Ever heard of rags-to-riches stories so inspiring they make you want to shout “Hallelujah!”? That’s exactly the kind of journey Joel Osteen, America’s megastar pastor, has taken. With his booming voice and unshakable faith, he’s lifted millions of spirits AND built a fortune that leaves many wondering: just how much is Joel Osteen worth?
Get ready to dive deep into the life of this controversial yet captivating figure. We’ll unravel the man behind the microphone, from his humble Texas roots to becoming a household name. We’ll track his meteoric rise, tracing the steps that led him to a net worth that’ll make your eyes water (trust us, it’s a doozy!). Along the way, we’ll tackle the whispers and controversies that have followed him like shadows, separating facts from faith and understanding the source of his enduring influence.
This ain’t just another preacher’s tale. This is a journey into the heart of American ambition, spirituality, and yes, even a hefty dose of “oooh la la” – because let’s face it, Joel Osteen’s wealth has raised more than a few eyebrows. So, buckle up, grab your holy water (or a good cup of coffee, depending on your vibe), and let’s unpack the fascinating, faith-filled, and frankly, fascinatingly wealthy narrative of Joel Osteen’s life!
Who is Joel Osteen?
Meet Joel Scott Osteen, a Texan with a story worth sharing! Hailing from Houston, Texas, Joel isn’t your run-of-the-mill person. He wears many hats – he’s an author, a businessman, a televangelist (that’s a fancy word for someone who spreads the word of faith on TV), and a lay preacher (which means he’s not your typical clergyman).
You might have come across his televised services or spotted his name on a best-selling book or two. He’s known for his inspiring talks and uplifting messages. But here’s the twist – Joel Osteen is closely associated with something called “prosperity theology.” It’s a belief that’s all about achieving success and wealth through faith. Now, this idea has its fair share of fans, but it’s also got its critics.
Intrigued? Well, you should be! So, let’s dive deeper into the world of Joel Osteen, his journey, and the controversies that have come his way. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the life of this charismatic Texan!
| Who is Joel Osteen in a Nutshell | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joel Scott Osteen |
| Celebrated Name | Joel Osteen |
| Date of Birth | Mar 5, 1963 |
| Age | 60 years old |
| Place of Birth | Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.82 m) |
| Profession | Writer, Televangelist, Pastor, Author, Evangelist, Preacher |
| Nationality | United States of America |
Joel Osteen’s Net Worth and Salary
Picture this: a staggering $100 million in the bank! That’s the jaw-dropping net worth of none other than Joel Osteen, and we’re talking about the year 2023. But hold on, who is this guy raking in the big bucks?
Joel isn’t your typical 9-to-5 worker. He’s a televangelist – think of him as a preacher with a TV audience. But that’s not all. He’s also a literary sensation, with best-selling books that fly off the shelves. And here’s the kicker: his Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, is a giant in the world of worship, ranking as one of the largest churches in the entire United States.
Now, where does all that cash come from, you ask? Well, it’s a smorgasbord of sources. Book royalties? Check. Speaking gigs that have crowds hanging on his every word? Check. Generous donations to his church? Double-check. Oh, and he’s not just a one-trick pony – Joel’s got a finger in multiple pies. He’s the mastermind behind a record label and even runs a media company.
But as with anyone who’s got it all, Joel’s wealth hasn’t gone unnoticed. Some folks out there say he’s not exactly the ideal role model for Christians, given his financial empire. Yet, his loyal supporters argue that he’s a savvy businessman who’s all about using his riches to make the world a better place. So, is he a moneymaking machine or a philanthropic powerhouse? Let’s dig deeper and find out!
| Net Worth of Joel Osteen in a Nutshell | |
|---|---|
| Name | Joel Osteen |
| Net Worth | Approximately $100 million |
| Monthly Income And Salary | $ 0.7 Million + |
| Salary | $10 Million + |
| Profession | Writer, Televangelist, Pastor, Author, Evangelist, Preacher |
| Primary Source of Income | Book sales, speaking engagements, church donations |
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Earning Sources of Joel Osteen
Here we have listed some of the major sources of the Net Worth of Joe Osteen:
Book royalties: Osteen is a renowned author who has achieved remarkable success with his best-selling books, such as “Your Best Life Now” and “Become a Better You.” These literary works have garnered a massive global readership and generated substantial revenue through millions of copies sold, securing Osteen substantial royalties in the process.
