PHOTO: Joel Osteen's Wikipedia Trolled Over Church's Response to Hurricane Harvey |last = Prince |first = S.J. |date = August 29, 2017 |work = Heavy.com |accessdate = September 9, 2017 |language = en-US }}</ref> In a subsequent interview, Lakewood spokesperson Don Iloff stated that the building itself had been flooded during the weekend, with water getting close to spilling over the facility's floodgate. Taking in a crowd of storm evacuees over would've been unsafe, although Iloff maintained that the church's doors were never closed. He also stated that pictures supposedly showing Lakewood free of flooding were taken on Monday, after the flood waters had lowered.<ref>{{Cite news |url = http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/ct-joel-osteen-megachurch-harvey-victims-20170830-story.html |title = Joel Osteen pushes back against accusations he closed his megachurch to Harvey victims |last = Phillips |first = Stephanie Kuzydym, Kristine |work = chicagotribune.com |access-date = July 27, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.inquisitr.com/4469615/joel-osteen-responds-to-criticisms-over-closing-lakewood-church-amid-hurricane-harvey/ |title = Hurricane Harvey Flood: Joel Osteen Didn’t Turn People Away, Says There Was Safety Issue At Lakewood Church |date = August 31, 2017 |work = The Inquisitr |access-date = July 27, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref> On the evening of August 28, it was announced by Lakewood that it would open at noon the next day as an available shelter, opening to storm victims and emergency personnel on August 29.<ref name=Tribune />
On August 15, 2018, less than a year after Harvey struck, the City of Houston and Mayor [[Sylvester Turner]] proclaimed a day in honor of Lakewood and Osteen's assistance in rebuild efforts across the Houston area.<ref>{{Cite news |url = https://abc13.com/society/joel-osteen-honored-by-city-of-houston-for-post-harvey-help/3957138/ |title = Joel Osteen honored by city of Houston for post-Harvey help |date = August 14, 2018 |work = ABC13 Houston |access-date = August 15, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/2018/08/14/300096/lakewood-church-receives-mayors-proclamation-for-harvey-support-after-initial-criticism/|title=Lakewood Church Receives Mayor’s Proclamation for Harvey Support – After Initial Criticism {{!}} Houston Public Media|last=Martin|first=Florian|date=August 14, 2018|work=Houston Public Media|access-date=August 15, 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> It stated Lakewood and its pastors have provided ''"assistance to more than 1,150 Houston-area families whose homes were damaged or destroyed by floodwaters"'' and bought ''"1.1 million dollars in building materials, furniture, appliances, and paid labor, as well as through the contribution of more than 2,500 volunteers".''<ref>{{Cite news |url = http://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/pastor-osteen-recognized-for-his-work-during-hurricane-harvey-with-surprise-proclamation |title = Lakewood Church pastors recognized for work during Hurricane Harvey |last = FOX |work = KSAZ |access-date = August 15, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref>
== Lawsuits ==
In 2011 Osteen and Lakewood Church were sued by the band [[The American Dollar (band)|The American Dollar]] for copyright infringement.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-church-sued-by-band-for-3m-54585/ |title = Joel Osteen, Church Sued by Band for $3M |publisher = Christian Post }}</ref> A judge in 2012 ruled in favor of Osteen, but gave The American Dollar leave to amend the case.<ref>{{cite new |url = http://www.houstonpress.com/news/joel-osteen-and-lakewood-mostly-win-copyright-suit-filed-by-indie-duo-6726800 |title = Joel Osteen & Lakewood Mostly Win Copyright Suit Filed by Indie Duo |publisher = Houston Press }}</ref>
In March 2017, a family filed a lawsuit against Lakewood Church and Osteen claiming their 18-month-old daughter suffered injuries following an altercation at the church in May 2014. Lakewood Church said it was unable to confirm the story, and the suit was settled by the church's insurance company.<ref>{{cite new |url = https://www.click2houston.com/news/lakewood-church-facing-lawsuit-after-family-says-young-child-hurt-during-service |title = Lakewood Church, Joel Osteen facing lawsuit after family says young child hurt during service |publisher = click2houston.com }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = https://hellochristian.com/6976-joel-osteen-sued-after-church-staff-body-slams-young-child-during-service |title = Joel Osteen Sued After Church Staff 'Body-Slams' Young Child During Service |publisher = Hello Christian }}</ref>
== Bibliography ==
* ''[[Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential]]'' (2004)
* ''Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day'' (2007)<ref>{{cite web |url = https://bookpage.com/reviews/5395-joel-osteen-become-better-you#.V1cbPpMrJE4 |title = Joel Osteen – Become A Better You – Book Review |publisher = |accessdate = April 16, 2017 }}</ref>
* ''Your Best Life Begins Each Morning: Devotions to Start Every Day of the Year'' (2008)
* ''Good, Better, Blessed: Living with Purpose, Power and Passion'' (2008)
* ''Hope for Today Bible'' (2009)
