This weekend, we watched “American Gospel: Christ Alone” and found it very poignant and relevant. The “Word of Faith” movement (Prosperity Gospel), which originates in the US, is very prevalent and destructive in Congo, as many people believe that being a “good” Christian means that you won’t suffer (you will instead have health and wealth). Some misplaced beliefs that exist among American Christians are easier to recognize in a different culture, and we’ve grown in our faith through the challenges of living in Congo and the faithful teaching and ministry of LePhare church.
This film also hit home as it follows and is dedicated to a non-white theologian who died from cancer at a young age, leaving behind his wife and daughter. I don’t think I’m going to die from tongue cancer, but I am so grateful that, in Christ, I have firm assurance that no matter what happens with my situation, God is in control, He is good, and I have hope because I’ve been reconciled to Him through Christ’s sacrifice. I’m so grateful that I can see so clearly how it’s a lie to think: “It’s unfair for God to allow me to have cancer because I’m a good person, I’m even a missionary in Congo.”
I would highly recommend everyone to watch "American Gospel: Christ Alone"! The full-length version is on Netflix. (For the record, I didn’t totally agree with a few minor points, but the major points are 100% great.)