Speaking engagements: Osteen is widely recognized as a sought-after speaker, captivating audiences across the globe with his insightful talks. His prominence allows him to command a substantial fee for his speaking engagements, which significantly adds to his overall net worth.
Donations to his church: Lakewood Church stands as one of the largest churches in the United States, attracting a vast congregation and receiving generous donations of millions annually. As a part of the financial structure, a portion of these contributions contributes to Osteen’s salary.
It is important to note that these are just estimates of Joel Osteen’s net worth. His actual net worth may be higher or lower. However, he has drawn criticism due to his personal wealth and his general support of the “prosperity gospel” which focuses on individual enrichment and improvement. Additionally, his messages have been viewed as controversial by some. The Lakewood Church, where he preaches, is housed in a 600,000-square-foot former sports stadium with a seating capacity of 17,000 people.
Family Background and Early Life
Joel’s father was a former Southern Baptist pastor who founded Lakewood Church, which Joel currently leads, in the back of an old feed store. As a child, Joel was involved in the church and assisted his father with various duties.
| Name | Joel Scott Osteen |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | Mar 5, 1963 |
| Age | 60 years old |
| Place of Birth | Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.82 m) |
| Profession | Writer, Televangelist, Pastor, Author, Evangelist, Preacher |
| Nationality | United States of America |
| Religion | Non-denominational Christianity, Charismatic Christianity, Word of Faith |
| Spouse | Victoria Iloff (m. 1987) |
| Children | 2 |
| Father Name | John Osteen |
| Mother Name | Dolores Pilgrim Osteen |
| School | Humble High School |
| Alma mater | Oral Roberts University |
| Relatives | Paul Osteen (brother) |
| Church | Lakewood Church |
Education and Career
Joel graduated from Humble High School in the city of Humble, Texas, in 1981. He then attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he studied radio and television communications. However, he did not complete his degree.
After leaving college in 1982, Joel returned to Houston and founded Lakewood’s television program. He produced his father’s televised sermons for 17 years until January 1999, when his father passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack.
Taking Over as Senior Pastor
After his father’s death, Joel took over as the senior pastor of Lakewood Church. Under his leadership, the church has experienced significant growth, becoming one of the largest and most influential megachurches in the United States.
In addition to his pastoral duties, Joel is a best-selling author, with several books on Christian living and personal development. He is also a popular speaker and television personality, with a large following both in the United States and around the world.
Career
Joel Osteen: A Televangelist and Megachurch Pastor
Joel Osteen inherited the Lakewood Church and its television ministry from his father, John Osteen, a Southern Baptist pastor. He played an active role in the church from a young age and helped his father produce televised sermons for 17 years. In January 1999, his father died of a heart attack, and Joel took over as the senior pastor and televangelist, despite having little formal religious training.
Expansion of Lakewood Church and Television Ministry
Under Joel’s leadership, Lakewood Church has grown to become one of the largest and most influential megachurches in the United States, welcoming more than 50,000 parishioners every week. In 2003, Lakewood acquired the Compaq Center, the former home of the NBA Houston Rockets basketball team, for over $105 million. The renovation of the building took 15 months and included a grand opening attended by 56,000 people, including famous guests such as Governor of Texas Rick Perry and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.
Joel also expanded the church’s television ministry, and by 2008, the weekly service TV stream was being viewed in more than 100 countries. As of now, the Lakewood Church broadcast can be seen in 100 different countries. Joel’s weekly TV sermons are viewed by an average of 7 million people per week and 20 million per month.
Recognition and Influential Figures
Joel’s popularity as a televangelist and pastor has garnered him recognition and invitations from influential figures. In 2006, he made it onto Barbara Walters’s list of 10 Most Fascinating People. In 2010, he and his family were invited to attend the Easter breakfast hosted by President Barack Obama at the White House.
Preaching Style and Focus
Joel has honed his preaching skills under his father’s guidance, memorizing his speeches and listening back to himself on tape. He focuses on teaching biblical principles in a simple and straightforward way, emphasizing the power of love and a positive attitude. His approach has resonated with many, making him a popular figure in the Christian community.