* ''It's Your Time : Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God's Favor'' (2009)<ref>{{cite web |url = https://books.google.com/books/about/It_s_Your_Time.html?id=qRxZPgAACAAJ |title = It's Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Anticipate God's Favor |first = Joel |last = Osteen |date = October 1, 2009 |publisher = Simon & Schuster, Limited |accessdate = April 16, 2017 |via = Google Books }}</ref>
* ''Living in Favor, Abundance and Joy'' (2010)
* ''Every Day a Friday: How to Be Happier 7 Days a Week'' (2011)<ref>{{cite web |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=Jk_o7waUbJcC&dq=every%20day%20a%20friday%20joel%20osteen&source=gbs_navlinks_s |title = Every Day a Friday: How to Be Happier 7 Days a Week |first = Joel |last = Osteen |date = September 13, 2011 |publisher = FaithWords |accessdate = April 16, 2017 |via = Google Books }}</ref>
* ''I Declare: 31 Promises to Speak Over Your Life'' (2012)
* ''Break Out!: 5 Keys to Go Beyond Your Barriers and Live an Extraordinary Life'' (2013)
* ''You Can, You Will: 8 Undeniable Qualities of a Winner'' (2014)
* ''The Power of I Am: Two Words That Will Change Your Life Today'' (2015)
* ''Think Better, Live Better: A Victorious Life Begins in Your Mind '' (2016)
* ''Blessed in the Darkness: How All Things Are Working for Your Good '' (2017)
== See also ==
* [[Christianity in Houston]]
* [[Charismatic movement]]
* [[Gospel of success]]
* [[Word of Faith]]
== References ==
{{reflist|30em}}
== External links ==
* {{Official website}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Osteen, Joel}}
[[Category:20th-century American non-fiction writers]]
[[Category:20th-century American male writers]]
[[Category:20th-century Protestant religious leaders]]
[[Category:21st-century American non-fiction writers]]
[[Category:21st-century Protestant religious leaders]]
[[Category:1963 births]]
[[Category:American Charismatics]]
[[Category:American Christian writers]]
[[Category:American evangelicals]]
[[Category:American Pentecostal pastors]]
[[Category:American self-help writers]]
[[Category:American television evangelists]]
[[Category:Intelligent design advocates]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Oral Roberts University alumni]]
[[Category:Pentecostal writers]]
[[Category:Pentecostals from Texas]]
[[Category:Religious leaders from Texas]]
[[Category:Writers from Houston]]
[[Category:American male non-fiction writers]]
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2018}}
{{Use American English|date=September 2018}}
{{Infobox religious biography
| name = Joel Osteen
| image = Joel Osteen Preaching At Lakewood Church.jpg
| caption = Joel Osteen preaching at [[Lakewood Church]], August 12, 2018
| religion = [[Non-denominational Christianity]], [[Charismatic Christianity]], [[Evangelical]], [[Word of Faith]]
| denomination =
| church = [[Lakewood Church]]
| nationality = American
| birth_name = Joel Scott Osteen
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1963|3|5}}
| death_date =
| birth_place = [[Houston, Texas]]
| school = [[Humble High School]], [[Texas]]
| alma_mater = [[Oral Roberts University]], [[Oklahoma]]
| spouse = {{marriage|[[Victoria Osteen]] |1987}}
| children = 2
| parents = [[John Osteen]] (father) <br />Dolores Pilgrim Osteen (mother)<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.chron.com/CDA/archives/archive.mpl?id=obits_3413529 |title = Obituary: Pastor John H. Osteen |work = Houston Chronicle |date = January 26, 1999 |accessdate = November 12, 2007 }}</ref>
| title =
| period =
| post = Senior pastor (1999–present)
| website = {{Official website}}
}}
'''Joel Scott Osteen''' (born March 5, 1963)<ref>{{cite web |url = http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/tx/harris/vitals/births/1963/harrb63n.txt |title = Joel Birthday-1963-March-05 |accessdate = May 8, 2007 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20070830035734/http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/tx/harris/vitals/births/1963/harrb63n.txt |archivedate = August 30, 2007 |deadurl = yes |df = }}</ref> is an American [[televangelist]] based in [[Houston, Texas]]. Osteen's televised sermons are seen by over 7 million viewers weekly and over 20 million monthly in over 100 countries.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/sep/05/osteen-still-the-name-leaders-know/ |title = Joel Osteen's still the name leaders know |work = The Washington Times |date = September 5, 2008 }}</ref><ref name=About>{{cite news |title = About Joel |url = http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/AboutJoel.aspx |publisher = Joelosteen.com |accessdate = November 15, 2013 }}</ref>
He is the author of seven books which have been on [[The New York Times Best Seller list|''The New York Times'' Best Seller list]].<ref name=WorldVision>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen |url = http://www.wvartists.org/artist-detail/175127/joel-osteen/ |publisher = World Vision |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref>
== Early life and family ==
