TV pastors, also known as televangelists, play a significant role in today’s society by reaching millions of viewers through television broadcasts. TV pastors offer a sense of comfort and hope to those who might not have access to traditional religious institutions or who prefer the convenience of watching from the comfort of their own homes.
It is important to note, however, that some televangelists use their influence to promote misleading, and at times even harmful, teachings. Some of the most popular TV pastors are extremely wealthy, and are frequently associated with the prosperity gospel.
List of the Top 5 TV Pastors
There are several well-known individuals who have significant influence on viewers across the world. These pastors have their own television shows or frequently appear on popular TV programs, spreading their messages to millions of people.
1. Joel Osteen: Joel Osteen is the senior pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston and is known for his positive sermons. Osteen’s messages reach millions of viewers worldwide via Joel Osteen Ministries.
“You were not created to just get by with an average, unrewarding, or unfulfilling life. God created you to leave your mark on this generation,” said Osteen.
Joel Osteen delivers sermons that inspire individuals to live their best lives and references Bible verses such as Jeremiah 29:11, which says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Osteen is controversial among evangelical Christians, however, some of whom accuse him of promoting a self-help version of the gospel and for being more of a motivational speaker than a pastor. In a 2016 interview, Osteen explained that he avoids preaching about hell and repentance because people “already feel guilty enough.”
The pastor also receives criticism for being wealthy.
2. T.D. Jakes: T.D. Jakes is the founder The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch in Dallas, Texas. Jakes recently handed over leadership of his church to his daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts and son-in-law Touré Roberts. Jakes TV show, “The Potter’s Touch,” features his teachings on life and faith. T.D. Jakes reaches a reported 30 million people a day.
With a background in theology and psychology, T.D. Jakes focuses on empowering individuals to overcome challenges and live a purposeful life. Jakes’ messages often touch on topics such as faith, relationships, and personal growth.
Jakes has drawn criticism in the past for promoting modalism and for not clearly teaching that God is trinitarian. Jakes has been accused at times of promoting prosperity gospel teachings, such as when he tweeted in 2017, “If you obey GOD you will never be broke another day in your life.”
In December, Jakes filed a motion for a subpoena against Google, YouTube’s parent company on the grounds that YouTube is allowing AI-generated misinformation on YouTube falsely linking him to disgraced hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. Jakes, who suffered a heart attack in November, in February filed a defamation lawsuit against two ministers who have accused him of sexual misconduct.
3. Joyce Meyer: Joyce Meyer is an author and speaker who has gained a large following through her TV show, “Enjoying Everyday Life,” which broadcasts worldwide. Her practical approach to faith and personal growth has resonated with many viewers.
Criticisms of Meyer tend to center on her wealth, the fact that she is a female preacher, and past prosperity gospel teachings. In 2007, she was one of several televangelists (including Benny Hinn, Paula White, Creflo Dollar, and Kenneth Copeland) who had their finances investigated by the U.S. Senate. Meyer’s ministry complied with the investigation (which found no evidence of wrongdoing among any of the ministries) and took steps toward greater transparency.
In 2019, Meyer admitted her views on prosperity and faith had gotten “out of balance.”
“There is nowhere in the Bible where we’re promised we will never have any trouble,” she said. “I don’t care how much faith you have, you’re never going to avoid having trouble in your life.”
