Biography of Kenneth E. Hagin

Kenneth E. Hagin, a prominent figure in the Christian faith, is widely regarded as the “father of the Word of Faith movement.” Born in 1917, Hagin’s life was marked by illness, a dramatic conversion experience, and a subsequent ministry that spanned decades. While his teachings have had a profound impact on millions, there are also significant critiques and controversies surrounding his ministry and the Word of Faith movement. This article will explore Hagin’s life, his contributions to the Word of Faith movement, and the controversies associated with his teachings.

Early Life and Conversion

Kenneth Hagin was born in McKinney, Texas, in 1917. From a young age, he suffered from a deformed heart and a blood disease, which doctors believed was incurable. At the age of 15, Hagin became paralyzed and bedridden. During this time of physical suffering, he experienced a dramatic conversion to Christianity. Hagin described a vision of heaven and hell, followed by a healing experience that restored his health.

The Word of Faith Movement

Hagin’s teachings and ministry were instrumental in the development and growth of the Word of Faith movement. This movement emphasizes the power of positive confession, the prosperity gospel, and the manifestation of faith through the spoken word. Hagin’s books, sermons, and conferences disseminated these principles to a global audience, influencing millions of believers.

Hagin’s Ministry and Legacy

Hagin founded Rhema Bible Training College, a prominent institution that has trained thousands of ministers worldwide. His ministry also included extensive media outreach, with radio broadcasts, television programs, and numerous publications. Hagin’s teachings on faith, healing, and prosperity have had a lasting impact on contemporary Christianity.

Controversies and Criticisms

Despite his widespread influence, Hagin’s ministry and the Word of Faith movement have faced significant criticism. Some critics have questioned the veracity of Hagin’s claims of supernatural healing and prosperity. Others have raised concerns about the emphasis on material wealth and the potential for exploitation within the Word of Faith movement. Additionally, Hagin’s teachings on certain theological issues, such as the nature of sin and salvation, have been subject to debate.

• Bible Faith Study Course (1966)
• Right and Wrong Thinking for Christians (1966)
• What Faith Is (1966)
• The Real Faith (1970)
• I Believe in Visions (1972)
• The Human Spirit (1974)
• Why Tongues (1975)
• Demons and How to Deal with Them (1976)
• The Key to Scriptural Healing (1977)
• Ministering to the Oppressed (1977)
• The Interceding Christian (1978)
• Faith Food for Spring (1978)
• How You Can Be Led by the Spirit of God (1978)
• How to Write Your Own Ticket with God (1979)
• What to Do When Faith Seems Weak & Victory Lost (1979)
• Seven Things You Should Know About Divine Healing (1979)
• You Can Have What You Say (1979)
• El Shaddai (1980)
• Having Faith in Your Faith (1980)
• Why Do People Fall Under the Power? (1981)
• Casting Your Cares Upon the Lord (1981)
• The Name of Jesus (1981)
• Seven Steps for Judging Prophecy (1982)
• I Went to Hell (1982)
• Must Christians Suffer? (1982)
• Three Big Words (1983)
• Obedience in Finances (1983)
• The Believer’s Authority (1985)
• How God Taught Me About Prosperity (1985)
• The Glory of God (1987)
• Understanding How to Fight the Good Fight of Faith (1987)
• Prayer Secrets (1988)
• Knowing What Belongs to Us (1989)
• Exceedingly Growing Faith (1990)
• The Holy Spirit And His Gifts (1991)
• Classic Sermons: The Word of Faith 25th Anniversary 1968–1992 Commemorative Edition (1992)
• Following God’s Plan for Your Life (1993)
• The Triumphant Church (1993)
• Love: The Way to Victory (1994)
• God’s Medicine (1997)
• The Midas Touch (1999)
• Tongues: Beyond the Upper Room (2007)