Osteen was born in [[Houston, Texas]], and is one of six children of [[John Osteen]] and Dolores ("Dodie") Pilgrim. His father, a former [[Southern Baptist Convention|Southern Baptist]] pastor, founded [[Lakewood Church]], of which Osteen is the current senior pastor, in the back of an old feed store.<ref>[http://www.christnotes.org/_joel-osteen.asp Christ Notes, ''Joel Osteen Books and Ministry''] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625224321/http://www.christnotes.org/_joel-osteen.asp |date=June 25, 2012 }}</ref> He was educated at [[Humble High School]], a public high school in the city of [[Humble, Texas]], from which he graduated in 1981,<ref>{{cite web |url = https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=-dsWCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA113&lpg=PA113&dq=joel+osteen+humble+high+school+1981&source=bl&ots=sdsnug4XKb&sig=_KGsmolSSbFHElVbRKNt5PsKNJk&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjd49nz-v_VAhXPfFAKHZfzCRAQ6AEIOTAG#v=onepage&q=joel%20osteen%20humble%20high%20school%201981&f=false |title = Salvation with a Smile: Joel Osteen, Lakewood Church, and American Christianity |work = NYU Press |author = Phillip Luke Sinitiere |date = November 13, 2015 |accessdate = August 30, 2017 }}</ref> followed by [[Oral Roberts University]] in [[Tulsa, Oklahoma]], where he studied radio and television [[Communication studies|communications]], but did not graduate and did not receive a degree from a [[divinity school]].<ref name=About /><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865587553/Popular-positive-pastor-Joel-Osteen-brings-Night-of-Hope-to-Utah.html?pg=all |title = Popular positive pastor Joel Osteen brings 'Night of Hope' to Utah |date = October 2, 2013 |work = DeseretNews.com |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> In 1982, he returned to Houston and founded Lakewood's television program, where he produced his father's televised sermons for 17 years until January 1999, when his father died unexpectedly from a heart attack.<ref name=About /><ref name=Interview>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen: The Man Behind America's Largest Church |url = http://www.cbn.com/700club/features/amazing/osteen_010408.aspx |publisher = CBN.com |accessdate = November 16, 2013 }}</ref>
== Career ==
Osteen's father encouraged him to preach for many years, but he declined, preferring to work behind the scenes until January 17, 1999, when he accepted his father's suggestion and he preached his first sermon. John Osteen died six days later of a heart attack. Two weeks after his father's death, Osteen began preaching regularly and later that year was installed as the new senior pastor of Lakewood Church on October 3, 1999.<ref name=power>{{cite news |last = Matthieu |first = Jennifer |title = Power House |url = http://www.houstonpress.com/2002-04-04/news/power-house/full/ |accessdate = January 31, 2014 |newspaper = Houston Press |date = April 2, 2002 }}</ref> Since then, Lakewood's attendance has grown from 5,000 to 43,000.<ref name=WorldVision />
In 2003, Lakewood Church acquired the [[Compaq Center (Houston)|Compaq Center]], former home of the [[National Basketball Association|NBA]] [[Houston Rockets]]. Renovations cost $105 million.<ref>{{cite news |last = Somers |first = Meredith |title = Osteen draws 40,000 to Nationals Park |url = http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/apr/29/osteen-draws-40k-to-nationals-park/ |accessdate = January 21, 2014 |newspaper = The Washington Times |date = April 29, 2012 }}</ref> The renovations took over 15 months to complete, and included the addition of five stories to add more capacity.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8565629/ |title = Nation's largest church opens in stadium |agency = Associated Press |publisher = [[MSNBC]] |date = July 17, 2005 |accessdate = March 22, 2010 }}</ref> Lakewood's 2005 grand opening was attended by an estimated 56,000 people, including Texas Governor [[Rick Perry]] and House Minority Leader [[Nancy Pelosi]].<ref>{{cite news |title = God's Stadium |url = http://www.houstonpress.com/2005-07-21/calendar/meet-the-beatle/full/ |work = Houston Press |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref>
Lakewood Church services are seen in over 100 countries.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://joelosteen.lakewood.cc/site/PageServer?pagename=JOM_aboutus |title = Lakewood Church, Joel Osteen Ministries. About Pastors Joel & Victoria |publisher = |accessdate = April 16, 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080729162130/http://joelosteen.lakewood.cc/site/PageServer?pagename=JOM_aboutus |archive-date = July 29, 2008 |dead-url = yes |df = mdy-all }}</ref> Osteen was selected by [[Barbara Walters]] as one of her [[Barbara Walters' 10 Most Fascinating People|10 Most Fascinating People]] of 2006.<ref name=walters>{{cite web |url = http://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=2716887 |title = The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2006 |publisher = ABC |work = 20/20 |date = December 12, 2006 }}</ref><ref name=walters /><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-dubbed-most-fascinating-24002/ |title = Joel Osteen Dubbed 'Most Fascinating' |date = December 11, 2006 |last = Kwon |first = Lillian |publisher = The Christian Post |archive-url = https://archive.is/20130119193830/http://www.christianpost.com/article/20061211/24002_Joel_Osteen_Dubbed_'Most_Fascinating'.htm |archive-date = January 19, 2013 |accessdate = May 27, 2018 |deadurl = unfit }}</ref> Former presidential candidate [[John McCain]] described Osteen as his favorite inspirational author.<ref>{{cite news |title = Jonathan J Tibbs: Just as I Am...A Story of Joel Osteen... |url = http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-991908 |publisher = CNN iReport |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref> The Osteen family attended Easter breakfast hosted by President [[Barack Obama]] at the [[White House]] in 2010.<ref>{{cite news |title = Osteen and others attend White House Easter breakfast |url = http://blog.chron.com/believeitornot/2010/04/osteen-and-others-attend-white-house-easter-breakfast/ |work = Houston Chronicles |accessdate = February 16, 2014 }}</ref>
