The Influence of Prosperity Gospel on the Financial Behavior of Church Members in Rivers State

This study investigates the influence of prosperity gospel preaching on the financial behavior and economic decision-making of church members in Rivers State, South South Nigeria. The prosperity gospel, which links material wealth to faith and giving, has become a dominant theological current in Nigerian Pentecostalism, yet its practical economic consequences remain under-researched at the community level. Using a descriptive survey design, data are collected from 280 respondents across eight Pentecostal congregations in Port Harcourt, Obio-Akpor, and Eleme Local Government Areas. Questionnaires are supplemented by focused interviews with six senior pastors and four financial counselors affiliated with church organisations. The study finds that a significant proportion of respondents have altered their savings patterns, made unplanned financial commitments, or withdrawn from investment plans based on prosperity-themed sermons. Positive outcomes include increased charitable giving and a heightened sense of financial ambition. However, negative outcomes include financial over-extension, susceptibility to church-based financial schemes, and reduced personal savings. The research recommends that churches introduce biblically grounded financial literacy programmes that balance spiritual motivation with sound economic principles. Denominational oversight bodies are also encouraged to develop ethical guidelines for fundraising within congregations. These findings are relevant for economists, theologians, and social welfare agencies concerned with the financial vulnerability of religious communities in Nigeria. Keywords: prosperity gospel, financial behavior, Pentecostalism, Rivers State, church giving