Jonathan Shuttlesworth on Growth, Faith, and Generosity

Jonathan Shuttlesworth challenges the traditional Pentecostal belief that smaller churches are inherently stronger in spirit. He asserts that spiritual strength must have visible external manifestations, suggesting that if a church or individual is truly strong in spirit, it will be evident in their outward circumstances and growth, rather than being confined to an internal, unobservable state.

Shuttlesworth dismisses the notion that God directly controls all earthly events, including incidents like murders or geopolitical situations. Instead, he posits that the earth is largely controlled by people, and the direction of that control depends on whom those individuals serve. This perspective highlights the significance of human choices and allegiances in shaping global outcomes.

Referencing 2 Chronicles 16:9, Shuttlesworth explains that God actively searches the entire earth to find individuals whose hearts are fully committed to Him. He claims that God's purpose in this search is to strengthen those who are aligned with His will, demonstrating His power on their behalf. This underscores a belief in a proactive God who intervenes in the lives of the faithful.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth reported significant financial growth within his ministry, noting that July was a record month with nearly $2 million in contributions. He also stated that August had already surpassed its 20-year record five days before the month's end. Shuttlesworth argues that God-ordained assignments bring blessings and financial increase, rather than depleting an individual or organization.

Shuttlesworth cautions against preachers who become overly focused on obtaining academic titles like PhDs to enhance their perceived intelligence or status. He recounts instances where individuals, despite being effective speakers, pursued doctorates, acquired glasses to appear smarter, and shifted their ministry focus, only to see their impact diminish. This emphasis suggests that authenticity in one's divinely appointed role is more crucial than chasing external symbols of status, which can ultimately be detrimental to their calling.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth criticizes teachings that he believes turn Christians into individuals who are averse to money and success. He rejects the idea that faith is solely about what God has already accomplished, arguing instead that believers must also take practical responsibility for their lives and obligations. Shuttlesworth explicitly challenges the notion that mundane responsibilities, such as paying a mortgage, are irrelevant to a person's spiritual journey, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to faith and practical living.

At 45 years old, Jonathan Shuttlesworth is actively focusing on creating 'lasting fruit' in his ministry, observing a common pattern where many American churches experience rapid growth to 2,000 or 3,000 members only to decline significantly after the founding pastor departs. He believes that true success should not depend solely on the charisma of a single lead pastor. To this end, he has prioritized delegating responsibilities to other capable pastors, a strategy that he claims immediately resulted in an increase of 150 members.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth highlights Jesus' teachings on leadership, emphasizing that greatness is achieved through service. He stresses that anyone aspiring to be great or chief among believers must first adopt the role of a minister or servant to others. Shuttlesworth strongly condemns religious leaders who exploit their followers or subordinates, advocating for a leadership model rooted in humility and genuine care. This principle underscores a core tenet of his ministry philosophy, where influence is gained through selfless action rather than dominance, aligning with biblical mandates for leadership.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth argues that true promotion does not come from human sources, as human favor is inherently fickle and unstable. He explains that any advancement granted by people is conditional and dependent on maintaining their favor. In contrast, Shuttlesworth posits that God is steadfast and unchanging, not subject to human moods or whims. Therefore, he concludes, genuine and lasting promotion can only come from God alone, offering a stable and reliable path to advancement.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth contends that prioritizing the Kingdom of God and His righteousness is the fundamental principle for acquiring material wealth and desired possessions such as cars, houses, and jets. He illustrates this point by recounting his personal journey, transitioning from struggling to meet rent payments to successfully managing a multi-million dollar real estate portfolio. Shuttlesworth underscores that true greatness and prosperity originate from divine provision rather than through worldly pursuits alone.

Shuttlesworth references 2 Chronicles 26:5, highlighting the connection between fearing God and experiencing sustained prosperity, citing King Uzziah's success while he sought God. He attributes his own moral conduct, including avoiding infidelity, directly to his 'fear of God' rather than personal merit or self-discipline. This perspective emphasizes that a reverence for God acts as a powerful deterrent against moral failings and a catalyst for continued blessing, positioning it as a core principle for both personal integrity and divine favor.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth expresses indifference towards individuals who engage in debates about tithing, viewing their refusal to contribute as indicative of a lack of commitment to God's kingdom. He recounts a conversation where he simply told someone who stated they don't tithe, 'Don't.' Shuttlesworth cites Paul Crouch as an example, illustrating a shift in perspective from viewing financial contributions as a 'loan' to understanding them as an absolute sacrifice. This stance underlines his belief that tithing is a non-negotiable aspect of devoted faith.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth recounted an interaction with a Burger King employee in Ohio. Following a pleasant experience, he initially gave her $100. On his way out, he felt compelled to give her another $100, which caused her to double over in surprise. This act of spontaneous generosity reflects his personal philosophy of giving money freely, explaining that he trusts money will continuously return to him as he gives it away, believing he can never run out.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth clarified that his church does not engage in 'pastor appreciation' offerings, stating there has never been and never will be an offering collected for his personal benefit. He explicitly emphasizes that his ministry is not intended as a means for personal enrichment. This declaration aims to underscore the financial integrity of his organization and distinguish it from ministries that might be perceived as self-serving.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth discussed his approach to treating church staff and volunteers, affirming that he treats them with utmost respect, comparing it to treating them 'like gold,' because they are 'God's people.' He shared that he has never yelled at or rebuked any staff member, either in person, over the phone, or via text. Shuttlesworth also instructs his staff to interact with others in a manner consistent with how they would speak to him, emphasizing a culture of mutual respect and warning against the abuse of authority. This principle seeks to foster a positive and respectful working environment within his ministry.

Jonathan Shuttlesworth announced plans for a new crusade scheduled to take place in Dallas in November, stating that he felt a divine prompting to organize the event. He mentioned that a contract is already prepared to potentially book the stadium previously used by the Texas Rangers baseball team. Shuttlesworth emphasized the importance of acting swiftly when God provides clear direction and expressed his ambition for the crusade to make a significant Christian statement in Dallas, aiming for widespread spiritual impact.