=== Preaching style ===
Osteen's sermon preparation involves memorizing his remarks and listening to himself on tape.<ref>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen: By the numbers and other interesting facts |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-talks-biggest-preaching-mistake-owning-the-room-94667/ |date = April 25, 2013 |work = Christian Post }}</ref>
Osteen says that he chooses to focus more on the goodness of God and on living an obedient life rather than on sin.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,110240,00.html |title = Fox News on Osteen |publisher = Fox News |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> He says that he tries to teach Biblical principles in a simple way, emphasizing the power of love and a positive attitude.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/10/11/60minutes/main3358652.shtml |title = Joel Osteen Answers His Critics |date = October 11, 2007 |publisher = CBS News |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> When asked why he does not focus more on sin, the devil and hell in detail, Osteen stated in an interview with [[CBN News]]:
{{quote|When I grew up, the devil was a reason why I had a headache or the devil was the reason I got mad today. We always blamed the devil. I think today when I say the enemy, I like to make it broader. Sometimes the enemy can be our own thoughts. We've trained ourselves the wrong way. Or the enemy can be our own lack of discipline. Some people preach about hell like you're already going there, and to me the Gospel means 'Good News.' I'd rather say God is a God of mercy. So I think the people already know what they're doing wrong, and I certainly believe in hell. But to me, when I see thousands of people before me, it just doesn't come out of me to say, 'You guys are terrible, and you're going to hell.' I'd rather say that God is a God of mercy. You've got to live an obedient life, but for every mistake you've made, there's mercy there, and I believe we can do better.<ref name=Interview />}}
== Books ==
Osteen's first book, ''[[Your Best Life Now]]: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential'', was released in October 2004, and reached the number 1 position on [[The New York Times Best Seller list|''The New York Times'' Best Seller list]].
He released his second book, titled ''Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day'', in October 2007. It also topped ''The New York Times'' Best Seller list and had a first printing of four million copies.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.simonsays.com/content/book.cfm?tab=3&pid=537606 |title = SimonSays.com |publisher = |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6433682.html?nid=2286 |title = New Osteen Book at Three Million |publisher = |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref> Osteen has said that the book focuses more on relationships and not getting stuck where we are in life.<ref>[http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0612/22/lkl.01.html CNN Larry King Live: Interview With Joel and Victoria Osteen.] December 11, 2006. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140829164844/http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0612/22/lkl.01.html |date=August 29, 2014 }}</ref>
== Personal life ==
Osteen married Lakewood Church co-pastor [[Victoria Osteen]] (née Iloff) on April 4, 1987. They have a son and daughter.<ref>[http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/tx/harris/vitals/marriages/1987/harrm87u.txt Rootsweb.com] Vital Records – Harris County, TX – Marriage 1987</ref> His older siblings, Paul, Lisa, and Tamara, and his younger sister, April, are also involved in full-time ministry.<ref>Osteen, Dodie. "Choosing Life: One Day At A Time." New York: Free Press, 2001</ref> His half-brother Justin does missionary work and is based in New York.<ref name=power />
