The Prayer of Jabez: Gone and hopefully forgotten.

Since its debut in 2001 The Prayer of Jabez, by Bruce Wilkinson, has been read by millions and influenced millions within Evangelical Christianity (not to mention outside of Evangelical Christianity). The premise of the book came from 1 Chronicles 4:10

Wilkinson's claim regarding this prayer and its application is found in the books opening:

In an effective critique by Berit Kjos at Crossroads, Kjos examines the glaring flaws and extreme theological deficits of Wilkinson. As well the follow up book in 2005 The Dream Giver by Wilkinson is strongly critiqued by Kjos discovering the same flaws and pandering to misuses of Scripture to support his thesis that God has "one big dream" for believers to pursue. While the hope is that so-called dream is following Christ, Wilkinson reveals it is not, but a repeat of broadening one's borders and gaining greater goods in this world found in the Jabez book.

Today we stand observing "The Fad of Jabez" (no offense to the real Jabez here but a parody of the book title) now gone, on shelves collecting whatever micro-organisms haunt such retired publications.

The truth is painful for many. A game of voodoo, hocus pocus with God's Word was played and disillusionment no doubt set it at some point as border after border failed to be enlarged for many believers. Much the surprise of many Wilkinson's was enlarged to the tune of 22 million copies sold.

But the legacy doesn't end there. Instead we learn about (2005-06)"Wilkinson's Dream For Africa is Shattered". A strange venture and claim of a dream from God for Wilkinson regarding Africa, specifically Swaziland. The link details the multiple violations by Wilkinson of cultural values, social and governmental tenets in his pursuit to fulfill this alleged vision.

Apparently the prayer of Jabez only works when you are selling books and not trying to take over Swaziland.

Unfortunately this is not an isolated incident. Included in this long list of fads are books too numerous to consider. Most recently the "Purpose Driven" fad, as I believe, will eventually join the heap of discarded dreams of bad theology only to be replaced by more erring accounts of God's plan for His people.