Preaching Success: Joel Osteen Teaches Positivity

Oct. 15, 2007 — -- Thousands gather weekly to the religious arena known as Lakewood Church in Houston, but no one sits down. Instead, the worshippers clap, jump and sing with enthusiasm and love for God and their pastor, Joel Osteen.

The popular pastor's message of prosperity and forgiveness attracts massive crowds. Osteen, who has gained international prominence as a pastor and best-selling author, has turned the church into the country's largest with more than 40,000 members. His followers flock to hear sermons laced with themes of faith and positivity.

"Every morning we need to let go of the mistakes, disappointments and the people that hurt us," Osteen said on "Good Morning America" Monday.

Each week millions see Osteen's sermons, which are broadcast in nearly 100 nations. And in Houston after each session he greets the hundreds of guests waiting to meet him. He hugs his parishioners, signs books and Bibles and even shares stories with them.

"It helps me to stay encouraged," he said. "I love to hear the stories. You know, when you get up some days and you don't feel like doing it or you hear some criticism, I think, 'Well, you know what? We're making a difference.' And I just remember some of the stories that those people have told me, and it's very rewarding. It's very humbling."

In addition to preaching, Osteen also just has published a book fixed on seven principles on how to become a better person. "Become a Better You" is his second book.

"I hope to reach everybody," Osteen said. He said he writes his books for people who are not necessarily used to going to church.

Using positive preaching in his book, Osteen hopes to teach people how negative outlooks beget negative outcomes.

"One of the main keys is to be grateful for what you have," Osteen said. "It is easy to get discouraged," and that will attract more negativity, he said.

But not everyone agrees with Osteen's sermon subjects or style. Critics have called it "Christian light" and said it is too simple.

"To me, Jesus taught people to live the Christian life, and that's what I'm trying to do. It doesn't seem light to me when I do it," he said. "I just feel like that's when I'm at my best, when I'm encouraging people and letting them know that God's on their side."