New Book Details the History of Joel Osteen And Lakewood Church

In late 2004, upon the release of his best-selling book, Your Best Life Now, Joel Osteen and Lakewood Church were put in the media spotlight like no other Christian figure or ministry had ever been before. Almost overnight, a man, a church, and a family became household names all across the country. Now, two years later, author Richard Young shares the history and ministry of the Osteen Family in his January 2007 release, The Rise of Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen.

The book shares story upon story of how faith put into action produces results that only God can take credit for. From a profession as a Fort Worth, Texas, popcorn salesman to a preacher of what would one day become one of the largest churches in America, John Osteen (Joel’s father) exemplified an unshakeable faith that catapulted Lakewood’s ministry to levels that he would unfortunately not live to witness.

Joel Osteen would immediately fill his fathers shoes, expanding a ministry that had already been founded on solid ground. In The Rise of Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen, readers will see how Joel’s experience in television prepared him for a lifetime of ministry, a best-selling book, and a church that is now considered to be the fifth most influential church in the United States.

The Rise of Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen not only shares on the ministry of the Osteens but also delves into the unexplainable, supernatural stories of protection and healing experienced by members of the Osteen family. Powerful accounts of how God healed John’s wife, Dodie, of cancer of the liver and his sister Mary of epilepsy prove to readers that God still does miracles and honors the prayers of His people.

Richard Young is a former educator, businessman, and pastor. He has been a writer for over twenty years, having written two textbooks, corporate training manuals, and collegiate self-study courses.