Osteen's 2017 net worth has been reported between $40–60 million.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/christianity/8-richest-pastors-in-america.aspx?p=5 |title = 8 Richest Pastors in America |website = beliefnet.com |accessdate = December 31, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-net-worth-2017-how-rich-is-the-54-year-old-evangelist-197347/ |title = Joel Osteen Net Worth 2017: About the 54-Year-Old Evangelist, Lakewood Church & His River Oaks Home |website = www.christianpost.com |accessdate = December 31, 2017 }}</ref> He lives with his family in a 17,000 square-foot mansion, worth an estimated $10.5 million in River Oaks.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.ibtimes.com/joel-osteen-net-worth-pastor-closes-megachurch-during-hurricane-harvey-2583646 |title = Joel Osteen Net Worth: Pastor Closes Megachurch During Hurricane Harvey |date = August 28, 2017 |website = ibtimes.com |accessdate = December 31, 2017 }}</ref> As senior pastor, Osteen says he draws no salary from the church, which has an annual budget of $70 million.<ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.forbes.com/2009/06/26/joel-osteen-megachurches-business-osteen.html#7728aefa26e9 |title = A Conversation With Joel Osteen |last = Bogan |first = Jesse |work = Forbes |access-date = December 21, 2017 |language = en }}</ref> Instead, he relies on income from book sales.<ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/15/business/media/religious-broadcaster-gets-rich-contract-for-next-book.html |title = Religious Broadcaster Gets Rich Contract for Next Book |last = Wyatt |first = Edward |date = March 15, 2006 |work = The New York Times |access-date = December 21, 2017 |language = en-US |issn = 0362-4331 }}</ref>
== Political and social views ==
Osteen has generally avoided discussing controversial issues such as gay marriage, abortion, and politics.<ref name=walters /><ref name=blumenthal>{{cite news |last = Blumenthal |first = Ralph |title = Joel Osteen's Credo: Eliminate the Negative, Accentuate Prosperity |url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/30/books/30oste.html?pagewanted=all |accessdate = January 5, 2014 |newspaper = The New York Times |date = March 30, 2006 }}</ref> However, when asked, Osteen said that he is opposed to [[same-sex marriage]].<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/02/joel-osteen-being-gay-is-a-sin-fox-news_n_1471247.html |title = Joel Osteen: Being Gay Is A Sin, But I Don't Dislike Gay People |date = May 2, 2012 |work = The Huffington Post |accessdate = September 20, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last = Tapper |first = Jake |title = Televangelist Joel Osteen on the power of Twitter, and same-sex marriage |url = http://thelead.blogs.cnn.com/2013/03/29/televangelist-joel-osteen-on-the-power-of-twitter-and-same-sex-marriage/ |publisher = CNN |date = March 29, 2013 }}</ref><ref name=morgan>{{cite news |accessdate = January 4, 2014 |publisher = CNN |url = http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/bestoftv/2011/01/24/piers.osteen.homosexuality.cnn.html |author = Piers Morgan |date = January 24, 2011 |title = CNN.com Video }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen: 'Homosexuality is a sin' |work = Washington Post |date = January 28, 2011 |first = Elizabeth |last = Tenety |page = B2 }}</ref> Osteen refuses to preach about homosexuality due to his belief that God likes, accepts, and approves of all people.<ref>{{cite news |title = Joel Osteen Tells Larry King 'Scripture Says Homosexuality Is A Sin. But I Don't Want To Preach About It' |url = http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/13/joel-osteen-larry-king-homosexuality_n_4591090.html |publisher = Huffington Post |accessdate = January 19, 2014 |first = Yasmine |last = Hafiz }}</ref> When asked if he thought God approves of homosexuality, Osteen said homosexuality is a sin according to the Scripture, but gay people are welcome in his church. He has said sin is human nature, nobody's perfect, and he is not judging, but God is the judge. Osteen has also stated he believes a person can be freed from a lifestyle of homosexuality; it is a process and God can free anyone of any sin or addiction.<ref name=morgan /> Osteen has also stressed he does not approve of [[homophobia]], but his faith is based on his reading of the Scriptures.<ref name=morgan /> He has said the church has a tendency to become overly focused on single issues (such as homosexuality) to the point of neglecting others.<ref name=walters /><ref name=morgan />
In an interview on [[Fox News]] in 2008 during the [[Republican Party presidential primaries, 2008|Republican Party Presidential primary race]], when discussing whether he thought that [[Mormonism|Mormons]] were [[Christian]]s, Osteen indicated that he believed that they were. He further revealed that he had not studied the religion.<ref name=lite>{{cite news |url = http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,318054,00.html |date = December 23, 2007 |accessdate = May 13, 2011 |title = Transcript: Pastor Joel Osteen on 'FNS' |quote = Now, as with most successful people, you have critics who say that what you offer is gospel 'lite,' the prosperity gospel. |publisher = [[FOX News]] }}</ref> In an interview in 2011, Osteen stated his support for [[Israel]].<ref>{{cite web |url = http://jewishjournal.com/culture/religion/86975/ |title = Joel Osteen, Israel and the Jews: an exclusive Q&A — Jewish Journal |first = |last = JewishJournal.com |date = January 19, 2011 |publisher = }}</ref>
== Prosperity gospel criticism ==