Joel Osteen’s Bestselling Books and Inspirational Tours
In 2004, Joel Osteen released his first book, “Your Best Life Now,” which was marketed as a positive-thinking guide to living life to the fullest. It debuted at the top of the New York Times Best Seller list and remained there for an astonishing 200 weeks. The book’s success, along with Joel’s inspiring sermons, has allowed him to take his message on the road, selling out sports arenas around the world.
Following the success of his first book, Joel published his second book, “Become A Better You,” in 2005. This book sold over 4 million copies and reportedly earned the pastor more than $13 million in advances and royalties. In support of his book, Joel embarked on a 15-city U.S. tour in 2005, preaching to large crowds at each stop. Over the course of his career, he has written a total of 15 books.
Inspirational Tours
Joel’s success as an author has allowed him to extend his message of positivity and hope to live audiences around the world. He has embarked on several inspirational tours, preaching to packed arenas and stadiums. His 2005 book tour was a massive success, drawing large crowds at each stop.
Joel’s live events feature music, prayer, and motivational speeches aimed at encouraging his audiences to live their lives to the fullest. He has been praised for his ability to inspire and uplift, and his positive message has resonated with people from all walks of life.
In 2012, Joel’s “A Night of Hope” tour took him to several cities in the United States, drawing thousands of attendees at each stop. He has also brought his message to international audiences, with tours in Australia, Canada, and Europe.
Joel’s inspirational tours have helped him connect with audiences on a personal level, and his message of positivity and hope has inspired millions around the world.
Joel Osteen’s Personal Life
Joel Osteen Wife
On April 4, 1987, Joel Osteen married Victoria Osteen, who would later become the co-pastor of Lakewood Church alongside him. The couple has two children, a son, and a daughter.
Joel Osteen Kids
Joel Osteen has two children with his wife, Victoria Osteen: Jonathan and Alexandra.
Joel Osteen Son
Jonathan Osteen is the eldest child of Joel and Victoria Osteen. He was born in 1990. Jonathan is a musician and singer-songwriter. He has released several albums and singles. He is also a worship leader at Lakewood Church.
Joel Osteen Daughter
Alexandra Osteen is the youngest child of Joel and Victoria Osteen. She was born in 1995. Alexandra is a writer and artist. She has published several books and articles. She is also a singer-songwriter. She is a worship leader at Lakewood Church.
Family Involvement in Ministry
In 2002, Osteen’s older siblings, Paul, Lisa, and Tamara, as well as his younger sister, April, were involved in full-time ministry. His half-brother Justin was also doing missionary work at that time.
Both Jonathan and Alexandra are active in their father’s ministry. They often appear on his television show and at his church services. They are also involved in several charitable organizations.
Joel and Victoria Osteen are proud of their children and are grateful for the blessings they have brought into their lives. They believe that their children are destined for great things.
Residence and Income
Osteen and his family reside in a 17,000-square-foot mansion in River Oaks, which is estimated to be worth $10.5 million. However, the pastor states that he draws no salary from the church, which has an annual budget of $70 million. He relies on income from book sales instead.
Joel Osteen and Hurricane Harvey Controversy
In August 2017, Osteen faced extreme criticism for initially not opening Lakewood Church as an emergency shelter in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. The church, a former basketball arena, spans over 600,000 square feet, and many felt it should have been used to help those affected by the hurricane.
Initially, the church claimed that it was not available as a shelter due to severe flooding. However, Osteen later stated that the church had never been closed. Following the backlash, Lakewood Church announced on the night of August 28th that it would open as a shelter for victims and emergency personnel at noon the next day.
Lakewood Church’s Assistance and Recognition
Despite the controversy, a year later, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner recognized Osteen and Lakewood Church for their assistance in revamping efforts following Hurricane Harvey. The mayor proclaimed a day in their honor, stating that the church had provided aid to more than 1,150 Houston families and donated $1.1 million for rebuilding materials. Additionally, 2,500 volunteers from the congregation were put up for the cause.
