JCM: Who most influenced your approach or style
of ministry?

Joel: My father (John Osteen) and Reverend Billy
Graham are the two biggest inspirations in my life.
They are both known for having large and successful
ministries, but more importantly, for the integrity with
which they led their ministries. It is my lifetime goal to
have a ministry that is characterized by success
and integrity.

JCM: What are the similarities and differences be-
tween yours and your fathers approach to ministry?

Joel: My father was very spirited and energetic. He got
excited on the platform. My personality is much more
reserved. However, our missions are the same; to reach
as many people as possible with the good news
of Jesus Christ.

JCM: It is obvious that your message (whether from
the pulpit or in books) has great mass appeal, crossing
gender, age, cultural and ethnic boundaries. To what
do you owe your great success?

Joel: When I first began preaching, I quickly learned to
just be myself. I am naturally optimistic and truly believe
that if I allow God to direct my life, he’ll do a much better
job than I will. Not only does the Bible tell me that, but it
has been my experience with God as well. And, that is
what I preach about each week. Apparently, many people
agree with it regardless of their race, gender, age
or social standing.

JCM: Your TV audience is vast, you're reaching
people who don't normally go to church, what about
your message appeals to them?

Joel: For those who have never gone to church or,
perhaps, haven’t been to church in a long time, I think my
message which emphasizes God’s goodness and love
for His people allows them to accept redemption. God’s
redemption is a free gift to us, paid for by Jesus Christ.
Yet, all of my life I have heard people say that they did not
think God could forgive them because of all their mistakes.
I’ve discovered so many people who can’t forgive them-
selves for something they’ve done, and therefore, they
believe that God won’t forgive them either. When they
realize that God will indeed forgive them and desires to
love them, it changes everything for them.
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