Osteen's sermons and writings are sometimes criticized for promoting [[prosperity theology]], or the prosperity gospel, a belief that the reward of material gain is the will of God for all pious Christians.<ref name=blumenthal /><ref name=lite /><ref>{{cite book |author = [[Stephen Brooks (academic)|Stephen Brooks]] |title = American Exceptionalism in the Age of Obama |year = 2013 |page = 51 |quote = ... Joel Osteen and T. D. Jakes, the most prominent contemporary messengers of the prosperity gospel ... |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=r8fqsvHcRAcC&pg=PA51&dq=Osteen+PROSPERITY+GOSPEL&hl=en&sa=X&ei=Q7QLVe7bB-aIsQSQ0oDoDA&ved=0CDUQ6AEwAjgU#v=onepage&q=Osteen%20PROSPERITY%20GOSPEL&f=false }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title = Does God Want You to Be Rich? |url = http://content.time.com/time/printout/0,8816,1533448,00.html |quote = 'Does God want us to be rich?' [Osteen] asks. 'When I hear that word rich, I think people say, 'Well, he's preaching that everybody's going to be a millionaire.' I don't think that's it.' Rather, [Osteen] explains, 'I preach that anybody can improve their lives. I think God wants us to be prosperous. I think he wants us to be happy. To me, you need to have money to pay your bills. I think God wants us to send our kids to college. I think he wants us to be a blessing to other people. But I don't think I'd say God wants us to be rich. It's all relative, isn't it?' ... |newspaper = [[Time (magazine)|Time]] |date = September 10, 2006 |accessdate = March 19, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author = [[Cathleen Falsani]] |title = The Prosperity Gospel |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/special/opinions/outlook/worst-ideas/prosperity-gospel.html |quote = 'God wants us to prosper financially, to have plenty of money, to fulfill the destiny He has laid out for us,' Osteen wrote in a 2005 letter to his flock.... |newspaper = [[Washington Post]] |date = |accessdate = March 19, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.bloomberg.com/bw/stories/2005-05-22/online-extra-meet-the-prosperity-preacher |title = Meet the Prosperity Preacher |quote = Osteen is also a leading proponent of what is sometimes called the 'prosperity gospel', which teaches that God wants people to prosper in all areas of their lives—including material success. |date = May 23, 2005 |work = [[Business Week]] |accessdate = March 19, 2015 }}</ref><ref>Pastor Rick Henderson, [http://www.huffingtonpost.com/pastor-rick-henderson/osteen-meyer-prosperity-gospel_b_3790384.html The False Promise of the Prosperity Gospel: Why I Called Out Joel Osteen and Joyce Meyer], ''The Huffington Post'', 2013.08.21</ref> On October 14, 2007, ''[[60 Minutes]]'' ran a twelve-minute segment on Osteen, titled "Joel Osteen Answers his Critics", during which [[Reformed]] theologian [[Michael Horton (theologian)|Michael Horton]] told [[CBS News]] correspondent [[Byron Pitts]] that Osteen's message is [[Christian heresy|heresy]]. Horton stated that the problem with Osteen's message is that it makes religion about us instead of about God.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/10/11/60minutes/main3358652.shtml |date = October 14, 2007 |accessdate = May 13, 2011 |title = Joel Osteen Answers his Critics |publisher = CBS News ''[[60 Minutes]]'' }}</ref>
When asked if he is a prosperity teacher, Osteen responded that if prosperity means God wants people to be blessed and healthy and have good relationships, then he considers himself a prosperity teacher, but if it is about money, he does not. He has specifically stated that he never preaches about money because of the reputation of [[televangelist]]s.<ref name=Interview />
In an interview with [[The Christian Post]] on April 21, 2013, Osteen expressed his sentiments on being perceived as being part of the prosperity gospel. "I get grouped into the prosperity gospel and I never think it's fair, but it's just what it is. I think prosperity, and I've said it 1,000 times, it's being healthy, it's having great children, it's having peace of mind. Money is part of it; and yes, I believe God wants us to excel ... to be blessed so we can be a bigger blessing to others. I feel very rewarded. I wrote a book and sold millions of copies; and Victoria and I were able to help more people than we ever dreamed of. But when I hear the term prosperity gospel, I think people are sometimes saying, 'Well, he's just asking for money'."<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/interview-joel-osteen-on-life-tragedy-and-why-he-shuns-prosperity-gospel-label-94355/ |title = Interview: Joel Osteen on Life, Tragedy and Why He Shuns 'Prosperity Gospel' Label |work = Christian Post }}</ref>
== Controversies ==
=== Hurricane Harvey response ===
During the immediate aftermath of [[Hurricane Harvey]] in August 2017, Osteen received significant criticism in response to not making Lakewood Church, a 606,000-square-foot, 16,000-seat former basketball arena, available as an emergency shelter for those displaced by the storm.