Robert M. Bowman Jr.
Baker, 2001
Rob Bowman began researching the Word-Faith (or Word of Faith) movement during the 1980s while working at the Christian Research Institute under Walter Martin. During that period, he published several articles on the movement in the Christian Research Journal. Years later, Rob wrote The Word-Faith Controversy, which set forth a distinctive perspective. In contrast to other apologists who argued that the Word-Faith doctrine derived directly from the metaphysical or mind-science cults, Bowman argued that E. W. Kenyon, the “grandfather” of the Word of Faith movement, was part of the evangelical “faith-cure” movement that included such figures as A. J. Gordon and A. B. Simpson. Nevertheless, according to The Word-Faith Controversy, the movement’s theology is at best unsound and at worst heretical, especially in the views of God and Christ taught by such televangelists as Kenneth Copeland. Pentecostal, charismatic, and non-charismatic reviewers noted the balanced approach of the book:
“A scrupulously fair assessment.”
Craig M. Kibler, Presbyterian Layman (Dec. 2001)
“I commend Bowman for this thoughtful and careful historical/biblical critique of the Word of Faith movement. It fulfills his desire to spark further dialogue between the greater evangelical and Word of Faith communities.”
Derek Vreeland, Pneuma 26 (Spring 2004)
“The most significant critique of the Word-Faith movement published to-date. As in his other books, Robert Bowman demonstrates his ability to present all sides of a complex issue with great clarity—as well as with gentleness and respect…. Because of Bowman’s gentle, reasoned, and well-documented approach, I feel as comfortable in sharing this book with friends in the Word-Faith movement as I do in recommending it to the movement’s critics.”
Anton Hein, Apologetics Index
“You need not worry about handing this resource to friends who may be sympathetic to the movement. The book contains no sarcasm or satire which might cause them to stumble…. Bowman has produced the most balanced and cogent treatment of the subject to date.”
Rich Poll, Apologia Report
The Word-Faith Controversy is out of print, and some online booksellers are trying to sell used copies for as much as $250! Work is under way on an expanded, revised second edition. Further updates will be added to this page as they become available.