Personal Wealth and Salary
Joel Osteen’s total revenue reportedly exceeds $70 million per year, thanks to book sales, a radio show, public speaking fees, and church collections. When asked about his substantial income, Osteen believes owning material wealth should not make one feel guilty. Instead, he motivates people to thank and praise God for their prosperity. Notably, he claims to draw no salary from the church.
Joel Osteen Mansion
Critics of social media often highlight that Joel Osteen, together with his wife Victoria Osteen, and their children, reside in a vast mansion spanning 17,000 square feet in the suburbs of Houston. In 2010, the Osteens reportedly purchased the home for $10.5 million, and according to Zillow, it is currently valued at around $14-$16 million. Additionally, they still own a former Houston residence with an estimated worth of $3 million.
This is Joel Osteen's $10.5 million home
— Brown Eyed Susan🟧🟦 (@smc429) August 7, 2022
He and his wife also own a $2.9 million mansion in Houston.
Joel Osteen received $4.4 million in PPP loans
Why doesn't Joel Osteen have to pay taxes? pic.twitter.com/sCqaiRGE2c
Joel Osteen Car Collection
Does Joel Osteen Own a $325,000 Ferrari?
There have been rumors circulating about Joel Osteen’s car collection, particularly regarding the supposed ownership of a $325,000 Ferrari 458 Italia. However, these rumors are baseless and lack credible evidence. The photograph often shared as proof of Osteen’s Ferrari ownership actually depicts a different car altogether.
In truth, Joel Osteen has stated that he does not possess a car collection, let alone a Ferrari. He has emphasized the importance of humility and using his resources to help others rather than indulging in luxury items. Osteen has expressed a desire not to be seen as a show-off and has chosen to live a more modest lifestyle.
The only car known to be owned by Joel Osteen is a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a luxury sedan known for its comfort and performance. This vehicle is not extravagant or flashy but suits his practical needs. While it’s possible that Osteen may own other vehicles, he has not publicly disclosed or discussed them.
In July 2021, images surfaced on social media purportedly showing Osteen’s Ferrari. However, reputable news outlets have since abandoned their initial reports, and there is no verified evidence to support the claim. Osteen’s reported net worth is significant, and it’s plausible that he may have acquired luxury cars. However, until verified information emerges, the notion of him owning a $325,000 Ferrari remains unverified and should be regarded as speculation.
Joel Osteen’s focus remains on his ministry, delivering sermons, and helping others rather than showcasing a lavish car collection.
Political and Social views
Joel Osteen typically avoids addressing controversial topics such as politics, abortion, and gay marriage in his sermons. Although he has expressed his personal view that homosexuality is “not God’s best,” he believes that the church should not overly focus on this issue to the detriment of others. When asked if he believes that God approves of homosexuality, he responded that, according to his interpretation of Scripture, it is considered a sin.
However, he maintains that gay individuals are welcome to attend his church without judgment. In a 2008 interview on Fox News during the Republican Party presidential primary race, Osteen acknowledged that he had not studied the Mormon religion, but stated his belief that Mormons are Christians. Furthermore, in 2011, Osteen voiced his support for Israel in an interview.
Joel Osteen Social Media Accounts
Followers Count As of 21 June 2023
| Almost 5.1M Followers | Click here | |
| Almost 10.1M Followers | Click here | |
| Almost 25M Followers | Click here | |
| YouTube | Almost 3.11M Subscribes | Click here |
| N/A | Click here | |
| N/A | Click here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Answer: Joel Osteen was born on March 5, 1963, which makes him 60 years old as of today (April 16, 2023).
Answer: Joel Osteen’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million, although the exact figure is not publicly available.
Answer: Joel Osteen is 5 ft 11 in (1.82 m) tall.
Answer: Joel Osteen lives in Houston, Texas, where he was born and raised. He is the pastor of Lakewood Church, which is located in the former Compaq Center in Houston.
Answer: Joel Osteen has made his money primarily through his career as a writer, televangelist, and pastor. He has authored several best-selling books, including “Your Best Life Now,” which has sold millions of copies worldwide. He has also made money through speaking engagements and endorsements.
Answer: The exact amount of money that Joel Osteen gives to charity is not publicly available. However, it is well known that Joel Osteen is involved in charitable work, and his church, Lakewood Church, has donated $1.1 million of dollars to various charitable causes over the years
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