<ref name="WaPo_083017">{{cite news |last1 = Kuzydym |first1 = Stephanie |title = Joel Osteen calls claim he shut church doors on Harvey victims 'a false narrative' |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2017/08/29/we-were-never-closed-joel-osteens-houston-megachurch-disputes-claims-it-shut-its-doors/ |accessdate = September 8, 2017 |publisher = [[Washington Post]] |date = August 30, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="NYT_082917">{{cite news |last1 = Bromwich |first1 = Jonah Engel |title = Joel Osteen Says Lakewood Church Is Open to Harvey Victims After Criticism |url = https://www.nytimes.com/2017/08/29/us/joel-osteen-backlash-church.html?mcubz=0&_r=0 |accessdate = September 8, 2011 |publisher = [[New York Times]] |date = August 29, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="Newsweek_082817">{{cite news |last1 = Sinclair |first1 = Harriet |title = Is Joel Osteen's megachurch too flooded to help hurricane Harvey victims? |url = http://www.newsweek.com/televangelist-joel-osteen-flood-hurricane-harvey-656163 |accessdate = September 8, 2017 |publisher = [[Newsweek]] |date = August 8, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="LAT_092917">{{cite news |last1 = Associated Press |title = After criticism, televangelist Joel Osteen denies closing Houston megachurch to people seeking shelter |url = http://www.latimes.com/nation/nationnow/la-na-joel-osteen-houston-megachurch-harvey-20170829-htmlstory.html |accessdate = September 8, 2017 |publisher = [[Los Angeles Times]] |date = August 29, 2017 }}</ref><ref name=Tribune>{{cite web |url = http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/ct-joel-osteen-megachurch-harvey-victims-20170830-story.html |title = Joel Osteen pushes back against accusations he closed his megachurch to Harvey victims |author = Kuzydym, Stephanie; Phillips, Christine |work = The Chicago Tribune |date = August 30, 2017 |accessdate = August 30, 2017 }}</ref> On August 27, posts from the church and a Lakewood Church associate pastor's social media accounts stated that the church was "inaccessible due to severe flooding,"<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodChurch/posts/10155840984515864 |title = Lakewood Church |website = www.facebook.com |language = en |accessdate = September 19, 2017 }}<br />{{Cite news |url = http://www.holykoolaid.com/secular-vs-religious-charity/ |title = Why you should NEVER give to a religious charity |date = September 17, 2017 |work = Holy Koolaid |accessdate = September 19, 2017 |language = en-US }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.fox13news.com/news/277145632-story |title = Joel Osteen's megachurch blasted for lack of outreach during Houston flooding |work = Fox 13 News |date = August 29, 2017 |accessdate = August 30, 2017 }}<br />{{cite web |url = http://scng-dash.digitalfirstmedia.com/2017/08/29/joel-osteen-houston-megachurch-to-shelter-people-if-needed/ |title = Joel Osteen's Houston megachurch opens doors as shelter after pastor slammed by critics |date = August 29, 2017 |website = Redlands Daily Facts |accessdate = September 9, 2017 }}</ref> Osteen countered the claim that flood waters closed the church, saying "the church has been open from the beginning," and, "We've always been open … How this notion got started, that we're not a shelter and we're not taking people in is a false narrative."<ref name=Tribune /><ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2017/08/29/we-were-never-closed-joel-osteens-houston-megachurch-disputes-claims-it-shut-its-doors/ |title = Joel Osteen calls claim he shut church doors on Harvey victims 'a false narrative' |newspaper = Washington Post |accessdate = September 9, 2017 }}</ref> This contradicted his earlier statement that the church would open when other refugee centers were full.<ref name=Tribune /><ref>{{cite web |url = http://metro.co.uk/2017/08/29/joel-osteen-opens-his-megachurch-for-shelter-after-video-showing-it-empty-6888322/ |title = Pastor opens his megachurch for shelter after video showing it empty |first = Oliver |last = McAteer |date = August 29, 2017 |website = Metro |accessdate = September 9, 2017 }}<br />{{cite news |url = http://heavy.com/news/2017/08/joel-osteen-wikipedia-summary-trolled-vandalized-hurricane-harvey-lakewood-church-photo-screenshot/ |title = PHOTO: Joel Osteen's Wikipedia Trolled Over Church's Response to Hurricane Harvey |last = Prince |first = S.J. |date = August 29, 2017 |work = Heavy.com |accessdate = September 9, 2017 |language = en-US }}</ref> In a subsequent interview, Lakewood spokesperson Don Iloff stated that the building itself had been flooded during the weekend, with water getting close to spilling over the facility's floodgate. Taking in a crowd of storm evacuees over would've been unsafe, although Iloff maintained that the church's doors were never closed. He also stated that pictures supposedly showing Lakewood free of flooding were taken on Monday, after the flood waters had lowered.<ref>{{Cite news |url = http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/ct-joel-osteen-megachurch-harvey-victims-20170830-story.html |title = Joel Osteen pushes back against accusations he closed his megachurch to Harvey victims |last = Phillips |first = Stephanie Kuzydym, Kristine |work = chicagotribune.com |access-date = July 27, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.inquisitr.com/4469615/joel-osteen-responds-to-criticisms-over-closing-lakewood-church-amid-hurricane-harvey/ |title = Hurricane Harvey Flood: Joel Osteen Didn’t Turn People Away, Says There Was Safety Issue At Lakewood Church |date = August 31, 2017 |work = The Inquisitr |access-date = July 27, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref> On the evening of August 28, it was announced by Lakewood that it would open at noon the next day as an available shelter, opening to storm victims and emergency personnel on August 29.<ref name=Tribune />
