Social Media Blasts Joel Osteen After 'Today' Show Interview

Televangelist Joel Osteen appeared Monday on NBC's "Today" to promote his new book. The interview with hosts Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie didn't go over well on social media, with many criticizing his advice and lifestyle.

The 58-year-old pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston has drawn scrutiny for using his church’s prosperity earnings for things like sports cars, a giant mansion and even a yacht. While Osteen has many fans and “followers" — he has 10 million followers on Twitter — there are many who have questioned his practices and his appearance on the popular morning show did little to convert the non-believers.

His new book, “Peaceful on Purpose,” is explained as a book that outlines how to remain calm during the day, even when things don’t go as planned. He also explained, “Don’t focus on what you have or don’t have,” which rubbed many viewers the wrong way.

Osteen, whose televised sermons reach over 100 countries, has an estimated net worth of $100 million. He has claimed many times that he receives no salary from his megachurch. He gets royalties from his 15 books he’s written and receives funds from his U.S. tours.

Many have also touched on the fact that he doesn’t have to pay income taxes since he doesn’t take a salary directly from Lakewood. Osteen receives allowances and stipends for traveling and lodging expenses, as well as taking out credit cards in the church’s name, which aren’t taxable, Distractify noted.

Criticism of Osteen surged in 2017 due to the church's policies during the deadly Hurricane Harvey. He closed the church's doors due to "flooding," despite evidence of any flooding. After mounting public pressure, Osteen opened the church a few days later to flood victims.

Osteen, who was born and raised in Houston, took over the church in 1991 after his father died.