Joel Osteen: Your Best Life Now–The Board Game?

In light of thoughts of Thanksgiving, you just have to read THIS post.  The game surprised me.  The author is hysterical in describing a game based on Joel Osteen’s book.  My husband and I got the biggest kick out of it.  FULL PICS .  Commentors couldn’t figure out if it was a hoax or a real game!  Some of the comments there discouraged me…that we can nitpic people with a different approach to death.  I’ve heard people say that they “just don’t like” Joel Osteen, or Beth Moore…that is just such a reality check.  You know what, if people “just don’t like” them…then not everybody is going to like ME!  Wow.  That’s just a lot of pressure off me, you know!    I mean, what’s not to like?  They are just “likeable” people!  Stop being so sour faced, church!  If the gospel is advancing with integrity, cheer!

Anyway…I could actually see the game’s usefulness in a small group, and I think it has a point to make in an innovative way.  But, when you think about it in terms of a traditional party game, it’s just a hysterical thought.  

“Look into the mirror and describe _______ good things about yourself.” 

I found the link at Mike’s blog (With Confidence) where there is good conversation about the game and in general, Joel Osteen’s much debated “positive approach” to evangelism (see the comments and join in).  I’ll be checking in on you there today (or leave comments at MAG if you are short on time).  Good for us all to evaluate ourselves on. 

So:  What’s your “smile factor” in presenting your faith to the world?  Um…in comparison, I need some serious work. 

And, in general, do you think God is honored by the “positive approach” to evangelism?  Even if not:  What could we learn from it?  How do we keep it “balanced” (where does repentance fall in it?)  Do you watch Joel Osteen, and what impressions do you take away? 

~Maggie