Biography of Oral Roberts

Oral Roberts, a prominent figure in American religious history, was a charismatic televangelist and faith healer whose ministry spanned several decades. Born in Oklahoma in 1918, Roberts’ life was marked by both spiritual fervor and personal tragedy.

Early Life and Ministry

Raised in a humble family, Roberts experienced a profound religious conversion in his youth. After attending college, he embarked on a career as a traveling evangelist, gaining recognition for his powerful preaching and healing ministry. He founded the Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association and the Oral Roberts University, both of which became significant institutions within the Pentecostal movement.

A Pioneer of Televangelism

Roberts pioneered televangelism, using the medium to reach a vast audience. His television programs featured dynamic sermons, emotional appeals, and dramatic testimonies of healing and divine intervention. He cultivated a loyal following through these broadcasts and raised substantial funds for his ministry.

The Prosperity Gospel and Faith Healing

A central tenet of Roberts’ theology was the prosperity gospel, which emphasizes the belief that God desires Christians to be financially prosperous. He often preached about the power of positive confession and seed faith, encouraging his followers to sow financial seeds in order to reap spiritual and material blessings. Roberts was also a fervent advocate of divine healing, claiming that God could heal any illness or disease through faith and prayer.

Controversies and Scandals

Despite his popularity and influence, Roberts’ ministry was not without controversy. His fundraising tactics, particularly his dramatic appeals for donations, drew criticism from both religious and secular circles. Additionally, the financial management of his organizations, including Oral Roberts University, came under scrutiny.

One of the most significant controversies involved the construction of the City of Faith Medical and Research Center. Roberts claimed to have received a divine revelation to build this ambitious project, which was intended to combine faith and medicine. However, the project faced financial difficulties and ultimately failed.

Furthermore, the personal lives of Roberts and his family members were subject to public scrutiny. His son, Richard Roberts, faced accusations of financial mismanagement and ethical misconduct while serving as president of Oral Roberts University. These scandals tarnished the family’s reputation and led to a decline in public support for the ministry.

Legacy

Despite the controversies, Oral Roberts remains a significant figure in American religious history. His impact on Pentecostalism and charismatic Christianity is undeniable. He pioneered the use of television as a tool for evangelism and popularized the prosperity gospel. However, his legacy is complex and multifaceted, reflecting both the potential and the pitfalls of religious celebrity.