The Editor, Sir:

This is in response to the Peter Espeut column, 'Going for broke'. Since Mr Espeut is a Roman Catholic deacon and my friend, he will forgive me for not understanding his interpretation of the scriptures.

However, Peter will be happy to know that I agree with him that the 'prosperity doctrine' is not biblical ... and is, in fact, demonic!

Wealth

It teaches people that God wants everyone to be wealthy and that by giving money to a church (called 'planting a seed') they can get favours from God (called 'getting my breakthrough'). It is not dissimilar to the selling of spiritual favours that was used to build many Catholic edifices in an era long past.

Can you imagine how many people have been disappointed in their efforts to pay God for favours? They are like the people sacrificing their children to Moleck in the Old Testament.

Indeed, I even heard of one lady throwing her tithes in order that her daughter should lose her baby!

People need to understand that they must become 'children of God', who live under His loving care. Then, they would appreciate the gifts he daily sends their way ... including the power to create wealth.

I am, etc,

KENNEDY REID

kennedyreid@yahoo.com