Acres of Diamonds
November 2, 2024
**An excerpt from a paper for History of Christianity in America.**
Russell H. Conwell (1843–1925) wrote a sermon titled Acres of Diamonds which promoted the notion that it is “your Christian and godly duty” to be rich. I was intrigued by how the language foreshadowed that of the prosperity gospel. I read a bit more of the speech online. Some of the content promoted the idea of being open to opportunity all around you, and to always be expecting good things to come your way. This language is similar to the admonishments we hear to stay open to God’s voice, even in the most mundane circumstances. And then there is the parable of the talents (Matt 25:14–30). On its face, the story would indicate that God does indeed want us to amass wealth. Of course there’s more nuance to that story, it’s not about money per se.
All these messages have the ring of truth, so they can be used as a foundation for a message that may offer some benefit, but with a broader intent to deceive and manipulate. When familiar Christian themes are woven into a message meant to control people in a way that brings money and power to the deliverer, there is no limit to the success of the grift.
I found this to be the most dangerous aspect of Conwell’s message:
“I sympathize with the poor, but the number of poor who are to be…