On August 15, 2018, less than a year after Harvey struck, the City of Houston and Mayor [[Sylvester Turner]] proclaimed a day in honor of Lakewood and Osteen's assistance in rebuild efforts across the Houston area.<ref>{{Cite news |url = https://abc13.com/society/joel-osteen-honored-by-city-of-houston-for-post-harvey-help/3957138/ |title = Joel Osteen honored by city of Houston for post-Harvey help |date = August 14, 2018 |work = ABC13 Houston |access-date = August 15, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/2018/08/14/300096/lakewood-church-receives-mayors-proclamation-for-harvey-support-after-initial-criticism/|title=Lakewood Church Receives Mayor’s Proclamation for Harvey Support – After Initial Criticism {{!}} Houston Public Media|last=Martin|first=Florian|date=August 14, 2018|work=Houston Public Media|access-date=August 15, 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> It stated Lakewood and its pastors have provided ''"assistance to more than 1,150 Houston-area families whose homes were damaged or destroyed by floodwaters"'' and bought ''"1.1 million dollars in building materials, furniture, appliances, and paid labor, as well as through the contribution of more than 2,500 volunteers".''<ref>{{Cite news |url = http://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/pastor-osteen-recognized-for-his-work-during-hurricane-harvey-with-surprise-proclamation |title = Lakewood Church pastors recognized for work during Hurricane Harvey |last = FOX |work = KSAZ |access-date = August 15, 2018 |language = en-US }}</ref>
== Lawsuits ==
In 2011 Osteen and Lakewood Church were sued by the band [[The American Dollar (band)|The American Dollar]] for copyright infringement.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.christianpost.com/news/joel-osteen-church-sued-by-band-for-3m-54585/ |title = Joel Osteen, Church Sued by Band for $3M |publisher = Christian Post }}</ref> A judge in 2012 ruled in favor of Osteen, but gave The American Dollar leave to amend the case.<ref>{{cite new |url = http://www.houstonpress.com/news/joel-osteen-and-lakewood-mostly-win-copyright-suit-filed-by-indie-duo-6726800 |title = Joel Osteen & Lakewood Mostly Win Copyright Suit Filed by Indie Duo |publisher = Houston Press }}</ref>
In March 2017, a family filed a lawsuit against Lakewood Church and Osteen claiming their 18-month-old daughter suffered injuries following an altercation at the church in May 2014. Lakewood Church said it was unable to confirm the story, and the suit was settled by the church's insurance company.<ref>{{cite new |url = https://www.click2houston.com/news/lakewood-church-facing-lawsuit-after-family-says-young-child-hurt-during-service |title = Lakewood Church, Joel Osteen facing lawsuit after family says young child hurt during service |publisher = click2houston.com }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = https://hellochristian.com/6976-joel-osteen-sued-after-church-staff-body-slams-young-child-during-service |title = Joel Osteen Sued After Church Staff 'Body-Slams' Young Child During Service |publisher = Hello Christian }}</ref>
== Bibliography ==
* ''[[Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential]]'' (2004)
* ''Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day'' (2007)<ref>{{cite web |url = https://bookpage.com/reviews/5395-joel-osteen-become-better-you#.V1cbPpMrJE4 |title = Joel Osteen – Become A Better You – Book Review |publisher = |accessdate = April 16, 2017 }}</ref>
* ''Your Best Life Begins Each Morning: Devotions to Start Every Day of the Year'' (2008)
* ''Good, Better, Blessed: Living with Purpose, Power and Passion'' (2008)
* ''Hope for Today Bible'' (2009)
* ''It's Your Time : Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God's Favor'' (2009)<ref>{{cite web |url = https://books.google.com/books/about/It_s_Your_Time.html?id=qRxZPgAACAAJ |title = It's Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Anticipate God's Favor |first = Joel |last = Osteen |date = October 1, 2009 |publisher = Simon & Schuster, Limited |accessdate = April 16, 2017 |via = Google Books }}</ref>
* ''Living in Favor, Abundance and Joy'' (2010)
* ''Every Day a Friday: How to Be Happier 7 Days a Week'' (2011)<ref>{{cite web |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=Jk_o7waUbJcC&dq=every%20day%20a%20friday%20joel%20osteen&source=gbs_navlinks_s |title = Every Day a Friday: How to Be Happier 7 Days a Week |first = Joel |last = Osteen |date = September 13, 2011 |publisher = FaithWords |accessdate = April 16, 2017 |via = Google Books }}</ref>
* ''I Declare: 31 Promises to Speak Over Your Life'' (2012)
* ''Break Out!: 5 Keys to Go Beyond Your Barriers and Live an Extraordinary Life'' (2013)
* ''You Can, You Will: 8 Undeniable Qualities of a Winner'' (2014)
* ''The Power of I Am: Two Words That Will Change Your Life Today'' (2015)
* ''Think Better, Live Better: A Victorious Life Begins in Your Mind '' (2016)
* ''Blessed in the Darkness: How All Things Are Working for Your Good '' (2017)
== See also ==
* [[Christianity in Houston]]
* [[Charismatic movement]]
* [[Gospel of success]]
* [[Word of Faith]]
== References ==
{{reflist|30em}}
== External links ==
* {{Official website}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Osteen, Joel}}
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